Listening to Young People and Shaping Future Supports
Laois Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB), in partnership with Offaly Local Development Company (OLDC), was proud to launch new research exploring youth literacy in Laois and Offaly. The research, titled “You Just Stop Trying”, provides an important insight into the literacy experiences of young people aged 12–17 across the region.
This collaborative project was supported through the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), co-funded by the Irish Government and the European Social Fund Plus, alongside Adult Literacy funding from the Government of Ireland and the European Union.
The research was led by Dr. Katie Chapple and brings together the voices of young people, parents, and practitioners to better understand literacy challenges and identify opportunities for improvement.
Why Youth Literacy Matters
Literacy is a fundamental life skill that underpins education, employment, wellbeing, and participation in society.
The research highlights that while literacy is widely recognised as critical to confidence and independence, many young people continue to face significant barriers, including:
- Delays in identifying literacy needs
- Inconsistent access to supports
- The emotional impact of struggling with literacy
The findings also show the importance of early intervention, accessible supports, and coordinated responses across schools, youth services, and communities.
A Research Approach Grounded in Lived Experience
At the heart of this research are the voices of young people. Through focus groups, surveys, and consultations, learners shared their lived experiences of literacy in school, at home, and in their communities.
Their insights highlight the importance of:
- Supportive relationships and trusted adults
- Small group and one-to-one learning
- Practical, real-life approaches to literacy
- Safe, inclusive environments that build confidence
The research also recognises the vital role of youth work and alternative education settings, which often provide flexible, person-centred supports for those who may struggle in mainstream education.
Working Together to Make a Difference
A key message from the research is the need for strong collaboration. Improving literacy outcomes requires coordinated action across education, youth services, families, and community organisations.
Recommendations include:
- Expanding targeted and individualised literacy supports
- Strengthening family and community engagement
- Improving access to affordable and local services
- Supporting practitioner training and development
- Enhancing multi-agency collaboration and referral pathways
These findings provide a clear roadmap for developing inclusive, accessible, and responsive literacy supports across Laois and Offaly.
Voices from the Partnership
Eileen Dunne, FET Inclusion Manager, LOETB:
“LOETB are delighted to have played a role in this research which captures the experiences of young people in relation to literacy and education. We look forward to working collaboratively with agencies and partners to respond in a meaningful way.”
Tamara Latham, Regional Literacy Coordinator, LOETB:
“This research reflects what we hear every day from young people and practitioners. By listening to their experiences, we can build supports that are practical, inclusive and truly meet their needs.”
Louise Larkin, Social Inclusion Team Leader, OLDC:
“This research now presents us with real opportunity to work together for change. It’s really important that we grab the opportunity, listen to the needs of young people, and turn these findings into meaningful action that improves literacy outcomes for every child and young person in our region.”
Looking Ahead
This research marks an important step in strengthening youth literacy supports locally. It provides a strong evidence base to inform future programmes, policy, and collaboration across Laois and Offaly.
Partners are committed to building on these findings to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to develop the literacy skills they need to succeed in education, work, and life.
For Further Information
To request a copy of the research summary report or further information, please contact:
Louise Larkin,
Offaly Local Development Company,
Ríomhphost: [email protected]
Tamara Latham,
Bord Oideachais agus Oiliúna Laoise agus Uíbh Fhailí,
Ríomhphost: [email protected]
Alternatively, download a copy of the Youth Literacy Research Summary Document
