Greater Shantallow Community Arts has launched YouthStart, a new programme offering free weekly sessions for young people aged 9-18 in Galliagh.

The initiative is supported by the Education Authority’s Local Area Youth Provision and has created three new youth work roles.

Sessions run at Studio 2, St Pio Parish Centre and St Brigid’s College, with separate timetables for junior and senior age groups.

Junior participants aged 9-13 attend on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4.30pm to 6.30pm, Fridays from 4.30pm to 6.30pm and Saturdays from 9.30am to 10.30am.

Senior participants aged 14-18 attend Mondays to Wednesdays and Fridays from 7pm to 9pm, with a longer Saturday session from 9am to 1.30pm.

Activities include creative workshops, games nights, group work, youth-led projects, volunteering and drop-in social spaces.

Artistic Director Ollie Green said the programme aims to create opportunities where young people feel connected, supported and inspired. Youth and Development Manager Aislinn Breslin said every participant should feel they belong, have a voice and can grow in confidence.