CDI Awarded €40,000 Grant from RTÉ Toy Show Appeal  

Nova Project Secures €40,000 Grant from RTÉ Toy Show Appeal

Boost for Youth Mental Health in Tallaght

We proudly announce a significant boost to our Nova Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing project. We’ve been awarded a €40,000 grant from the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal, distributed through Community Foundation Ireland. This funding will help us continue our vital work supporting children and young people in Tallaght, Dublin 24.

Tackling Post-Covid Challenges in Education

Nova, launched in 2020/2021, is CDI’s innovative response to the rising challenge of emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA). In its second year of implementation, the programme supports over 700 students across nine primary and secondary schools in Dublin 24.

“We’ve seen a sharp increase in EBSA cases since the pandemic,” explains Marian Quinn, CEO of CDI. “This funding allows us to expand our support for children who struggle with school attendance due to emotional factors, ensuring they don’t miss out on crucial learning and development opportunities.”

Expanding Support and Resources

The grant will enable Nova to:

• Continue delivering the evidence-based FRIENDS programme in all nine participating schools
• Provide funding for respite and therapeutic supports
• Offer assessments for children, young people, and their families engaged with Nova
• Upscale certain areas of support beyond initial plans

Making a Difference: A School’s Perspective

Tomás Hayes, Principal of St. Aidan’s Senior National School in Tallaght, has seen firsthand the benefits of Nova’s work. He shares:
“This year, we introduced Meitheal interventions and Friends for Life programmes through Nova. The grant has been instrumental in reshaping our approach to attendance issues. It’s funded therapeutic measures, parental training, new routines, creche placements for younger siblings, and family networking opportunities.”

Looking Ahead: Nurturing Spaces for Emotional Growth

With this new funding, Nova aims to further develop initiatives like nurture rooms within schools. “These are safe spaces where children can freely express themselves,” Hayes explains. “It’s about addressing children’s needs effectively and preventing classroom exclusion caused by lack of coping skills.”

A Commitment to Tallaght’s Youth

CDI extends its heartfelt thanks to the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal and Community Foundation Ireland for their support. This grant will play a crucial role in our ongoing efforts to improve mental health outcomes for children and young people in Tallaght.

Find out more about Nova

Read the full Press Release