Critical Conversations. Narratives of youth work practice in austerity Ireland

This paper presents findings from an ongoing study into the impact of austerity on youth work Ireland. The paper discusses the impact of austerity on youth work identity, youth work practice, the relationship between youth work and the State and the emergence of the Irish Youth Workers Association. The findings highlight that austerity is having a significant and indeed detrimental impact on youth work identity and practice in Ireland. At a national level there is a tension between institutional recognition and the cumulative impact of disproportionate cuts which limit the ability of the sector to offer quality youth work practice. The findings offer an insight into the structural and psychological impact of austerity at the level of practice. This is a story of youth work trying to do more with less resources. Also the findings present grounds for optimism as youth work is shown to be resistant in the face of an austerity programme that is challenging its identity and legitimacy.