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The opening of the new Jigsaw Galway Hub coincided nicely with the scheduled Jigsaw Learning Network. This took place in the new premises on 12th and 13th April and provided a timely opportunity to focus the two-day event on the development and operation of a Jigsaw Hub.

John Fitzmaurice and his team led the group through a comprehensive analysis of Jigsaw Galway and explored how it has evolved and developed. The event included inputs from key partners, including HSE, Mental Health, Drugs Service, Primary Care, Youth and the Community Sector.

Discussions focused on building a successful Jigsaw model, the core components and principles, the role of partner agencies, organisations and services, and quality controls. This gave attendees an honest overview of a Jigsaw Hub in action - what works, what does not work and lessons to be learned.

Day two provided Headstrong staff with the opportunity to reinforce some of the key principles of Jigsaw and provide clarity and consistency in communication around the core elements and processes that are critical to the success of Jigsaw.

Speaking after the Jigsaw Learning Network, Emer Mulligan, Jigsaw Programme Director said “inputs from local partners who play a critical role in the success of the Hub by providing services for young people in a setting which works for them was particularly powerful” and she added “It’s great to see on a practical level the influence of young people in the creation and shaping of the new Galway Hub.”

The next Jigsaw Learning Network will take place in Kerry in July and we look forward to another stimulating event, while also seeing the developments first hand of another Jigsaw Hub.