On this International Youth Day, In4Kids, Ireland’s national paediatric clinical trials network, hosted at the INFANT Research Centre in  University College Cork,  is shining a light on the essential role that young people play in shaping the future of healthcare. Observed globally on August 12th, the day celebrates young people’s engagement as a driving force behind more inclusive, equitable, and forward-thinking communities—and, in the case of In4Kids, more effective and patient-centred research.

A core part of this commitment is the National Young Persons’ Advisory Group (YPAG), an initiative co-developed by In4Kids and the Children’s Health Ireland Clinical Research Centre (CHI-CRC), with support from the Health Research Board. The YPAG empowers young people aged 12–18 to contribute directly to the planning and design of paediatric clinical trials, research studies and healthcare innovation projects from across Ireland.

Through the YPAG, young people collaborate with clinicians and researchers to offer feedback that helps make studies more relevant ethical, and reflective of young patients’ real-world experiences. Their insights help guide research that is not only scientifically robust but also shaped by those it aims to serve.

Elevating Young People’s Participation in Research

Since its launch in August 2024, the YPAG has grown into a vibrant and diverse group of over 30 members from all over the country. The group has met in person in Dublin and Cork and continues to hold regular online meetings, ensuring that young people from different regions and backgrounds have flexible, meaningful opportunities to engage.

YPAG members have contributed to several research projects already, in collaboration with hospitals, and academic partners nationwide. Whether reviewing study materials, advising on recruitment strategies, improving methodology or helping to shape project priorities, the group is actively improving how paediatric research is performed and implemented in Ireland and making it more relevant for children and young people.

Children must have the same access to high quality, evidence-based medication and health care services as adults

This principle lies at the heart of In4Kids activities and the YPAG’s continued achievements and growth will ensure this becomes standard across the healthcare landscape. By involving young people at every stage of the research journey, In4Kids alongside CHI-CRC, is building a more responsive clinical research environment where the needs and voices of children and adolescents are placed front and centre.

As we mark International Youth Day, In4Kids celebrates the passion, insight, and leadership of these young contributors. Their involvement is helping to ensure that paediatric research in Ireland is more inclusive, impactful, and attuned to the needs of its youngest patients.

To learn more about the National YPAG or how to get involved, please contact in4kids@ucc.ie