In early 2025, the National Young Persons’ Advisory Group (YPAG) was established with a simple idea: young people should not just take part in research, they should help shape it.
Led by In4Kids and the Children’s Health Ireland Clinical Research Centre (CHI-CRC), YPAG brings together young people from across Ireland to work alongside researchers and healthcare teams, ensuring that child health research reflects their voices, experiences and priorities.
One year on, the group has grown into a community of over 25 young people aged 12–18, contributing meaningfully to research across a range of health areas.
A shared commitment to better research
At In4kids prioritising Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) is at the very heart of everything we do. We believe the voices of young people and their families are crucial in shaping research and clinical trials and making it truly meaningful. That’s why we established this group.
Through collaboration with YPAG, researchers across Ireland are able to bring the perspectives of young people into their work early, helping to ensure that studies are relevant, accessible and focused on outcomes that matter in real life.
What YPAG has achieved in its first year
Over the past year, YPAG members have taken part in training on clinical trials, consent and research design. They have worked closely with researchers across national networks and contributed to projects aimed at improving health outcomes for children and young people.
Their role goes far beyond learning.
YPAG members have:
- contributed to the co-design of the Children’s Health Research Charter
- reviewed research materials and lay summaries for national grant applications
- helped shape how research information is communicated to young people, including video resources
- shared insights on topics such as adolescent health and social media use
- represented the voice of young people at national research events and discussions
These contributions highlight the value of involving the right voices at the right time.
Building skills and shaping the future
Alongside their impact on research, YPAG members are also gaining valuable experience. Participation helps build confidence, develop new skills and opens opportunities for future involvement in healthcare and research.
At the same time, researchers benefit from practical insights that help strengthen study design, improve recruitment and ensure research is grounded in lived experience.
Looking ahead
As YPAG marks its first year, new projects are already underway in areas including mental health, vaping cessation and quality of life research.
The group continues to grow and welcomes new members aged 12–18 who are interested in having a voice in research.
Get involved
If you would like to learn more about YPAG, or about Patient and Public Involvement opportunities within the in4kids Network, we would love to hear from you.
Contact our YPAG Facilitators: Caoimhe Byrne, CByrne@ucc.ie or Sharon Rafferty, sharon.rafferty@childrenshealthireland.ie