Raising The Flags For ITAV

The wrist factor…

atest press release from It Takes A Village, issued on Sunday, June 14th 2026…

Hundreds of children, parents, teachers, community leaders, local organisations and sporting personalities will gather at Greystones United Archfield (aka The Bog) on Tuesday, June 16th at 9.30am, as It Takes A Village marks another major milestone in its mission to support the wellbeing of children and young people across Greystones and Delgany.

At the centre of the celebration will be the presentation of official It Takes A Village flags to every primary and secondary school in the area, recognising their commitment to a community-wide movement focused on children’s wellbeing, online safety, resilience and positive engagement.

The event will also outline the next phase of ITAV’s ambitious three-year framework, including the expansion of its work across secondary schools, the introduction of peer-to-peer mentoring programmes and the launch of a new Online Safety Ambassador initiative for local primary schools. This is empowering children to become leaders and role models for their peers is central to creating lasting behavioural change.

Children and families attending the event will hear from the play therapists who will begin working across participating primary schools from September 2026, representing a significant step forward in providing early intervention and wellbeing supports within school communities.

The day will feature contributions from a range of high-profile guests and role models, including Alan Quinlan, Síofra Lawless, The Happy Pear, Sean Gallagher, Senator Aubrey McCarthy, Sophie Morris and the Wicklow Rose Carolann McDonald, all sharing positive messages with local children and families.

Speaking ahead of the event, Rachel Harper, Principal of St Patrick’s National School, said: “What began as a conversation between local schools about the challenges facing our children has grown into a truly community-wide movement. Today’s flag presentations symbolise a shared commitment from schools, families, sports clubs, businesses and community organisations to work together for the wellbeing of our young people.

“As we look ahead, our focus remains on empowering children, giving them a voice, providing practical supports and creating opportunities for positive connections both online and offline. We are excited to be taking the next steps in our journey and sharing our model with communities beyond Greystones and Delgany.”

The event will also celebrate the importance of healthy, active lifestyles through the launch of the local Primary Schools Football Blitz, taking place immediately afterwards. The initiative aims to encourage children to spend more time engaging with friends, sport and community activities while highlighting the opportunities and enjoyment that exist away from screens.

Since its launch in 2023, It Takes A Village has brought together schools, parents, health professionals, community organisations and local businesses in a coordinated effort to support children navigating the challenges of modern childhood. Tuesday’s event marks another important step in building a sustainable framework that places children, education and community at its heart.

You can find out more about It Takes A Village here agus here, and follow on Instagram here.