Youth Engagement and Participation Team

Hi, I’m Antoinette Clayton and I joined EPIC in January 2025 as Youth Engagement and Participation (YEP) Officer in Donegal. My role is to deliver a YEP programme to unaccompanied minors seeking international protection, and Ukrainian young people in receipt of temporary protection in the care system in Donegal. I support these children and young people to have their voices heard on issues related to the care system, help them to develop pathways to local services and activities, and support them to come together creatively and build a positive, supportive care community.

My career started working in residential care in Dublin, followed by five years as a Community Youth Worker in Donegal. Later, I worked for 15 years as a Co-Ordinator at Ballyshannon Youthreach.

Prior to joining EPIC, I worked teaching English as a second language to adults. My qualifications include a Bachelor of Social Science, a Masters in Social Work and CELTA.