Marked increase in Cork referrals to youth mental health charity  

Referrals to the Cork services of national youth mental health charity Jigsaw increased by more than 30% in the first half of 2026 when compared with the same period last year.

Jigsaw provides free early intervention mental health services to children and young people aged 12–25.

Inward referrals to the charity’s Cork service grew from 606 in the first six months of 2025 to 793 in the first half of this year.

New figures from Jigsaw show that inward referrals increased across Ireland.

Nationally, Jigsaw has provided 29,004 direct clinical contacts during the first six months of 2026.

Through a partnership with Jigsaw, retailer Applegreen helped raise vital funds and awareness for the charity’s work through its October Barcode campaign.

It gave Applegreen customers an opportunity to help support Jigsaw’s services, at a time when referrals are increasing across the country.

Jigsaw CEO Joseph Duffy, said: “These latest figures paint a clear picture of the increasing pressures facing young people across Ireland, with a nearly 39% rise in demand for our services during the first half of this year.

“Early intervention is crucial when a young person is struggling with challenges like anxiety, loneliness, or depression, and ensuring free, timely support is available in their local communities is more important than ever.

“We are incredibly grateful for Applegreen’s support through their October Barcode campaign and previous campaigns which has directly funded increased services and supports.”