The Garda Youth Diversion Programme is provided for in the Childrens Act 2001. The Garda Diversion Programme is supported by a network of Garda Youth Diversion Projects (GYDPs).  
 
GYDPs are community-based multi-agency crime prevention initiatives, which seek to divert young people who have become involved in crime/anti-social behaviour and to support wider preventative work within the community and with families at risk. There are currently 105 GYDPs state-wide, and a further 10 projects with a special focus (e.g. more challenging children, family support, etc.).