Course supported by Cillian Murphy teaches young people empathy and 'builds solidarity'

The Activating Social Empathy programme teaches post-primary children the value of connecting emotionally to the experience of others. Supported by actor Cillian Murphy, research shows the 12-week course leads to significant awareness among the young participants 

Pupils of Douglas Community School, Cork who are taking part in the Activating Social Empathy programme (supported by Cillian Murphy) . Included are teachers, Claire Moylan and Niamh Craig with first year students Ethan O'Leary, Odhrán Brennan and Seoirse Norris. Picture Dan Linehan

Seoirse Norris started secondary school last September and already he knows that stepping into other people’s shoes means you see things from their point of view.

“If you don’t do that, you might only see from your own point of view — or you could act on a stereotype and assume things about the person,” says Seoirse, a first year at Douglas Community School, Cork.