Tusla – Child and Family Agency recently marked the International Day of Families with an event in Tallaght Library that showcased the significant advances that have been made locally in family support services, and the commendable family support work of a number of local organisations. It was part of Tusla National Child and Family Support Week. The event was a collaborative effort between Tusla, Child and Family Support Network, and the Drugs Task Force to celebrate collaboration and family support on the International Day of Families. The morning provided an opportunity for both families and professionals to learn about the support services which are available to them locally. Topics covered included cyber-safety tips for children, from CyberSafeIreland, assisting families who suffer from drug addiction, from JADD (Jobstown Assisting Drug Dependency), and the use of Meitheal, Tusla’s national early intervention practice model, to support children and families facing difficulties and helping them work towards positive outcomes.
Caroline Sheehan, Senior PPFS (Prevention, Partnership and Family Support) manager for Dublin South West/Kildare/West Wicklow, Tusla, commented, “In Dublin South West, Kildare and West Wicklow, we believe in the power of community. We know that when we work together, we can all help to build brighter futures for our children.” Caroline continued, “While preparing for National Child and Family Support Week, I was so struck by the strength of the relationships that have been built between Tusla, services in the community, and some of the parents and young people who have availed of these supports. It is very clear that everyone involved is committed to working together to build brighter futures for the kids in our area. By investing in our communities and partner agencies, I can see we are truly investing in brighter futures for the children in our area.”
Family support organisations that were represented at the event included:
- KICK (Kickboxing to Inspire & Challenge Kids) – An award-winning programme that aims to improve teenagers physical and mental health by combining challenging youth work activities and kickboxing techniques. KICK is a non-profit organisation working to tackle poverty and social exclusion in the South Dublin County area.
- WASP – Dedicated to working with all members of the family to re build self-awareness, self-esteem, building on family strengths and helping them to regain a sense of wellbeing and self-worth.
- JADD (Jobstown Assisting Drug Dependency) – Empowering service users who wish to return to a drug-free lifestyle by providing a range of services free of charge, designed to support families with addiction problems.
- SWAN – SWAN family support centre provides much-needed support to children and family members affected by drug and alcohol misuse. SWAN offers a number of supports, counselling, holistic therapies and services to the local community of Tallaght West, Dublin.
- CyberSafeIreland – A not-for-profit organisation that works to empower children, parents and teachers to navigate the online world in a safe and responsible manner.
- Barnardos – Barnardos works with and supports vulnerable children and their families.
- Foroige – Foroige works with young people to help them shape the world around them while developing their talents, skills and abilities.
- YoDA (Youth Drug and Alcohol Service) – Providing assistance and treatment to under 18’s who are having problems related to their drug or alcohol use.
- National Family Support Network – Supporting the development of family support groups and networks throughout the island of Ireland.
For more information visit https://www.tusla.ie.
