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Providing the information that parents of children subject to care proceedings need

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What is the Parental Advocacy & Information Service?

Barnardos Parental Advocacy & Information Service addresses parents of children subject to care proceedings. The aim of the Service is to help and support parents to actively participate in the child protection and legal process in an informed and supported way, by:

  • Providing the information that parents need to understand what is happening (in legal or child protection contexts) and what it means for them and their child.
  • Helping parents to understand their family’s situation and the next steps available to them.
  • Preparation for and support in attendance at meetings with Tusla and legal professionals.
  • Preparation for and accompaniment at court hearings.
  • Helping parents understand their rights and responsibilities.
  • Signposting or supporting parents to access therapeutic and other specialist services as required.
  • Empowering parents to participate, be heard, and be seen.

Referrals

Self Referral:

If you are a parent of a child subject to care proceedings and you live in one of the following catchment areas – Dublin North City, Wexford, or Waterford – you can fill out our self-referral form.

You can get in touch with our Information Provision & Communication Service should you need help filling out the form.

You can also self-refer via our Freephone number or monitored email address.

Third Party Referral:

If you know of a parent who may benefit from our service, and they live in one of the following catchment areas – Dublin North City, Wexford, or Waterford – you can fill out our third party referral form.

You can get in touch with our Information Provision & Communication Service should you need help filling out the form.

How can I access information?

The Information Provision & Communication Service is available nationwide.

This can be accessed via our Freephone number – 1800 333 355 – available Monday-Friday from 10am to 1pm.

You can also reach out via our monitored email at parent.advocacy@barnardos.ie