Support for children, young people and families

Childhood Matters provides services for children, young people, young adults and families at different stages of their lives.

Our work ranges from early parenting and family support to specialist therapeutic services, education, employment and preparation for independent living

I know which service Help me find the right information
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Five areas of support

Children, young people and families may need different kinds of support at different times. Our Connected Model brings our work together around five core areas.

These are not individual services or departments. They describe what our services work together to achieve.

Family Preservation & Early Intervention

Helping parents and families respond to difficulties early, strengthen relationships and create safer, more stable family lives.

Care Stabilisation & Support

Supporting children and young people in care, and the families and carers around them, to create greater safety and stability.‎

Therapeutic Recovery & Repair

Helping children, young people and families understand and recover from trauma, adversity and difficult experiences.

Long-term Wellbeing & Outcomes

Supporting young people to build confidence, continue their education, develop practical skills and prepare for adulthood.

Early Childhood Development

Providing safe, nurturing early learning and care where young children can play, learn, develop and feel that they belong.

Learn more about our Connected Model

A Connected Model of Support

Not sure where to begin?

You do not need to understand every Childhood Matters service before taking the next step. Choose the information that best describes your situation.

Children and young adults

Find out what to expect if you have been referred to Childhood Matters or are coming to one of our services.

Information for children and young adults

Parents and families

Find information about our services, referrals and what may happen after your child or family is referred.
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Information for parents and families

Professionals

Find service information, eligibility details and referral guidance for social workers, healthcare professionals, educators and other referring professionals

Information for professionals

How are referrals made?

Most Childhood Matters services are accessed through a professional or partner agency. This could include a social worker, healthcare professional, school or another service already supporting the child, young person or family.

Eligibility and referral arrangements differ between services. The relevant details are provided on each service page.

Working in Partnership

Supporting children is never the responsibility of one organisation alone. We work closely with government departments, statutory agencies, education providers, healthcare services, universities, community organisations and funding partners to strengthen outcomes for children and families.

Tusla
Dept Justice Home Affairs
Department of social protection
Government of Ireland
HSE
Cork City Council
Pobal
European Union
Sexual Health

Still unsure which information you need?

You can explore the pathway most relevant to you or contact Childhood Matters for more information.