Support services for families and parenting supports

These resources and organisations provide information, advice and support for children, parents and families.

For children and young people

Supporting children through family changes

The Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration has created child-friendly videos explaining separation, mediation and the family courts, for children aged 8 to 12. It includes supports for children, parents and families, and a printable version of the video series. Watch the videos on gov.ie.

A.S.S.C. – Accompaniment Support Service for Children

A.S.S.C. supports children and young people who are giving evidence or attending court proceedings. It provides court accompaniment, advocacy, and practical and emotional support. Visit the A.S.S.C. website.

Childline

Childline, run by the ISPCC, is a free, confidential listening service for children and young people up to the age of 18. It is available 24 hours a day by phone on 1800 66 66 66, and by online chat. Visit the Childline website.

Rainbows Ireland

Rainbows Ireland supports children and young people experiencing grief following bereavement, parental separation or family breakdown. Visit the Rainbows Ireland website.

For parents and families

Tusla

Tusla is the Child and Family Agency. It provides services to support the safety, wellbeing and welfare of children and families in Ireland. Visit the Tusla website.

One Family

One Family provides information, advice and support for people parenting alone, sharing parenting or going through separation. Visit the One Family website.

Treoir

Treoir provides free and confidential information for parents who are not married to each other, their children and the people supporting them. Visit the Treoir website.

Barnardos

Barnardos provides services and practical support for children, young people, parents and families. It also provides information and resources for people who work with children. Visit the Barnardos website.

Domestic abuse

Men’s Aid Ireland

Men’s Aid Ireland provides confidential information and support for men, their children and families experiencing domestic abuse or coercive control. Visit the Men’s Aid Ireland website.

For more organisations that help people experiencing domestic violence or abuse, see our Domestic violence and abuse support page.