Tusla launches new Child Safeguarding Statement
Statement sets out how Tusla protects children and will be publicly available in every Tusla building around the country
Tusla – Child and Family Agency today launched its Child Safeguarding Statement, a new requirement for organisations working with children and families under the Children First Act 2015 which was commenced by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone, in December. The Statement sets out how Tusla protects children who engage with its services and it will be displayed publicly in every Tusla building and office around the country for children, families and members of the public.
Under the Children First Act 2015, all organisations working with children and families and classed as ‘relevant services’ must have a Child Safeguarding Statement in place by 11th March 2018. Tusla has developed a number of information booklets to help organisations develop their Child Safeguarding Statement, including:
- Guidance on Developing a Child Safeguarding Statement
- Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice
- A sample template for organisations creating a Child Safeguarding Statement
Speaking today, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone, said “Ensuring the safety and protection of our children is a huge responsibility, and one in which we all have a role to play. Two months ago as Minister I directed that the remaining provisions of Children First should come into force. It started with mandatory reporting which is now a reality. In addition every group and organisation working with children has been given until 11th March next to publish a Child Safeguarding Statement. I welcome Tusla is showing leadership in this regard by acting ahead of the deadline and giving a commitment that its statement will be accessible at every one of its offices and locations. It is a template which others would do well to follow.”
Fred McBride, Chief Executive, Tusla – Child and Family Agency, said “We are delighted to launch our new Child Safeguarding Statement today. Any visitor to a Tusla building, including children and families with whom we work, can ask to view our Child Safeguarding Statement.
“It demonstrates Tusla’s commitment to Children First and to safeguarding children who engage with our services. The Statement builds on work we are currently undertaking to improve our services, including our new Child Protection and Welfare Strategy, our prioritisation of early intervention and working in partnership with families, and Tusla’s new national approach to practice, the Signs of Safety.”
Read Tusla's Child Safeguarding Statement here.