Individuals working alone with children and young people

Many solo practitioners provide valuable services to children either individually or working in partnership with another organisation.

If you are concerned that a child is being abused or neglected, you should report that concern to Tusla. The Children First National Guidance will help you to recognise the signs of abuse or neglect and will set out how you should report your concerns to Tusla.

If you are an adult working on your own providing a service to children and young people, you should ensure that your policies and procedures follow best practice outlined in Children First National Guidance.

See more information on safeguarding best practice policies and procedures.

Under the Children First Act 2015, certain people who work with children have additional legal obligations. These are known as Mandated Persons. It is your responsibility to determine if you are a mandated person in your current role.

An e-learning module has been developed to provide information on the role and responsibilities of mandated persons.

See more information about Mandated Persons and about the Mandated Persons Roles and Responsibilities e-learning module.

Everyone has a responsibility to keep children as safe as possible. If you are concerned that a child or young person may have been, is being, or is at risk of being abused or neglected, you should contact Tusla social work department.

See more information on how to make a report to Tusla.

In cases of emergency, where a child or young person appears to be at immediate and serious risk, contact An Garda Síochána.

The Introduction to Children First e-learning programme has been developed to support people of all backgrounds and experience in recognising and reporting concerns about child abuse and neglect. It also explains the role of mandated persons and the responsibilities of organisations working with children and young people.

See more information on the Introduction to Children First e-learning programme.