What is Children First?

Children First promotes the protection of children from abuse and neglect. It recognises that parents and guardians have the primary responsibility for the care and protection of their children. However, at times they may need support and assistance from the state in carrying out their responsibilities as a parent.

Children First explains what child abuse is, how to recognise it and how to report concerns about a child to Tusla or to An Garda Síochána.

It also sets out what organisations need to do to keep children safe.

Society has a duty of care towards children, and everyone should be alert to the possibility that children they are in contact with may be abused or at risk of abuse or neglect. If you are concerned about a child, you should contact Tusla. Certain people, many of whom are professionals, also have a legal obligation to report concerns to Tusla.

All organisations providing services or activities to children and young people should have child safeguarding policies and procedures in place to protect them from harm and promote their welfare. Most organisations will also have specific legal obligations, including a requirement to have a Child Safeguarding Statement in place.

Organisations should share their Child Safeguarding Statement, policy and procedures with parents and children and enable parents and children to ask questions about how children are safeguarded while in the organisation.

The Children First Act 2015 places a number of statutory obligations on certain people (for example, teachers, childcare professionals, nurses, or physiotherapists) and on particular organisations providing services to children and young people.

Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children sets out non-statutory best practice for all persons coming into contact with children and young people. It also describes the legal obligations under the Children First Act.

See more information on Children First Legislation and Guidance.