Barnahus Ireland

Barnahus – meaning "Children’s House" in Icelandic – is a safe, welcoming space where children and their families receive support when there are concerns or disclosures of child sexual abuse. At Barnahus, professionals from child protection, law enforcement, healthcare, and therapeutic services work together under one roof to provide a coordinated, child-centred response.

The model, which began in Iceland and has since been adopted across Europe, ensures children are protected, supported, and empowered throughout their journey. It reduces the number of times a child has to recount their experience, minimising trauma and improving outcomes for both the child and the justice process.

An Ireland where every child affected by sexual abuse has timely access to care, protection, and justice – and where their rights to safety, recovery, and support are fully upheld.

To create a Barnahus where children are heard and supported; where their safety and wellbeing come first; and where families and professionals work together to ensure children’s needs are met and their voices guide every step of the process.