Media Statement: HIQA overview report of the inspection and regulation of children’s services in 2021

In response to the HIQA overview report of the inspection and regulation of children’s services in 2021, Marissa Ryan, CEO of EPIC – Empowering People in Care said:

“When it comes to the care and protection of children and young people, we should always aspire to do better: to aim for and achieve the highest standards, and work to improve the governance, policy and practice that impacts their lives and wellbeing.

Issues flagged by HIQA, including the need for less changes in social workers, increased contact between children and families and their social workers, as well as the need for improvements in the planning and delivery of aftercare supports – are also evidenced in EPIC’s Advocacy Service.

Of growing concern for EPIC are the delays in finding appropriate care placements, as well as shifting demographics in the age profile of children being placed in residential care or emergency care, and the complexity of needs amongst this cohort.

Tusla are committed to improving their services, but they must be adequately financed and resourced to meet the needs of the children in their care.

With Budget 23 upcoming, we urge the Government to ensure that the lives and wellbeing of children in the care of the state are prioritised. TUSLA must be properly resourced to deliver its services, including through additional measures to recruit, retain and support social workers and foster carers and families. We also believe the Department of Health must step up its responsibility to children in care, particularly by increasing the provision of early therapeutic interventions for children in care, as well as timely and effective disability services.”