Children First National Guidance launched

New guidance has been launched to promote the protection of children from abuse and neglect.

Launched by Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Frances Fitzgerald, Children First National Guidance 2011 outlines what organisations need to do to keep children safe and what to do if you are concerned about a child’s safety and welfare.

Multi-disciplinary, inter-agency working and information sharing in the management of concerns about children’s safety and welfare are highlighted as examples of best practice.

In addition, the National Office for Children and Families will launch a Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook in September to assist those dealing with child protection and welfare cases.

Gordon Jeyes, National Director, Children and Family Services, HSE, said: "This guidance will allow the vital and challenging work of frontline staff to be applied in an accountable, consistent and transparent manner.”