This article is from page 22 of the 2008-05-06 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 22 JPG
A NEW handbook encourages fami- lies to continue their involvement with children in care.
The Family Advocacy services in Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary have developed a handbook for fam1- lies who have children in the care of
the Health Services Executive (HSE). The book was launched in Limerick in April, by Kevin O’Farrell, child- care manager with the HSE.
The purpose of the advocacy serv- ice 1s to Support families to continue their involvement with their children in care. The service is volountary and confidential to any family member who wishes to avail of it.
The advocacy workers offer fami- lies help and a listening ear on a one to one basis or in a group Setting.
A spokesperson for the service said there are numerous reason why chil- dren go into care.
“It is important to acknowledge that
children go into care for many differ- ent reasons for example, sickness in the home, bereavement or finding life’s circumstances difficult to cope with,” she said.
The spokesperson added that the process can be difficult for all parties involved: “When a child goes into the care of the HSE it is a difficult time for both parents and children. Parents may feel isolated, confused, alone or angry because others don’t under- stand what they are going through.
“The reason this book was devel- oped was to respond to the huge need for support, information and advice for parents whose children go into
care. The involvement, the input and the interest of many of the parents in developing this book has been vital.”
Many of the parents who use the ad- vocacy services attended the launch of the book and shared some person- al feelings on what this service meant Komdsloene
The booklet gives clear information to families who have children in the care of the HSE. It explains parent’s rights, what parents can do in relation to their child in care and what kind of help is available. The advocacy serv- ices can be contacted at Clare Ad- vocacy Service, Clarecare Harmony Row, Ennis.