Barnardos Ireland

Ireland’s Leading Independent Children’s Charity

Who It’s For: Vulnerable children and young people aged 0–18 across Ireland and their families — particularly those affected by adverse childhood experiences, parental mental health difficulties, bereavement, family breakdown, poverty or social exclusion. Services are available across the Republic of Ireland through a network of local centres.

What They Offer: Established in Ireland in 1962, Barnardos is Ireland’s leading independent children’s charity, delivering a wide range of direct services to children, young people and families in communities throughout the country. Their work spans early intervention, targeted family support, children’s bereavement counselling, post-adoption support, child protection advocacy and the Roots of Empathy programme. They also provide a Library and Information Service for parents, students and professionals, and campaign for the rights of children at national level.

Support Includes:

• Targeted family support services — working with families where parental mental health, addiction or other challenges place children at risk
• Children’s bereavement counselling — specialist support for bereaved children and families, available in multiple locations
• Post-adoption support services — for adults and families navigating adoption-related issues
• Guardian Ad Litem service — trained professionals advocating for children’s rights in legal proceedings
• Roots of Empathy — evidence-based programme improving children’s emotional literacy and wellbeing in schools
• Family Welfare Conferences — bringing families and professionals together to plan for children’s safety
• Early years and parenting support programmes
• Library and Information Service — advice and resources for parents, professionals and students on children and family issues
• Helpline — telephone support for parents and families
• Campaigning and policy advocacy for children’s rights in Ireland

Referral / Access: Self-referral or professional referral. Contact the national office or use the service finder on the website to locate your nearest Barnardos centre. The helpline is open Tuesday and Thursday 10am–2pm.

Why This Matters: Every child deserves to grow up safe, supported and able to reach their potential — but for many children and families in Ireland, the challenges they face can feel insurmountable without the right help. Barnardos has been walking alongside vulnerable children and their families for over 60 years, offering real, practical support that meets families where they are and works with them at their own pace.

Telephone: +353 1 453 0355 (national office, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm) Helpline: +353 1 454 6388 (Tue and Thu 10am–2pm)