On December 11th, the Children First Act, 2015 commenced in full placing elements of the Children First Guidance on a statutory footing. The key provisions in the Act that will affect early years services are:
– Mandated Reporting of Child Protection Concerns and child abuse over a certain threshold
– Requirement to have a Child Safeguarding Statement.
See Children First Act 2015 – Questions and Answers for Early Years Services
Please ensure your service has a copy onsite of http://www.tusla.ie/uploads/content/Children_First_National_Guidance_2017.pdf
(Please note a copy is available for Co Longford services in the offices of Longford County Childcare Committee)
Have a look at Tusla’s website for more information.
http://www.tusla.ie/services/child-protection-welfare/children-first/
