The HSE provides services and support to Children, Parents and Families all over Ireland.

The HSE carries out assessments for Adoptions and Fostering. If you were adopted, if you are a birth parent, or an adoptive parent or if you were raised in long term foster care you can Trace birth relatives.

The HSE advises on and inspects Pre-School Services. The HSE plays a central role in Child Protection, through Family Support Services, Residential Care and Child Welfare and Protection services. The HSE also provides a range of Child and Adolescent Health services, and support for those experiencing Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence.

You can read about Maternity Services for people who are about to have a baby here.

Click here for a list of key Irish Legislation and National Policies governing the provision of children and family services. Underpinning the provision of services to children is the Irish Constitution and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (ratified by Ireland in 1992). The Ombudsman for Children Act, 2002 applies in relation to complaints being referred to the Ombudsman for Children. Click here to read Staff Guidelines for Obtaining Consent for Non Emergency Treatment/Services from Parents of Children and Young People Under the Age of 18 years.

A wide range of staff work in Children and Family Services. Click here for more information on their roles.

Click here to view Publications on Children and Young People's Health