Tusla Ireland child and youth participation toolkit

Rights-based toolkit to embed meaningful child and youth participation in Irish public services.

The Tusla Child and Youth Participation Toolkit is a practical, rights-based resource designed to support staff from Tusla — the Irish Child and Family Agency, and its partner organizations, to embed meaningful child and youth participation throughout their work. Grounded in the Lundy model and anchored in national legislation (Child and Family Agency Act 2013) and the UNCRC, it provides a clear framework and dozens of participatory methods. The toolkit explores the four pillars of participation — creating space, facilitating voice, ensuring receptive audience, and demonstrating influence — with illustrative examples, guidance sections, and interactive activities. Its implementation process was co-designed with staff, children, and researchers (NUI Galway). It aims to mainstream participatory culture in social work, education, family support, and statutory services, improving outcomes and empowering children across Ireland.

Source: Tusla - Child and Family Agency
Language: English

Authors: Aleks Libertas

Year of publication: 2016