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Being safe

13 – 17

years

old

What does this mean?

How is this right protected in Ireland?

What should I do if I don’t feel safe?

Does every child in Ireland get this right?

What does this mean?

Article 19 of the UNCRC says the State has to protect children from all forms of harm and exploitation. It’s up to the government to protect you from dangerous situations such as abuse, kidnapping or being involved in drug trade.

How is this right protected in Ireland?

The Children’s First Act 2015 says that protecting children is everyone’s responsibility. Any adult working with children, such as teachers, social workers and doctors, have to keep children safe and if they have any concerns, they must report this to the Gardaí or to TUSLA

Section 42A of the Irish constitution states that if a child is not safe living with their family, they have the right to be cared for by someone else. If you are living with a foster family or in a residential home, Tusla have to make sure it is a safe, good place for you to be.

What should I do if I don’t feel safe?

If you don’t feel safe at home, in school, in your area or at any other time, you should speak to your parents, teachers or another trusted adult. You can also make a report to the Gardaí and they should take you seriously. You can also talk to TUSLA – they work with families and the Gardaí to protect children from harm.

If you have nobody around you that you trust, you can ring Childline run by the ISPCC, who offer a safe space to talk.

Does every child in Ireland get this right?

While Ireland is generally considered a safe country for children to grow up in, unfortunately some children are not safe in their home or face discrimination in society.

Find out what you can do when you’re not getting your rights.