National Advocacy Service Report 2024
In 2024, EPIC’s National Advocacy Service supported 648 children and young people across Ireland through 975 advocacy cases – the highest number since the service began – reflecting both growing demand and the increasing complexity of issues faced by care-experienced children and young people.
For children under 18, the main presenting issues were complaints, placements, access to services, and aftercare planning. Complaints emerged for the first time as a main presenting issue, largely relating to children living in Special Emergency Arrangements (SEAs). For young adults over 18, key concerns included accommodation, legal matters, access to services, and financial support, with a significant rise in separated children seeking international protection.
EPIC’s work highlights persistent challenges in housing, mental health, disability, and education services, as well as the financial strain on care-leavers. The report underscores the vital role of independent advocacy in amplifying children’s voices, supporting transitions to adulthood, and ensuring statutory responsibilities are met. EPIC wants to see stronger national coordination, clearer service pathways, and sustained investment to address these systemic issues.
The experiences and insights shared by children and young people guide EPIC’s work, shaping both our practice and our contributions to policy. We are grateful to the children and young people who engage with us and trust us with their stories, and to our colleagues and partner organisations, whose collaboration strengthens support for care-experienced young people across the country.
