“Be Strong – There’s so many problems waiting”: The Experiences of Separated Children Seeking International Protection in Ireland

Empowering People in Care has published new research examining the experiences of separated children seeking international protection in Ireland. The report, “Be Strong – There’s so many problems waiting”: The Experiences of Separated Children Seeking International Protection in Ireland, was conducted by Dr Muireann Ní Raghallaigh, Dr Joanne Kelleher, and Professor Prospera Tedam of UCD’s School of Social Policy, Social Work and Social Justice, with funding from the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission.

The research highlights the resilience and determination of separated children seeking international protection, while also drawing attention to the significant challenges they face within Ireland’s care and protection systems. It identifies instability in placements, unequal access to education and healthcare, and uncertainty about legal status as key concerns. The transition to adulthood is a particularly difficult stage, as many young people lose vital supports at 18 and face the risk of homelessness or being moved into emergency adult accommodation. The report finds that a one-size-fits-all approach to care is not meeting these young people’s needs and calls for more coordinated, individualised, and community-based responses that promote inclusion and wellbeing.

The research amplifies the voices of young people who have experienced the care system first hand. Their insights reveal both the challenges they face and the difference that stability, trust, and meaningful support can make as they build their lives in Ireland.