Media Statement | EPIC concerned over continued use of hotel rooms for children in care and inequalities in out-of-hours service

EPIC is concerned that children are still being placed in hotel rooms when Tusla cannot find appropriate emergency placements. HIQA’s findings on Tusla’s National Out of Hours Service highlight concerns about the impact of these arrangements on children’s wellbeing and the additional safeguarding risks associated with unregulated arrangements.  

The continued use of these arrangements points to wider pressures across the care system, including a shortage of appropriate placements for children with different and often complex needs. 

EPIC is also concerned that children are not receiving an equitable out-of-hours service, depending on where they live. HIQA found that the majority of children living outside Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow had limited in-person contact with a social worker when referred to the service and also faced delays in receiving a service.  

A 2023 review recommend a significant restructure of the service, but HIQA found this has not yet been progressed.  

Wayne Stanley, CEO of EPIC, said: 

“The findings from HIQA point to pressures across the care system that EPIC sees every day through our advocacy service. Care placements continue to be one of the main issues that children and young people in care seek advocacy support for, and the impact can be significant, with children waiting for suitable placements, or remaining in placements that do not meet their needs. 

Budget 2027 needs to address these pressures. Sustained investment is needed to increase foster care, residential care, special care and step-down capacity, alongside the workforce needed to support children in care. 

Children should not receive a different level of care depending on where they live. The Government has a responsibility to ensure every child can access the right placement and support when they need it, with a care system that is adequately resourced to meet their needs.” 

ENDS