New research highlights gaps in support for separated children seeking international protection in Ireland

New research launched by EPIC Empowering People in Care highlights the challenges facing separated children seeking international protection in Ireland, especially during the critical transition from care to adulthood.

The study, carried out by Dr Muireann Ní Raghallaigh, Dr Joanne Kelleher, and Professor Prospera Tedam, shows that separated children demonstrate resilience and determination, while also highlighting the pressures within Ireland’s care and protection system.

The numbers of separated children seeking international protection in Ireland have grown significantly in recent years: as of June 2025, 478 separated children were being accommodated by Tusla, including 319 international protection applicants and 159 young people from Ukraine.

• Instability in care: Separated children often face a lack of consistency in care experiences and disparities in access to education, healthcare, and accommodation. 
• Transition to adulthood: Many separated children lose supports at 18, with some moving to emergency adult international protection accommodation and others likely to experience homelessness.
• Legal uncertainty: Reliance on Section 5 of the Child Care Act leaves children without statutory protections, with many having limited access to social work and aftercare support.
• Care arrangements: A one-size-fits-all approach does not meet children’s needs; individualised care planning, including foster and residential care options, is essential.
• Integration and anti-racism: A coordinated, community-based response is required to address rising anti-refugee sentiment and ensure children can build long-term connections.

• Amendments to the Child Care Act 1991 to clarify admission and protections for separated children, including ensuring safeguards like social worker allocation, care planning and aftercare.
• Improved inter-agency collaboration through a national policy framework and inter-agency forum to coordinate Tusla, international protection services and community supports.
• Guaranteed aftercare supports so no young person is left without a safety net at 18.
• Dedicated social workers and access to independent advocacy.
• Regular review of international protection procedures to ensure they take account of the specific vulnerabilities of separated children.
• Review and strengthening of existing inspection standards and safeguards.
• Investment in education, housing, and mental health supports.

Dr Muireann Ní Raghallaigh said: “Separated children in Ireland face considerable challenges during their time in care and after they turn 18. Ireland has demonstrated some excellent practice in their care and protection, but these standards have come under pressure recently, despite efforts by key stakeholders. The research confirms that for separated children and young people to reach their potential, they need individualised support and consistent relationships built on trust. This can only be achieved when professionals are suitably trained and qualified, and where there is meaningful investment in the services that support them.”

Wayne Stanley, CEO of EPIC, said: “Separated children arrive in Ireland seeking safety. Many have experienced trauma and face ongoing vulnerabilities, yet when they turn 18, vital supports can disappear overnight. Ireland can and must do better. With the right support and investment, we can ensure these young people have the stability and care they need, when they need it most.”

This research was funded by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Grants Scheme.

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