Lack of social workers ‘puts children at risk’ of neglect and physical or sexual abuse

Almost one in five children waiting more than a month for a dedicated social worker is in serious danger of neglect and physical or sexual abuse, it has emerged.

Lack of social workers ‘puts children at risk’ of neglect and physical or sexual abuse

Sinn Féin TD, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin, told the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and Children, he was very concerned that a “staggering” 5,585 children were waiting over a month to be allocated a social worker.

Mr Ó Caoláin said 1,087 of the children were classified as “high risk” and called on Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, to address the issue so as to avoid excessive delays.

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