New initiative in Mayo to support organisations that provide activities for children

A new initiative is about to launch in Mayo to support organisations across the county that provide activities for children and young people.

The Safeguarding Children and Young People in Mayo Initiative is a partnership of agencies who are members of the Mayo Children and Young Persons Services Committee (CYPSC).

This partnership is committed to ensuring that children and young people participate in safe and positive environments in services, clubs and activities provided in Mayo.

The initiative, which is being led by the child safeguarding sub group of Mayo CYPSC, is being launched on May 21 in an online event. Over the coming months, the initiative will feature a series of online events on different aspects of child safeguarding, including sessions on Children First, child safeguarding statements and designated liaison person briefing. Further sessions on awareness of domestic abuse, diversity and inclusion of children, and dealing with bullying will follow throughout the year.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Sandra Claxton, Tusla Children First information and advice officer, said that the series of online events and supporting materials were carefully developed by all of the partners on the sub group to provide community and voluntary groups with the assistance they need to navigate this important area.

“Organisations want to make sure that they are compliant with the Children First Act and child safeguarding, these online events will help to ensure this,” she stated.

Sandra, who is chairperson of the child safeguarding sub group of Mayo CYPSC, outlined the calendar of events under this initiative, which was welcomed by Paddy Martin, Tusla area manager for Mayo and CYPSC chairperson. He said it would provide guidance and reassurance to organisations that work with children which, in turn, will provide reassurance to parents knowing their children can experience a safe and positive environment. He thanked the child safeguarding sub group for their initiative in developing the briefings and pathways for organisations.

For further information about the Safeguarding Children and Young People in Mayo Initiative, or to book a place on any of these sessions, visit this link. For more information about Mayo CYPSC, visit the website.