Tusla are working to reduce reliance on Special Emergency Arrangements (SEAs). In the interim, specific measures are being taken by Tusla, supported by the Department, to promote and support the quality and safety of these placements.
In this regard, Tusla have developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for these placements, which detail extensive checks that any prospective SEA provider must adhere to, including in relation to records management and staff vetting. As outlined in the SOP for SEAs, upon the establishment of an SEA a provider is issued with a guidance document from Tusla which outlines their obligations under data protection and the nature of records held. In addition to this each SEA provider is given instruction as to the types of records to be collected or processed by it when providing the service.
Tusla have also introduced a Central Compliance Unit with specific regard to monitoring SEAs, and have implemented a national approval process for new providers. All providers are required to have completed training in relation to the Children First Act (2015), which provides clear statutory obligations on relevant services. Through contracts between Tusla and commissioned services, compliance with Garda vetting and child safeguarding statements is reviewed and monitored by Tusla on a going basis.
In addition, Tusla’s Practice Assurance and Service Management (PASM) team alongside the Alternative Care Inspection Monitoring Service (ACIMS), which support Tulsa’s local social work and regional teams through a schedule of intelligence-led monitoring visits to individual private providers. Young people in special emergency arrangements are visited weekly by a social worker or delegated person to have their voice heard and check on the care being provided.
Where any safeguarding concerns are identified within an SEA, Tusla takes immediate and swift action to address them directly with the provider in order to come to a resolution that is in the best interest of the children and young people in care.
Tusla has, in the past year, identified private providers who have not met our standards with respect to validated staff training, qualifications, references and vetting and the Agency subsequently ceased engaging with them as providers. Where we have significant cause for concern, such as a case of suspected fraud or serious wrongdoing, Tusla will refer it to An Garda Síochána (AGS).
I am informed by Tusla that, based on assessed needs of Unaccompanied Minors (UAMs) and Separated Children Seeking International Protection (SCSIP) who have been accommodated in an SEA, it is often the case that these young people will share a bedroom. However, I am assured that these children will have an individual bed.
Tusla has indicated that it is facing significant and ongoing challenges in sourcing appropriate placements for children in the care of the State. I and my Department are aware of these challenges, and those outlined in recent media articles, and are committed to continuing to provide whatever support to Tusla is necessary to address them. Both Tusla and my Department share a common aim to meet the needs of all children in appropriate mainstream alternative care placements.
