The “Child Abuse Substantiation Procedure” (CASP) is a revision of the “Policy and Procedures for Responding to Allegations of Abuse and Neglect” 2014. It is based on learning that indicated the need to further enhance consistency of practice across Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. In addition, changes were also required to incorporate new legal judgements in this complex area of law and practice.
The Child Abuse Substantiation Procedure (CASP) is available on the Tusla Hub and will be effective from 27th June 2022 across all Tusla areas.
CASP will assist social workers in achieving an optimum standard of child protection practice when carrying out substantiation assessments. Furthermore, this procedure will allow Tusla to function within the correct parameters of its legal obligations, fair procedures, and information management.
Engaging extensively in a consultation process both internally and externally was a very important step for the Agency in encompassing views from colleagues, both within Tusla and across many organisations working in this deeply complex and sensitive area including the Irish Foster Care Association and dedicated focus groups with foster carers. This consultation process contributed significantly to the finalising of the CASP.
In preparation of the implementation of CASP on 27th June 2022 a bespoke training plan is currently underway. The interactive online programme consists of a mix of theory and skills-based practice. It has a number of training streams for relevant staff within Tusla and consists of both eLearning and virtual classroom training. It includes modules on CASP, CASP Data Protection Guidance and CASP Tusla Case Management System (TCMS). CASP training is currently underway on a phased basis for Tusla frontline and regional staff, who will have responsibility for implementing the CASP. This training is very specific to Tusla staff as Tusla social workers fulfil their statutory responsibility to work in this difficult, sensitive and complex area, under Section 3 of the Child Care Act 1991. It is not envisaged that Tusla will provide training to external stakeholders, of which there is a vast number from diverse backgrounds, all deeply invested in this area of work.
Tusla has commited to review the operation of CASP after 12 months of operation with stakeholders, to take account of evolving evidence-based practice and research in this area, developing case law and changes in legislation.
Tusla is mindful that there will be many questions from stakeholders in advance of CASP go-live date. Consequently, as part of its communications planning, Tusla is designing a YouTube video will provide a concise overview of the application of the CASP.
