Social work services

Information

Child welfare and protection services (including family support services) are provided by Tusla – the Child and Family Agency.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) may provide social work services for other groups or individuals. Social work services are delivered by teams of social workers, working with individuals and groups experiencing social and emotional difficulties. The aim of social work is to help people achieve change and make decisions which will improve their quality of life. It is also a function of social work to identify options and support steps to advance social policy and service delivery.

Most public hospitals employ social workers whose main task is to help people when they leave the hospital. They may find suitable accommodation for them, help them to find a nursing home place or ensure that the necessary supports are in place if they return home.

The availability of social workers varies from one HSE area to another. Some Local Health Offices employ social workers specifically to cater for the needs of older people.

Social workers

Social workers are regulated and registered by the Health and Social Care Professionals Council, CORU.

The Irish Association of Social Workers is the the national body representing social workers. For more information on social work, contact the Assocation at the address below (see 'Where to apply').

Where to apply

You can apply directly to your Local Health Office or hospital for assistance from a social worker.

Further information on social workers and working as a social worker is available from:

Irish Association of Social Workers

114-116 Pearse Street
Dublin
Ireland

Tel: +353 1 677 4838

CORU Health and Social Care Professionals Council

Infinity Building
George's Court
George's Lane
Smithfield
Dublin 7
D07 E98Y

Tel: (01) 293 3160
Page edited: 9 December 2019