Tusla Mid-West launch new resource for youths

IN CELEBRATION of Care Day 2025, Tusla Mid-West, Child and Family Agency, alongside care experienced young people and Extern have launched a guide for children and young people in care.

Titled ‘A Guide to Me’ it is a resource for young people in care to aid in their transition. This was developed by young people in care, for their peers with the support of their Tusla social workers and Extern.

At the end of December 2024 there were 501 children in care in the Mid-West. Care Day is a celebration of all children and young people with care experience, which includes children and young people who are or were cared for by family members, in foster care, children’s residential care or aftercare.

This year’s theme ‘Voices from Care, Ripples of Change’ celebrates the transformative power of hearing directly from these young people about their lived experiences.

Each voice from care carries a unique perspective, shedding light on both major challenges and triumphs.

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Care Day is a call to listen, learn, and amplify their voices, as every story has the potential to create ripples of change.

Dr Caroline Cullen, Regional Chief Officer, Tusla Mid-West, said: “Care Day is a highlight for us each year in Tusla, it is a great opportunity to celebrate and recognise their achievements and support young people to reach their full potential.

“We are incredibly proud of each young person involved in creating ‘A Guide to Me.’ Their hard work and collaboration shines through and it will be a vital resource for their peers.”

Leslie Ann Scott, CEO, Extern, added: “Children who are care experienced often have multiple placements, and find themselves having to retell their story over and over.

“This inspirational ‘Guide to Me’ based on lived experience will be a major support, not just for today but for future children and young people. A massive congratulations and well done to the young people involved.”