Empowering children and families through timely, coordinated care while upholding their rights
what is barnahus?
A Scandinavian word for “children’s house”
Barnahus is a safe and child-friendly place where a team of trained professionals work together with the child and family when there is a concern or disclosure of child sexual abuse. The agencies responsible for child protection, criminal investigation, medical care, and therapy services work together and deliver a coordinated and effective response that is guided by the child’s best interests. The Barnahus model, originating in Iceland and meaning ‘Children’s House’, has become a beacon for services across Europe.
Our Vision
Our Vision is an Ireland where every child who has or may have experienced sexual abuse has timely access to coordinated, child-centred care, where children’s rights to safety, recovery, and access to justice are fully upheld.
Our Mission
Our Mission is to have a Barnahus where we empower children by ensuring their voices are central, and where we work together with children, their families, and professionals to deliver a coordinated interagency response that promotes children’s wellbeing by ensuring that their safety, physical, and emotional needs are met, and that they are provided with access to justice.
Quick Links
Access important resources and information to better understand the Barnahus services, from child protection to emotional support.
What Happens at Barnahus?
Understand the child’s journey through Barnahus.
Our Teams
Learn about our roles and responsibilities.
The Barnahus Four Rooms
Discover how the four rooms of Barnahus operate.
The Barnahus Centre Locations
Identify your nearest Barnahus site.
About a Child?
If you have a child protection concern, please refer to the Tusla website.
