Nobody asked me to do this website, which is principally concerned with the protection of vulnerable people, and in particular children affected by imprisonment in Ireland – or, I would hope, anywhere in the world [1].
I am aware that there are zillions of websites out there – so why read mine? I suppose in a way it’s a bit of a shot in the dark!
Considering the concept of the emotionally healthy enough adult, (and the relatively uncertain prospects of children in care of the state) [2], ordinary common sense will ordain that a very important focus for any child protection project is maintenance of emotional health of those who care for children, whether they are parents, step-parents, grandparents, adoptive parents, foster parents, extended family members, professional carers, or others in the community.
Because of this, consideration of the systems in which families are situated will be an ongoing theme.
Now, I have often observed that people (including myself) can be swept away in a wave of enthusiasm at the initial stages of a new programme or model that promises much!
However it is the maintaining of new, creative and original thinking and practice over many years and even decades in an organisation that is truly the acid test of the commitment to the process of development.
Another important factor is how adaptable the model is.
That is:
1. Has it the flexibility to be implemented in different locations and cultures?
2. Have the originators of the model the capacity to reflect, listen and learn from others while still maintaining the original ethos, goals and purpose of the initial programme?
My hope is that – as the website is read – your minds and hearts will be opened to the possibility that there can be a different way of working than is currently the norm – if that is achieved I would be very happy indeed.
[1]. Because I have lived and worked all my life in Ireland it is probably weighted a fair bit towards my native land.
[2]. Much research that is commonly available concludes that the best place for children to grow up is in a stable family of origin. Also, many men and women that I have met who had been to prison had been in the care of the state as children.