Preparing for Life Announces Growth of Home Visiting Programme to Benefit More Families Across Ireland

Northside Partnership is excited to announce the expansion of its Preparing For Life Home Visiting Programme, which will be extended to additional sites across Ireland over the coming months. Building on the success of its nine existing locations, the programme will soon be available to families in community sites in  Clare and Roscommon, with additional home visitors joining the team to support more families in Galway and North Dublin. This expansion is made possible through the support of the Children’s Fund, part of a wider national effort to acknowledge and invest in the future of babies, parents, and communities, especially in recognition of those impacted by mother and baby homes in the past.

The announcement coincides with the National Home Visiting Alliance’s celebration of National Home Visiting Day on October 11th. This day serves to highlight the vital role that home visiting programmes play in supporting families within their local communities. By offering a "no wrong door" approach, these programmes ensure that all families have access to the support they need during the crucial early years of their child’s development.

Since its establishment in 2020, the Home Visiting Alliance has brought together five of Ireland's leading evidence-based early childhood home visiting programmes. These organisations provide essential guidance to parents and children throughout the country. Last year alone, they supported 4,500 children across Ireland through an impressive 65,000 home visits.

To celebrate National Home Visiting Day, the Alliance is hosting an online National Home Visiting Meet & Greet from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM, with local celebrations taking place in communities nationwide.

Speaking on the expansion, Niall Sexton, Manager of Preparing For Life, said:

"The early years of a child's life are a period of immense potential. Through home visiting, we provide families with tools and support that have long-lasting positive outcomes. This expansion is a significant step in reaching more families, offering them the opportunity to thrive. It’s also a chance for home visitors across Ireland to share experiences and deepen our collective commitment to supporting families through this transformative service.”