National Advocacy Phone Support

Our over-the-phone service, which is provided free of charge, is a client-led empathetic space for parents/guardians to discuss any concerns or questions on the forensic and/or medical examination and/or the trial process. They will also provide support on negotiating the Criminal Justice System. This advocacy phone support provides parents/guardians with a space to explore any questions or concerns they may have in addition to helping them understand their rights and express their views.  We will liaise with any other professionals linked in with the young person(s) and their families, with consent,  to ensure ease of communication for families while they negotiate the Irish Criminal Process.

The role of an Advocacy Support Worker is to support families through the different pathways  of the Criminal Justice System.

Forensic Advocacy Phone Support Worker provides a listening space for families to prevent them from feeling isolated. It allows for the family to explore any common concerns or questions, or if there is a need for more appropriate long-term supports if required. Our Support Worker can provide a list of appropriate services.

Court Advocacy Phone Support Worker provides a listening space for families to prevent them from feeling isolated. It allows the family to explore any common concerns or questions regarding court proceedings and also to arrange pre-trial meetings and to liaise with other professionals involved, e.g., Garda or any other relevant professional linked into the case.

• Information on services available
• Ongoing crisis support pre or post forensic/medical examinations
• Support and guidance regarding medical/forensic examinations
• Information on the Criminal Justice System
• Support and guidance regarding a criminal trial
• A compassionate person who will listen in a non-judgemental way

Your Advocacy Support Worker will let you know the hours they are available and how to contact them. They will schedule calls with you.

If you want support, you can contact support@assc.ieand someone on our team will get back to you.