Wexford and Waterford-Based Therapy Service for Child Sexual Abuse Victims Faces Defunding by Tusla

Tusla, the child and family agency, has confirmed plans to defund a key therapeutic service in Wexford and Waterford, which has been helping victims of child sexual abuse and supporting children transitioning into new care settings.

The Journal reports that this decision is part of Tusla's ongoing national restructuring under its ‘reform’ programme. The therapy service, funded by Tusla for the last eight years, has provided vital support for children and families in the region, helping children cope with trauma and adjust to foster or residential care. The service is also deeply involved in trauma-informed practice training in local schools.

However, concerns are growing among staff and families about the future of the service. The team, which includes therapists and social care professionals, works under the St Brigid’s Family and Community Centre, although Tusla manages some roles directly. Since last year, two key positions within the team have remained unfilled after staff departures.

Staff have voiced fears that defunding the service will result in children receiving less support, especially in cases involving sexual abuse victims. With a shortage of private providers in the region, the team worries that outsourcing therapy could leave vulnerable children without essential care.

Despite the significant role this service plays in the community, Tusla has stated that the service will be phased out, though the agency has assured that affected families will continue to receive therapeutic services until their current appointments are completed. Tusla has yet to clarify the nature of the services that will replace the support previously provided by the team.

Local representatives and Forsa union members have strongly criticized the decision, questioning how the restructuring aligns with Tusla’s goals to increase access to therapeutic services for children in care.