Empowering parents in child protection: an evaluation of the the Parental Advocacy and Information Service (PAIS) in Ireland

Powell, Shane, Preter, Emilia, Diaz, Clive and Hansly, Vicky 2026. Empowering parents in child protection: an evaluation of the the Parental Advocacy and Information Service (PAIS) in Ireland. Child & Family Social Work 10.1111/cfs.70207

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Abstract

Parental advocacy represents a crucial response to the marginalization of parents within child protection systems, aiming to empower them by amplifying their voices, ensuring their participation and supporting them through complex legal and bureaucratic processes. This article evaluates the Parental Advocacy and Information Service (PAIS), a pilot service launched in Ireland to provide independent advocacy for parents involved in child protection cases. Drawing on qualitative data from interviews and surveys with parents and professionals, the study explores how advocacy services contribute to meaningful parental participation in decision‐making, impact relationships between parents and professionals and address the emotional and informational needs of parents. The findings highlight the role of advocacy in breaking down complex information, enhancing parents' knowledge of their rights and fostering improved communication with child protection professionals. Despite challenges, the PAIS has proven to be an invaluable tool for empowering parents, reducing emotional distress and facilitating more collaborative relationships with social workers. This article contributes to the growing body of literature on parental advocacy in child protection, offering insights into its potential to transform systems of support for families.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	In Press
Schools:	Schools > Social Sciences (Includes Criminology and Education) Schools > English, Communication and Philosophy
Additional Information:	License information from Publisher: LICENSE 1: URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Publisher:	Wiley
ISSN:	1356-7500
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	13 May 2026
Date of Acceptance:	21 April 2026
Last Modified:	04 Aug 2026 22:33
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/186985

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