There are currently over 2,000 children and families on Barnardos' waiting list as the children's charity calls for action from the Government.

Over half of the people waiting for support have been on the waiting list for longer than three months, while more than 600 have been waiting for over six months, according to the charity's annual report.

In 2023, Barnardos worked with 26,009 children and adults impacted by adversity and childhood trauma.

The charity provides trauma-informed services for children, parents, carers and individuals in their homes, schools or in one of Barnardos' 56 locations across the country.

Barnardos provides support for a variety of issues, including parental separation and conflict, emotional and behavioural issues, unsuitable housing, parental mental health, poverty, bereavement, addiction and domestic abuse.

With the General Election just days away, Barnardos is calling on all parties to "significantly increase the funding for intensive family support services to reduce the harm and trauma" children are exposed to.

In a statement, Barnardos said they are dependent on fundraising efforts and the State in order to deliver services.

In 2023, they recorded a deficit of €0.7 million due to increased demand for services.

The group said they need €10 million this year from public support to cope with the demand.

"We are very proud of our frontline staff for supporting more families than ever before, however we do not feel our job is done while so many children and their parents wait for support," Barnardos CEO Suzanne Connolly said.

 "The next Government must increase funding to match increasing levels of need and guarantee children and families can get access to the supports they need."

Barnardos is asking the public to support them through their Change Their Story - Because Childhood Lasts a Lifetime campaign.

Feature image: A parent holds hands with a child across a table, 21/03/202, Alamy