Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People, Chris Quinn has released a statement on the closure of Parenting Focus NI describing it as a “deeply troubling concern”.
Parent Focus is the leading charity for parent support in Northern Ireland and operates a free parent support line and parenting programmes and workshops.
In his statement, the Children’s Commissioner said: “It is with real sadness that I note the closure of Parenting Focus NI after 46 years of service to families in Northern Ireland.
For almost half a century, Parenting Focus has been a vital voice and source of support for parents and children, delivering programmes that build resilience, strengthening relationships, and giving countless families the tools they needed to thrive.”
Mr Quinn added: “The legacy of their work is profound. Generations of children and young people have benefitted directly and indirectly from the dedication of their amazing staff, volunteers, and supporters.
Importantly, Parenting Focus has not only provided frontline support but also played a key role in shaping policy – including their input into the review of children’s social care – and working alongside partners across the voluntary and community sector to ensure services for families could continue.”
The Commissioner stated that the closure raises a broader and deeply troubling concern.
“The voluntary and community sector, which has been the backbone of early intervention and family support in NI, is on its knees. We have seen the closure of several brilliant organisations over the years – and the removal of and reduction in funding that enables the delivery of essential services to vulnerable children and families is deeply concerning.
“This must act as a wake-up call for government. Evidence has told us time and time again that early intervention and family support is crucial – they prevent crises, strengthen communities, and represent good value for public money.
“While the services provided by Parenting Focus and other voluntary sector services are evaluated and demonstrate positive outcomes for children and their families, there is less evidence of the impact of a wide range of statutory services, although resources continue to be allocated to them.”
