Minister Foley invests €413,000 in early childhood support

Minister Norma Foley has announced a significant investment of €413,188 from Dormant Accounts funding to support 12 community and voluntary organisations throughout Ireland. This allocation, part of the 2026 What Works in Communities Fund, is designed to enhance prevention and early intervention services for children, young people, and families.

Supporting vulnerable children and families

The funded projects address a wide range of needs, including:

• Early intervention services for children and young people affected by trauma from domestic abuse
• Support programmes for parents of deaf children and young people
• Preschool home liaison initiatives aimed at encouraging participation from children at risk of disadvantage
• A pilot play therapy programme for children facing emotional, behavioural, or developmental challenges
• Training programmes to assist young adults with Down Syndrome transitioning to adult life

These initiatives promote participation, equality, and inclusion, targeting issues such as child poverty, mental health, children in care, disabilities, early learning, and child development.

Selection and impact

The 12 projects were chosen from 101 eligible applications through an independent assessment process, ensuring that funds are directed to the most impactful initiatives. Minister Foley stated: "This funding is a vital investment in Ireland’s children and young people. Through the What Works initiative, Dormant Accounts funding is being channelled into prevention and early intervention services that will provide high-quality, evidence-based supports making a lasting difference for children, young people, and families across the country." Full project descriptions and further details are available on the official government website.