Dóchas Family Centre

Child & Family Support

How to Make a Referral

When making a referral Dóchas require as much information as possible and recommend that all referrers involve the family in this process (if the family is not making a ‘self-referral’) and ask the parent/s to sign the form as their informed consent is required; if you need to put information on a separate piece of paper please do so.

Completing a Referral Form is the first step and a referral is accepted after Dóchas has completed a more detailed assessment to see if we can help. If we cannot provide the level of support a family needs we will refer that family back to the relevant referring agency or onto another support service (where possible).  Dóchas will inform the family or referring agency.

Referral Form – must be completed for all families.

Agency Support Form – if the family is receiving support from other agencies

Completed Referral Forms should be sent to: Claire McEwen, Director, Dochas Family Centre, Liscarne Gardens, Clondalkin Dublin D22 KF22

If you are still unsure about making a referral contact Claire, for an informal discussion on 01 623 4531

Criteria for Child & Family Work

  • A Family identify a number of needs for which they require support. 
  • The child lives within the North Clondalkin geographic area.
  • The child is (minimum) aged 7 and referred before they are aged 12.
  • If the referral is accepted; parents will be required to have weekly contact with the team through home or Centre based visits where necessary. 
  • Completion of a referral form does not mean the referral is accepted or is appropriate to Dóchas Family Centre.
  • Referrers are advised to contact Dóchas Family Centre to discuss making a referral in the first instance with the Director.
  • Referral Form is completed in full with clear and accurate information.
  • Referral information discussed with parents and parents must sign the referral. 
  • If a child is in foster care we cannot accept a referral unless we have written consent from the Social Worker.
  • Note: Referrals for Art Therapy and Family Therapy service will involve additional steps to assess suitability. There is currently a wait list for these services.

Dóchas Family Centre provides family support at Level 3 of the Hardiker model and we link in with other agencies on a regular basis.