About this service:

National support for family carers, including parents caring for a child with additional needs. 24-hour advice through the National Freephone Careline, a Carer Support Manager in each local centre, counselling, an Emergency Care Scheme, young carer supports, and the Parents Plus parenting programme delivered online.

Who can use it:

Family carers, including parent carers of children with additional needs. Young carers. National.

How to access the service:

Self-referral accepted. Ring the Careline. Staff can link you to counselling and local supports.

Opening hours:

Careline: Monday to Thursday 9am to 5.30pm, Friday 9am to 5pm. Outside these hours, Samaritans take calls from family carers.

Telephone and access details:

National Freephone Careline: 1800 24 07 24

Website information:

familycarers.ie

Support for families of children with additional needs:

Help with Carer’s Allowance, Domiciliary Care Allowance and other rights, plus emotional support for parents. The Parents Plus course is for parents of children with additional needs.

Source directory last updated: October 2026. Contact the service to confirm current availability and details.