It might be Ireland’s smallest county, but an innovative programme started in Louth 18 months ago is making big strides in improving the welfare of children and families in the county. So much so that ways of rolling this out across the country are now being examined.

At a conference in Dundalk on Tuesday (14th June), over 200 education, health and social work professionals will hear how the Genesis Programme is bringing 50 organisations together to break down barriers and improve children’s outcomes.

Guest speakers will include:

• Prof. Richard Layte of Trinity College Dublin and the ESRI speaking about “Early Life Environment and Development”
• The new CEO of Tusla, Fred McBride discussing “From Welfare to Well-Being and Resilience”
• And recently elected Senator and President of Trinity Students Union, Lynn Ruane talking about “Factors That Make Change Happen: A Different Perspective”

In a particularly innovative move the conference will also feature a series of roundtable workshops lead by the specialist teams in Louth. Topics will include strengthening families, promoting positive infant mental health, Incredible Beginnings (the latest programme to be developed in the Incredible Years series), education provision in the area of domestic abuse and collaborative working. These sessions will allow delegates to learn at first hand from those in Louth that are leading the way.

For more information on the Genesis Programme visit www.genesislouth.ie