Trinity College Dublin (TCD) and Mason Hayes & Curran (MHC) LLP solicitors have collaborated on the fourth iteration of their specialist online course for practitioners who are dealing with child protection and domestic violence matters.

The course, which has been developed in response to increased demand for specialised socio-legal training in this area, will start on 22 April, with one session per week over a four-week period, all taking place online.

This is a collaborative project between Trinity Online Unit, Dr Stephanie Holt, TCD’s School of Social Work and Social Policy head, and Sonya Bruen, a partner in the health and prosecutions team at MHC LLP.

Key stakeholders, including TUSLA and Safe Ireland, have been involved in developing relevant course content.

A number of legal professionals have expressed interest in learning more about the impact of domestic violence on children, with particular reference to ensuring their voices are heard in court proceedings. 

Valuable debate

So far, approximately 400 practitioners have taken the course, which has led to valuable debate between professional groups. 

This year’s course is available to all practitioners, including solicitors and barristers.

Dr Stephanie Holt will speak on the research evidence on domestic violence and abuse as it relates to child protection and welfare, and on managing contact between parents and children where there has been domestic violence.

Solicitor Sonya Bruen, who has practised in child protection, will utilise a wide range of court experience to provide practical guidance on the key legislation and how parental rights and children’s rights can be balanced in this complex area.

To register for the course, visit the School of Social Work and Social Policy site.

CPD points are available for participation and the closing date for applications is 11 April.