‘Boarded Out’ is a term used to describe children who were fostered or raised with families other than their own in Ireland.

This happened mainly between 1920 and up to the introduction of the 1991 Child Care Act. There was also a practice of being nursed out and many children were boarded out on farms in rural areas (farmed out).

In light of the Taoiseach’s apology on behalf of the Government to survivors of institutional abuse, with mention to those who had been boarded out, farmed out or nursed out, Barnardos offers a free and confidential service.

Barnardos Boarded Out Practical Support Service for Adults include:

  • Support to access to health, community and social services
  • Support with isolation and loneliness
  • Assistance in filling out forms and grant applications
  • Advocacy, information and signposting
  • Referral to Barnardos therapeutic supports

If you have experience of being boarded out and would like to avail of this service, you can contact Barnardos by phone, email or fill out the form on our website.

  • Dublin: (01) 813 4100
  • Cork: (021) 203 8005
  • Galway: (091) 454489
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Confidential Helpline: (01) 454 6388 Tuesday and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm

About Barnardos

Barnardos’ mission is to deliver services and work with families, communities, and our partners to transform the lives of vulnerable children who are affected by adverse childhood experiences. Because childhood lasts a lifetime www.barnardos.ie  

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