'Hidden Hero' campaign highlights power of caring adults

A campaign celebrating the difference a trusted and caring adult can make to a child facing hidden harm will be launched in Ballybofey, Co Donegal.

The ‘Hidden Hero - One Good Adult’ campaign initiative involves HSE Social Inclusion, Donegal GAA, the Northwest Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force and Jigsaw.

It aims to recognise volunteers and community members whose everyday kindness, consistency and encouragement help children experiencing difficulties.

HSE Addiction Services Lead Donna McGee said the campaign is based on a message that a safe, trusted and consistent adult can make a profound difference in a child’s life.

Ms McGee said formal safeguarding and support services remain essential to protect children, but supportive relationships can help children build trust and resilience.

She hopes the initiative, which aims to raise awareness of hidden harm and encouragement of early, non-judgemental support may be expanded nationwide.

Ombudsman for Children Dr Niall Muldoon will deliver a keynote address at the launch later, which will include speakers from the HSE, Tusla, Jigsaw and Donegal GAA.

A video resource, developed by the North West Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force, details the difference a trusted adult can make to a child living with hidden harm.

Representatives nominated by Donegal GAA clubs will receive recognition awards for supporting children and young people at an event this evening.

Chairperson of Donegal GAA Health and Wellbeing Committee Cora Harvey said the message for volunteers is very simple: "We are not asking you to do more - we are acknowledging that what you already do matters.

"A coach may never know what is happening when a child goes home, but the coach, can notice them, know their name, include them, encourage them and give them a place where they feel they belong."

She said volunteers who regularly do this "may never fully know the impact" they have on a child’s life.

The launch will also feature a panel discussion involving GAA players on the lasting influence trusted adults can have throughout a young person’s life.

Ms McGee said some "children come to train and carry much more than their kit bag".

She added: "It’s a campaign that focuses on connection, belonging, and hope, without blaming parents or defining children by what may have happened to them.

"You might say - we already have that through the GAA club, so that's why we partnered with the Donegal GAA."

Ms McGee said if a child confides about problems at home, support can then be provided for the whole family through partner services.

She said the ‘Hidden Heroes - One Good Adult’ campaign recognises that safeguarding is not only about responding when serious concerns arise, but also about building caring communities around children.

She added the smallest actions can positively influence the trajectory of a child’s life.