Abstract
In Ireland, early intervention family support models are the focus of researchers and policy makers. One such model, the Home Management Advisory (HMA) service, provided in the main by home economists, delivers education, support and advice to families on all aspects of home management. A qualitative examination of the role of home management advisors, underpinned by a strengths-based approach, was conducted through in depth semi-structured interviews with past and present advisors. The study aimed to gain insights into their experiences in delivering community-based family support. The study found service provision is limited to a small geographical area in the West of Ireland. The findings highlighted the provision of a wide range of practical supports, delivered in family homes, and tailored to the specific needs of each family. However, in recent years, the service has faced significant challenges in communicating its value due to a declining number of advisors, and its limited availability, confined to just two counties in Ireland. The research suggests the service, as it stands, is an integral part of a multiagency strengths-based approach to family support within the community. Therefore, greater efforts are needed to raise stakeholder awareness of a unique family support service to ensure development regionally and nationally.
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Recommended Citation
Coffey, Sonya; McCloat, Amanda; and Mooney, Elaine
(2025)
"Ireland’s Best Kept Secret: The Unique Role of Home Management Advisors in Supporting Families in the Community,"
Irish Journal of Applied Social Studies:
Vol. 25:
Iss.
2, Article 5.
Available at:
https://arrow.tudublin.ie/ijass/vol25/iss2/5