Choosing support for your child can feel like a big step. At Rainbows Ireland, we understand that parents and caregivers may have questions about how our peer support programmes work and what their child can expect when they attend.
This guide provides some key information to help you feel informed and reassured as your child begins their Rainbows journey.
Materials and Confidentiality
The activities, journals and materials used in Rainbows have been specially developed to support children and young people in a group setting. They are designed to encourage reflection, conversation and peer support, and are not intended as diagnostic or assessment tools.
All programme materials are stored securely by the local Rainbows Coordinator throughout the programme.
- Journals completed by children in the Primary Programme are confidential and are securely shredded at the end of the programme.
- Young people participating in the Teen Programme may choose to keep their journal or have it securely shredded when the programme finishes.
What Feedback Will I Receive?
Many parents naturally wonder what their child shares in Rainbows and whether they will receive feedback.
Rainbows Facilitators are trained to create a safe and supportive environment where children and young people can explore their feelings and experiences with peers who may be facing similar challenges. Facilitators do not provide counselling, therapy, assessments, reports or diagnostic feedback.
Often, the most meaningful feedback comes from the changes parents notice themselves over time. Families frequently tell us that they see positive developments such as:
- Improved communication at home
- Reduced conflict between siblings
- Better sleep patterns
- Increased confidence
- Greater emotional awareness
- A more relaxed and settled child or young person
Every child is different, and their experience of Rainbows will be unique to them.
Practical Information and Enrolment
Rainbows Peer Support Programmes are provided free of charge through the support of Tusla and are coordinated locally by Rainbows Coordinators and trained volunteer Facilitators.
Before your child can take part:
- A completed enrolment form is required for each participant.
- We apply a Dual Consent Policy seeking where appropriate consent from both parents or guardians.
- If you have any questions before or during the programme, your local Rainbows Coordinator is your first point of contact and will be happy to help.
- For safeguarding reasons, children and young people may only be collected after sessions by the adults named on the enrolment form.
Looking for More Information?
We are here to support not only children and young people, but also the adults who care for them.
Contact us: ask@rainbowsireland.ie
Parents’ Introduction to Rainbows
We offer free online introductory workshops for parents and caregivers every month. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn more about the Rainbows programme, understand how peer support works, and ask any questions you may have. Parents’ Introduction to Rainbows 2026-2027
Find Your Nearest Rainbows Centre
Rainbows programmes are delivered in communities across Ireland. You can find details of your nearest Rainbows Centre on our website. Centre Locations
A Final Word
Every child’s journey through grief, separation or other significant family change is different. Rainbows provides a safe, welcoming space where children and young people can feel heard, understood and supported by trained facilitators and peers who may be experiencing similar challenges.
We look forward to supporting your child and your family.
Contact ask@rainbowsireland.ie for more information.
Parents’ Introduction to Rainbows · Find your nearest Rainbows Centre