TESO Strategic Plan 2007-2014

Abstract

Learning and Healthy Development is what TESO is all about. TESO directly provides services to support children, young people and parents to learn through Education, Healthy Development, Family Support and through valuing diversity. On behalf of the members of TESO, | present its works in terms of achievements, challenges and collaboration. We can be proud of the achievements over the past ten years and we are mindful of the unique contributions that all of the children, families, staff and board members have made throughout that time. In particular, | wish to pay special recognition to the former chairperson, Pat Brady (Crosscare), the former secretary, Clare Harney (Finglas Cabra Partnership) and the former manager, Midge Nolan (Barnardos). Not content to look back, TESO is prepared for challenges ahead. We want to address the challenges that confront us in order to build on our successes. One of the key challenges that this Strategic Plan highlights is the growing financial deficit. The project is currently under resourced which threatens its ongoing viability, and very importantly the development of the project in response to the needs of children and families going forward. The funding in place for the project does not meet the ongoing cost of delivering the services. We appreciate the current contribution and support from HSE, Dept of Education & Science, Pobal, Finglas Cabra Partnership, Crosscare, Barnardos, Dublin City Council (Traveller Welfare Section & Admin) and the Dept of Social & Family Affairs however, we also need significantly increased funding if we are to continue service delivery and improve outcomes for all the children and parents involved in the project. The Strategic Planning process started May 2006 with 12 representatives from different statutory and community agencies. Stephen Rourke facilitated four planning meetings which were positive experiences of collaboration. The sustainability of the TESO Project should not be taken for granted. Working collaboratively takes time and resources. TESO requires the on-going support and active participation of key stakeholders and welcomes new members to its board of management.