Under the Aegis: Get to Know Guardian ad Litem Elaine Finneran

Meet Elaine Finneran, a qualified social worker and Guardian ad Litem who is tackling adversity and trauma for children and families across Ireland.

In this post and the video below, you will learn all about Elaine Finneran's inspiring journey from her early interest in adoption to becoming a Guardian ad Litem with TIGALA. No matter which role Elaine found herself in, one thing was clear: her dedication to direct work with children and families and her desire to aid her fellow man, woman, and child through adversity has been an unwavering constant throughout her career.

Elaine Finneran, an independent social worker and Guardian ad Litem, practising with TIGALA since 2022. She has a rich background in social work and child protection.

I was particularly struck by how children and families overcame such adversities and challenges in their lives, and how, with the proper supports and systems in place, they could grow and develop.

Her early placements in adoption and child protection ignited a passion for helping children and families navigate challenging situations. "I was particularly struck by how children and families overcame such adversities and challenges in their lives, and how, with the proper supports and systems in place, they could grow and develop," Elaine reflects.

Elaine worked as a social worker and team leader for 15 years before joining TIGALA in 2022. Her role involves working with children who have just come into state care or those detained under the Mental Health Act. Elaine excels in cases involving children who have experienced multiple traumas, focusing on creating a safe environment for them to settle and identifying the best support and interventions for their growth and development.

Elaine's commitment to direct work with children and her specialised approach as a Guardian ad Litem highlights her dedication to child advocacy. By leveraging her extensive experience, Elaine aims to bring together the necessary systems and provide the best supports to help children overcome their challenges and thrive.