Under the Aegis: Val Kerr's Ten Year Journey as a Guardian ad Litem

Join Val Kerr, a Guardian ad Litem at TIGALA, as she reflects on her profound journey in child advocacy. From her initial role at Tusla to her current position with TIGALA, discover how her dedication shapes the lives of children she works with.

Val Kerr’s career in social work and child advocacy has spanned over two decades, marked by a deep commitment to child welfare and a desire to work directly with the children she works to advocate for. As a Guardian ad Litem with The Independent Guardian Ad Litem Agency (TIGALA), Val has harnessed her extensive experience to champion children’s rights and their well-being across various judicial contexts.

Val's dedication and hard work with Tusla led to her promotion to the position of team leader, but it was a deep passion for direct engagement with children that brought her to seek to become a Guardian ad Litem. As a Guardian, she has not only represented children in court but also ensured their voices are heard in critical decisions which affecting their lives. Val’s role has seen her navigate through complex cases spanning from the District Court right the way up to the Supreme Court and European courts, providing her with a wealth of experience within the legal system.

I've always enjoyed working directly with children, and that was the main reason for me to move into the role of the Guardian.

Val's work extends beyond routine legal representation; she has been actively involved in special care proceedings and cases under the Mental Health Act, showcasing her expertise in handling sensitive situations with empathy and professionalism. Her commitment to advocacy is driven by the belief that all children deserve a life marked by safety and opportunity, and her efforts aim to align their care with these fundamental rights.

Through her nearly ten-year tenure as an independent social worker and Guardian ad Litem, Val has significantly impacted the lives of many young individuals. Her approach combines a strong foundation in child protection laws with a compassionate understanding of the children’s personal experiences and needs.

This dual focus – combined, of course, with an adherence to the agency's Practice Principles as detailed by TIGALA Director Claire Quinn in the first instalment in this series – ensures that each child she works with is not only safeguarded legally but also supported emotionally and psychologically.

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In her own words, Val’s career is a testament to the power of dedicated advocacy. Her work not only demands legal acumen but also a heartfelt dedication to the children she serves. It’s this combination that has enabled her to make a lasting difference, advocating for those who need it most and ensuring their rights are upheld in every arena.