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Janus Project Showcased at International Social Work Seminar in France
Lauren Fitzgerald, Project Worker with Extern’s Janus Dublin North team, recently represented Extern at a three-day youth and social work seminar hosted by Toulouse University in France.
The event brought together social work practitioners, academics, and students from across Europe, including Spain, Finland, and Ireland, to explore international approaches to youth work and social care practice. The seminar also provided first-year students with insight into cross-European practice and created opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange between organisations.
The Janus Programme is a community-based intensive family support service delivered by Extern. It works with children and young people aged 10–17 who are experiencing emotional or behavioural difficulties, or who may be at risk of entering care. The programme provides tailored, wraparound support aimed at helping young people remain safely at home or within the least restrictive care setting possible. It also focuses on strengthening family relationships, improving social functioning, and supporting positive engagement with education and community life.
As part of the seminar, Lauren delivered a presentation outlining her role within Extern and highlighting the wider context of social and youth work practice in Ireland. She also participated in workshops and discussion groups with students and practitioners, contributing to shared learning and professional dialogue.
Lauren reflected on the experience as both rewarding and enjoyable, noting the value of sharing Extern’s work on an international platform and learning from colleagues across Europe.
Extern continues to support staff to engage in international learning opportunities and knowledge exchange, strengthening practice and improving outcomes for children, young people, and families.