Dr Caroline Duignan
Independent Guardian ad Litem - Adolescent & Cultural Specialist
Dr Caroline Duignan is an adolescent and cultural specialist with close to three decades of experience spanning frontline social work, national training, doctoral research, and strategic advocacy for young people. Her PhD from NUI Galway examined power and participation in children's services, and her career has been defined by a commitment to the young people most easily overlooked — Roma youth, LGBTIQ+ young people, young carers, and others whose voices are rarely centred in professional decision-making. At HAPii, Caroline brings a culturally attuned, rights-based, and deeply relational approach to her therapeutic and consultancy work with adolescents, and to supporting the professionals and organisations around them.
Qualifications
2015 - 2023 PhD in Child & Youth Research, NUIG
2003 - 2005 Dip in Training & Education, NUIG
1994 - 1996 Masters in Social Work (NQSW), UCD
1991- 1994 ·Bachelor of Social Science, UCD
Career History
2025 - present GALLORE Guardian ad Litem
2014 - 2025 CYPSC Coordinator Roscommon, Tusla CFA
2011 - 2014 Training Officer, IASW
2002 - 2014 Training Officer (Learning & Development), HSE West Child Care Unit
1997 - 2002 Social Worker – Child Protection & Family Support, North Western Health Board
Key Contributions & Publications
Dr Caroline Duignan’s work spans research, policy, and practice, with a particular emphasis on participation, inclusion, and the voices of seldom-heard young people. Her doctoral research and subsequent practice innovations have informed national approaches to consultation and engagement, particularly with marginalised groups. She has presented her work at European forums, including Eurochild and the Council of Europe, and has contributed to workforce development through the design of national training programmes and practice-based modules for social workers. Her ongoing work with the Department of Children, Disability and Equality continues to shape policy and practice in relation to care-experienced young people in Ireland.
Approach
Dr Caroline Duignan’s approach is grounded in relational, rights-based practice, with a strong emphasis on participation, cultural attunement, and authentic engagement. She works alongside young people in a way that respects their identity, lived experience, and pace, creating space for their voice to emerge safely and meaningfully. Her work integrates developmental understanding with systemic awareness, supporting both young people and the adults around them to navigate complexity, build connection, and promote a stronger sense of belonging.