Introduction
The Commission of Investigation is committed to a survivor-centred and trauma-informed approach across all aspects of its work. We recognise that engaging with the Commission, and recalling experiences, may be challenging. Our priority is to ensure that our processes are accessible, respectful, and supportive for all who choose to take part.
Dedicated Survey Participation Support
To support people who are considering taking part in the Commission’s initial survey, we have arranged for a specialist external organisation with expertise in working with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse to provide dedicated participation support. This organisation is One in Four.
This service is available to anyone who is thinking about taking part in the Commission’s first phase. This phase involves completing a survey on experiences or information related to historical child sexual abuse in schools.
The Survey Participation Support Service will include:
- Assistance in making an informed decision about whether to participate
- Answering practical questions about how to complete the survey in Autumn 2026
- Assisting those with additional needs to participate
- Providing clear information about what participation involves
- Providing information about other supports available, including emotional and psychological supports, where required
You can contact One in Four’s Survey Participation Support Service:
- By phone: (01) 611 4654
- By email: coi@oneinfour.ie
Ongoing Support and Further Engagement
Participants in the survey will be invited to indicate their preferences for further engagement with the Commission, including any support needs they may have.
Further information about available supports and how they can be accessed will be provided as the work of the Commission progresses.
Confidential and Independent Service
The Survey Participation Support Service, provided by One in Four, operates independently of the Commission. This is a key safeguard to ensure that individuals can seek advice and support in a confidential and safe environment. Participant Support — and any data gathered by One in Four while delivering this service — is strictly confidential and completely separate from the Commission.
The following points explain how your privacy and consent are protected:
- Any information shared with the support provider will not be passed on to the Commission unless the individual has given express consent.
- If someone decides not to proceed with the survey, their identity will remain completely confidential, and the Commission will not receive any information about them.
This independent support service is designed to empower individuals to explore their options freely, without any obligation to participate.
The Commission is committed to ensuring that everyone who wishes to engage can do so in a way that respects their autonomy, prioritises their wellbeing, and recognises their lived experience.