Child Advocacy Expertise: Mel's career with Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, highlights his dedication to children's welfare:

• Voice for the Voiceless: Fiercely representing children's best interests in crucial decision-making processes and family court.

• Master Case Manager: Conducting comprehensive assessments, crafting personalized care plans, and collaborating with professionals to ensure children’s safety.

• Family Champion: Providing vital resources and interventions through close collaboration with families.

• Courtroom Specialist: Delivering detailed court reports and expert testimony to safeguard children's rights in legal proceedings.

Medical Social Work and Family Advocacy: At St. Vincent’s University Hospital, Mel excelled as a Medical Social Worker across oncology, cardiology, and emergency care:

• Patient and Family Advocate: Prioritizing patients' and families' wishes in all care plans.

• Discharge Maestro: Ensuring seamless transitions from hospital to home with effective discharge plans and support connections.

• Crisis Response Leader: Offering swift, decisive support during medical emergencies.

Residential Care Support for Children: In his roles at Muiriosa Foundation and Nua Healthcare, Mel was a key advocate for children with autism and various disabilities:

• Resource Coordinator: Ensuring access to necessary therapies, educational support, and recreational activities.

• Inclusive Environment Creator: Promoting environments that foster child development and inclusivity.

Bereavement Counselling Experience: Mel gained experience as a Bereavement Counsellor at Our Lady's Hospice Harold's Cross while providing compassionate support:

• Grief Support Specialist: Offering one-on-one and group counselling for children and families facing trauma and grief.

• Peer Support Facilitator: Organizing support groups for shared experiences and mutual support.

• Resource Connector: Linking families to additional services for comprehensive healing.

Cystic Fibrosis Advocacy: As the Senior Social Worker for the National Adult Service for Cystic Fibrosis, Mel was a tireless advocate:

• CF Champion: Securing essential supports, housing, and medications for individuals with CF.

• Research Leader: Spearheading research to enhance the transition from paediatric to adult CF services and presenting findings globally.

• Family Educator: Empowering families with education and support to navigate the challenges of CF.

Leadership Experience: Has acted on occasion as Principal Social Worker at St. Vincent’s University Hospital, Mel demonstrated exceptional leadership:

• Department Leader: Supervising and supporting staff to ensure top-notch teamwork and policy adherence.

• Administrative Pro: Managing workloads and facilitating training to enhance staff skills.

Commitment to Advocacy and Support: Mel’s career is defined by his advocacy for children, individuals with disabilities, and those affected by chronic illnesses. His ability to amplify the voices of vulnerable individuals, represent their best interests, and provide comprehensive support to families underscores his effectiveness and dedication. Mel’s extensive experience, particularly in court settings, and his prowess in crafting impactful court reports, make him a trusted and compassionate advocate. His relentless commitment to social justice, equality, and well-being makes him an invaluable asset to any team.