Steven Peet
Summary
Steven Peet GALLORE Guardian ad Litem has over 15 years of professional experience in child and family advocacy, complemented by more than a decade as a foster carer. His dual perspective as both a practitioner and caregiver equips him with a uniquely comprehensive understanding of the challenges children face within the care system.
Steven's career in child and family social work includes extensive experience supporting children and young people with disabilities, complex needs, and involvement in the criminal justice system. His expertise in the child protection and care system is matched by his unwavering commitment to promoting the rights and well-being of vulnerable children and families.
Now practicing independently, Steven brings a child-centered approach to his work as a Guardian ad Litem. Known for his thorough assessments, grounded analysis, and high-quality court reports, he prioritizes the best interests of children while ensuring their voices are heard in court proceedings.
Steven is also a dedicated advocate for equitable access to services for marginalized families, demonstrating professionalism, ethical integrity, and a compassionate approach in every case. He communicates with children in ways that respect their age, developmental stage, and unique circumstances, engaging them meaningfully in the process.
As part of the GALLORE team, Steven participates in ongoing training and supervision to ensure he remains at the forefront of best practices in child-centered engagement. In addition to his practice, Steven is an active researcher and publisher, with a focus on the impacts of internet and technology addiction on children and families.
Steven is available for Guardian ad Litem appointments in Munster and Leinster, as well as for Voice of the Child Assessments and other private family law reports.
Qualifications
2006 - 2010 Bachelor of Social Work (1st) University College Cork
2011 - 2013 MSc in Primary Care and General Practice, University of Ulster
Career History
2024 - present Practicing as a Guardian Ad Litem
2022 - 2024 Team Lead/Manager, North Lee SWD, Cork.
2019 - 2022 Quality Assurance Officer, TUSLA, DNE/West region.
2017 - 2019 Social Work Team Leader, West Cork SWD.
2010 - 2017 Social Work Practitioner, Child Protection and Welfare.
Further Education & Training
Child Protection & Advocacy - ensuring voice of the child is heard
AGS / TUSLA training in Advanced Cognitive Interviewing
Specialist Interviewer
Case Management & Crisis Intervention
Court Testimony & Report Writing
Family Support & Resource Coordination
Signposting for service users and carers
Risk Assessment
Development and Implementation of Care Plans
Fostering Assessments
Safeguarding Training / Consultancy
Quality Assurance / Auditing
Training and Coaching
Independent Social Work Assessments
Children First: Child Protection Training
AIM2 – Assessment of Problematic Sexualised Behaviour
Advanced Cognitive Interviewing / Qualified Garda Specialist Interviewer
Assessment using the Domestic Violence Inventory Risk Matrix
CASP2 – Responding to Abuse Allegation
Against Carers/Individuals Working with Children