The children's charity Barnardos has closed all of its offices and services in the Republic of Ireland for a week. It said the decision to close was taken in late 2011 as a cost-saving measure to protect services to children and families. Barnardos said the move is in response to increased financial pressure. The charity said it followed cuts to its statutory income and a decline in voluntary contributions. ‘Our first priority is the children and families we work with’ said Fergus Finlay Barnardos chief executive. ‘This cost cutting measure is the latest in a series of cuts Barnardos has had to make to ensure that we can continue to provide vital services to children and families at a time when they need us most.’

Pray: for the work of Barnardos that it will be enabled to meet the needs of children it helps. (Ps.55:22)

More: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-19255156