Who's here to help? Irish Wheelchair Association

The Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) was founded in 1960 by a small group of wheelchair users committed to improving the lives of people with limited mobility. Since then, it has gone on to become one of the largest providers of services such as resource centres, accessible holidays, driving lessons and assisted living services.

Last year, IWA celebrated its 50th anniversary. As part of the celebrations, the Association produced a book, Extraordinary Lives, in which members of varying ages shared their experiences of living with a disability. It was clear from these stories that despite all the positive changes in society, many of the practical and psychological challenges people face as they come to terms with a new disability remain unchanged – issues like finding suitable accommodation, learning to drive, or sourcing appropriate assistance services.

These shared experiences, and the recognised importance of peer support, are a reason why voluntary organisations like IWA and Research & Hope are so important. Today, IWA has 20,000 members and 2,000 staff, as well as many dedicated volunteers. Everyone works together with the aim of improving quality of life for people with disabilities by maximising independence, freedom and choice.

So, if you have recently acquired a physical disability, or someone close to you has, how might IWA be able to help?

Information

IWA's Information Centre can offer advice on IWA services, issues such as transport, mobility aids and appliances, and accessible amenities and holidays.

The centre also processes membership applications and can supply you with an application form if you are interested in joining the Association. Membership is free-of-charge and open to all people with limited mobility (whether or not you are a wheelchair user).

As a member, you will automatically receive IWA's quarterly 68-page magazine, Spokeout, which includes many personal stories about living with a disability, as well as useful information on disability-related issues.

Assisted Living Services

IWA's Assisted Living Services (ALS) provide person-centred, practical support by employing Personal Assistants (PAs) to work directly with people with disabilities in their homes and communities. The role of a Personal Assistant varies in response to the circumstances of each service user, but may include assisting the person to carry out daily tasks like getting ready in the morning, enabling them to participate in social events, or supporting them in an educational or employment setting.

Resource and Outreach Centres

IWA operates a network of Resource and Outreach Centres in every county. These centres offer a range of social, educational and personal development programmes, such as sports, arts and crafts, day excursions, complementary therapies, computer skills and FETAC certificate courses. Accessible transport can often be provided as part of the service.

Motoring

Being able to drive, or having access to a car as a passenger, can make an enormous difference to a person's sense of freedom and independence. Each year, IWA's National Mobility Centre, based in Clane, Co Kildare, assists hundreds of people in learning to drive for the first time, or returning to driving after acquiring a disability. A nationwide driving assessment and tuition service is co-ordinated from the centre, together with an advice and information service covering a range of relevant issues, including the VAT/VRT relief scheme, the Motorised Transport Grant, and suitable adaptations and accessories.

The Disabled Persons' Parking Permit

IWA's National Mobility Centre is authorised to issue the Disabled Persons' Parking Permit to drivers and passengers with disabilities on behalf of the Department of Transport. These permits, which are processed by IWA's National Mobility Centre in Clane, allow holders to legally use all accessible public car parking spaces. The permits are also recognised in many private car parks. Many people with limited mobility find this permit an invaluable resource as they go about their daily tasks.

Housing Support Services

People with disabilities often have very specific housing and accommodation requirements and IWA's Housing Support Service provides information on housing options and works with members to bring about their desired living situation. IWA is also a Voluntary Housing Association and, through its centres in Dublin, Kilkenny, Limerick and Galway, provides a range of housing options, including independent living, training for independent living, and supported independent living.

Wheelchair Sales, Rental and Repair Service

IWA has a Wheelchair Sales, Rental and Repair Service located in Clontarf, Co. Dublin. A selection of new and second hand wheelchairs are for sale, and repairs or routine service checks can be provided. A large stock of wheelchairs is also available for long- or short-term rental at reasonable rates.

Sport

IWA Sport is the national governing body for wheelchair sport in Ireland and aims to develop and promote opportunities for people with physical disabilities to participate in sport at a level of their choice. The ethos of IWA is to encourage everyone to participate, regardless of age, ability or disability.

A sports centre and accessible gym is located in Clontarf, Dublin, and there are many active local clubs around the country. For further information, visit: www.iwasport.com

Holiday Services

Accessible and supported holidays and short breaks are provided at IWA's National Holiday Centre, Cuisle, and at smaller centres in Kilkenny and Tipperary. All of IWA's holiday centres have a person-centred ethos, tailoring holidays to meet the needs of individual guests and providing specialised nursing support where required.

Cuisle is located in the magnificent grounds of Donamon Castle in Co. Roscommon and can cater for up to 70 guests, enabling friends and families to holiday together at any time of the year. For further information, visit: www.cuisle.com.

Further Information and Services

In addition to the above, IWA provides a number of other services, including youth services, advocacy and rehabilitative training. If you would like to find out more about any service, visit www.iwa.ie or get in touch by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or telephoning 01 818 6400.