vision statement mission statement - Ability West

vision statement
Ability West is dedicated to enabling people
with an intellectual disability realise their
dreams and ambitions.
mission statement
Ability West will deliver on its Vision
Statement by doing the following:
Placing service users’ fundamental rights at
the centre of our activities and promoting
those rights.
Empowering service users to live the lifestyle
of their choice and to play a meaningful role
in all aspects of community life.
Listening and then developing a variety of
options that can be used flexibly to meet
the identified needs of service users.
Developing the skills and dedication of
our staff in a supportive and motivating
environment.
Gala Concert, Black Box Theatre, October 2012 – Students from St. Joseph’s
Special School performing ‘Thriller’
Working in active partnership with
service users, families, staff, our voluntary
supporters and the broader community.
Campaigning at local, regional and national
level to resource and realise our vision.
Front Cover Artists:
Galway Hooker
Daniel Goldrick, Snipe Resource Centre
Performers from Milaoise Adult Day Service at the Gala Concert, October 2012
l-r: Jacqui Harley, Cathy Delaney, Caroline Brogan
Red Sails
Margaret Joyce, Beechwood Adult Day Service
Ability West - Fifty Years A sailing
Rachael O’Halloran Geoghegan, Milaoise Adult Day Service
1

contents
Vision and Mission Statements 1
Chairman’s Address 3
Chief Executive’s Review of 2012 4
Board of Directors and Other Information 7
General Information 8
In Memory of Denise O’Neill 8
Visit to Áras an Uachtaráin 9
Our Trip to Thomond Park 9
Cycle-ability Project, Salthill 10
Team, Proud Winners of the All Ireland Drama Competition at the Irish Performing Arts Festival 11
Official Opening of the Mountbellew Resource Centre 12
Official Opening of St. Teresa’s Respite Centre, Ballinasloe 13
Blackrock Adult Day and Active Ageing Services 14
Art Project – Galway SOS 15
A Winning Streak Experience 16
Ability West receives the Excellence Through People Quality Standard Certificate 17
Speech and Language Update 18
Family Networks Update 18
Home Sharing 19
My Home Sharing Family 19
JobBridge National Internship Scheme 20
JobBridge Placement 20
Staff Training 2012 20
Health and Safety Review 2012 21
Volunteer Programme 22
Fundraising and Community Development Report 2012 23
Audited Accounts 25
Summary of Branch Fundraising 28
Ability West – Tracking the history over the past six decades, 1962-2012 29
Acknowledgements 32
2

Chairman’s Address
generously to people with intellectual disability.
We were honoured in 2012 to be chosen as Boston Scientific’s
Charity of the year.
We were also delighted to officially open new day and respite
services in Mountbellew and a respite service in Ballinasloe.
Work continued during the year on the Strategic Plan 2011-2013.
This plan charts the course of the organisation to the end of 2013
when a new plan will then be developed for future years.
Páraic Lawless, Chairman
I am delighted to present the 2012 Annual Report of Ability
West – Éirim an Iarthair. This year’s report marks 50 years of
providing services to children and adults with intellectual
disability in Galway City and County, from 1962 to 2012. The
report also gives us an opportunity to review our performance
in the past year, to look at recent service developments
and to provide detailed financial statements for 2012. To
acknowledge our 50th anniversary, there is an article later in
this report detailing the progression of Ability West through the
past six decades.
In 1961 here in Galway, a group of men and women came
together with a vision, a dream of a better way to care
for children and adults with intellectual disability, or as it
was known at that time, ‘mental handicap’. This led to the
formation of the Galway County Association for Mentally
Handicapped Children in 1962. Today, 50 years on, the
organisation is now known as Ability West – Éirim an Iarthair;
and it has grown from strength to strength, from humble,
small beginnings in 1962 to an organisation that today
provides services and supports to over 520 children and
adults with intellectual disability in 11 geographical locations
in over 50 centres throughout Galway City and County. We
are also patron of four special schools located in Ballinasloe,
Carraroe, Galway City and Tuam.
As part of our anniversary celebrations, we held a Gala
Concert in the Black Box Theatre in October 2012. Over 150
service users showcased their talents in singing, dancing
and performing to a huge audience of parents, families, staff,
volunteers and friends. The feedback from this event has
been extremely positive from everyone and I would like to
acknowledge my fellow Board Member, Paddy Daly, and Cathal
Ryan, Fundraising and Community Development Officer,
for organising and co-ordinating this event. In November
2012 we held an Anniversary Mass in Galway Cathedral to
acknowledge and thank everyone who has been involved
with the organisation over the past 50 years. Afterwards, we
celebrated our official ‘birthday’ in The Ardilaun Hotel and it was
a wonderful occasion to meet so many people who have, over
the years, contributed their time and given their support so
The past five years have been challenging in relation to
funding cuts and 2012 was no different. The Health Service
Executive informed us of a 3.7% cut and a significant amount
of work was undertaken by the organisation in order to
remain within budget. I am delighted to say that frontline
services were maintained and I would like to take this
opportunity to acknowledge and thank the co-operation and
assistance of the management and staff of Ability West for the
careful management of the budget.
Ability West has always relied on the generous support of
volunteers and friends of the organisation and you will see
later in this report many examples of the events and activities
in which they were involved during 2012. We are always very
grateful for their support. Fundraising activities provide us
with funds for capital projects. Without these funds, it would
be difficult to maintain and develop high quality services.
Fundraising events are also important in raising awareness
about intellectual disability and the services we provide.
I would like to acknowledge the support and commitment
of my fellow Board Members. On behalf of the Board of
Directors I would like to thank the Chief Executive, Breda
Crehan-Roche, the Senior Management Team and all the
staff for their hard work and ongoing assistance in providing
services and supports to people with intellectual disability. I
would also like to sincerely thank the branches, volunteers
and friends of Ability West for their dedication and support to
children and adults with intellectual disability.
Mo mhíle buíochas don Phríomh Oifigeach, do bhaill an
Bhoird, do na bainisteoirí agus na stiúrthóirí agus don
fhoireann uile as an sár-obair a chuireann siad isteach ar
son dhaoine faoi mhíchumas intleachtúil ar fud Chontae na
Gaillimhe. Tá mo bhuíochas freisin ag dul do gach éinne
a thug cabhair ar bith, beag nó mór, d’Éirim an Iarthair sa
mbliain atá caite. Go gcuire Dia rath orthu.
Páraic Lawless
Chairman
3

Chief Executive’s Review of 2012
Annual General Meeting
The 50th AGM of Ability West was held in May in St. Joseph’s
Special School, Galway City. The AGM was attended by
approximately 140 people. The guest speaker was Kathleen
Lynch, T.D, Minister of State Department of Health with
responsibility for Disability, Older People, Equality and Mental
Health.
Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief Executive
2012 was a special year which marked the 50th anniversary of the
organisation. There were many celebratory events and activities
held during the year which I will brief on later in my report.
Unfortunately, 2012 was also another challenging year
with a further budgetary cut to our funding of 3.7% being
implemented by the Health Service Executive (HSE). This
amounted to a reduction in our core funding of €836,454
in 2012, the overall budget adjustments since 2008
have amounted to 10.5% which represents a total cut of
€2,429,884, excluding a pay cut of €1,022,401 in 2010. I would
like to acknowledge the co-operation and hard work of staff;
their ongoing support and assistance enabled us to continue
providing efficient, effective and person centred services.
Highlights of 2012
New Developments and Emergencies
Ability West responded to 33 people leaving school. As
there were only 14 vacant rehabilitative training places, the
remaining 19 individuals had to be accommodated in adult
day services without any new additional funding being
received from the HSE. We also responded to a number of
emergencies in 2012 within current resources. The fact that
there was no funding to provide services for people leaving
school in 2012 was a first and proved extremely challenging
for Ability West and families.
Capital Projects
During the year the following capital projects were
undertaken and were only possible through funds from
fundraising activities:
• Two wheelchair accessible bedrooms and bathroom in
Grange View Group Home, Dunmore
• Refurbishment of St. Francis Adult Day Service, Kilkerrin,
• Bathroom extension in Macotar Lodge Group Home, Kilkerrin
• Refurbishment of Snipe Resource Centre, Galway City, to
provide a service for people with complex needs
• An extension to provide additional space and leisure facility
in St. Dympna’s Adult Day Service, Portumna. This was
provided with the assistance of the former Portumna Branch.
4
Paul Cannon, Snipe Resource Centre, presenting a piece of artwork to
Minister of State, Kathleen Lynch, T.D., AGM 2012
Board of Directors’ Elections
The regional representatives nominated to the Board of
Directors were notified to the organisation prior to the AGM
and these were elected as follows:
• Mr. Frank Hannon and Mrs. Mary Lally, North Galway Region
• Mr. Ray Kelly and Mr. Anthony O’Connor, Galway City Region
• Mr. Páraic Lawless and Mrs. Marie O’Dowd, South East
Galway Region
There were no representatives elected from the Connemara
Region as there are currently no active branches in this
region.
Branches and Regions
The Board of Directors met with the South East Galway
Region in March 2012. This was a positive meeting and a
great opportunity for the board members to meet with the
branch and regional members.

Family Networks
Family Networks originated from a pilot project funded under
Genio which came to an end in 2012. Out of that project,
the two networks in Mountbellew and Galway City have
continued and meetings are organised by parents and family
members. Towards the end of 2012, families of children
attending Tigh Nan Dooley Scoil Speisialta decided that they
wanted a similar support network for themselves “Comhludar
le Cheile” and meetings are now taking place regularly. An
article on Family Networks is available later in this report.
Service User Council
I would like to acknowledge and thank the Service User
Council members for their continued work during 2012. We
continue to have regular meetings with the Council Members
and the Chairperson which is very beneficial for service
delivery and development.
Gala Concert, Black Box Theatre, October 2012 –
The Brooklodge Boogie Band
Strategic Plan 2011-2013
Work continued on the implementation of the Strategic Plan
2011-2013; this plan continues to guide the organisation’s
direction.
Official Openings 2012
The Mountbellew Resource Centre which accommodates an
adult day service and a respite service in Mountbellew, Co.
Galway, was officially opened in July.
St. Teresa’s Respite Centre which provides respite to children
in the Ballinasloe area was officially opened in September.
These were both wonderful occasions for the service users,
their families, staff and the local communities in Mountbellew
and Ballinasloe and you will see two articles on these
openings later in this report.
50th Anniversary Gala Concert
As highlighted earlier by the Chairman, this Gala Concert
was held in the Black Box Theatre and tickets sold out in
record time. The concert showcased the performing talents
of children and adults with varying levels of intellectual
disability. The positive feedback from all the participants,
their families, friends, staff and volunteers was testament to
the huge amount of work that was done in organising the
event. Sincere thanks to Mr. Paddy Daly, Mr. Cathal Ryan and
Ms. Carmel Dooley for the significant work they undertook
to bring the concert to fruition and well done to everyone
involved. A DVD was produced which is available for
purchase on our on-line store located on our website.
Ability West Celebrates its 50th Birthday on 22 November 2012
in The Ardilaun Hotel
l-r: Galway City Mayor, Cllr. Terry O’Flaherty, Páraic Lawless, Chairman, Breda
Crehan-Roche, Chief Executive, Ability West, Galway County Mayor,
Cllr. Thomas Welby
50th Anniversary Mass of Celebration
A mass of celebration was held in Galway Cathedral in
November to honour and thank everyone who has been
associated with Ability West for the past 50 years. This was
a special occasion and we were delighted that so many
individuals chose to participate in the mass including service
users, parents, siblings, former and current board members,
branch members, volunteers and former and current staff
members. I would like to take the opportunity to sincerely
thank the Dunmore Choral Society, who provided the music
and singing at this mass. I would like to especially thank Mrs.
Anne Fitzpatrick for playing the harp during the mass, she
was also instrumental in organising the mass with Ms. Carol A.
Browne, sincere thanks to both. A post mass celebration was
held in The Ardilaun Hotel and a large crowd joined us from
the mass to celebrate the official ‘birthday’ of Ability West. A
lovely night was had by all with many old and new friends
spending time to catch up with one another.
5

50th Anniversary Staff Conference
A staff conference was held in November 2012 to celebrate
and acknowledge the work of our staff. This was an
important event to brief the staff on the future challenges
the organisation is facing, the changing environment of the
Intellectual Disability sector and the Health sector as a whole.
Training
Despite the challenging economic climate essential training
courses were provided for staff during 2012. It is important
that we create a culture of continuous learning and that we
continually invest in staff development so that services and
high quality standards are maintained.
Best Buddies and So Can I
The annual Best Buddies Ball was held in May with awards
presented on the night to the various Buddies. The Best
Buddies College Programmes in NUI Galway and Galway-
Mayo Institute of Technology continued in 2012 and these
have been a great success.
The So Can I programme, a disability awareness programme,
continued to be rolled out to schools in County Galway.
Fundraising
I would like to thank the many people involved in our events
and those who have contributed towards our fundraising
events. In particular I would like to acknowledge and thank the
staff of Boston Scientific who chose Ability West as their ‘Charity
of Choice 2012’. During the year they held many fundraising
events and in total raised €70,000 for Ability West. Staff at
Boston Scientific also undertook significant improvements
at one of our residential services, Glen Haven in Galway City,
which benefited from €14,000 worth of works to the house,
driveway and garden. A report on fundraising and community
development appears later in this report. Proceeds raised from
fundraising enables us to carry out necessary maintenance
works to our services and also to develop new services.
Bereavements
Regrettably, we had a number of service user bereavements
in 2012: Amy Blum, Oliver Flanagan, Anthony Gallagher and
Denise O’Neill. May they rest in peace. Sadly, many of our
service users, families, staff, branch, board members and
volunteers also experienced bereavements and we extend
our deepest condolences and sympathies to them.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Chairman,
Páraic Lawless, board members and sub-committee members
for their support and ongoing guidance during the year. I
would like to thank our service users, their parents and
families for their ongoing co-operation. Special thanks to
members of the Senior Management Team, P.A. to Chief
Executive, Area Services Managers, Assistant Directors of
6
Boston Scientific presenting Ability West, their ‘Chosen Charity 2012’ with a
cheque for €70,000 at a celebration on 8th February 2013 in the Clayton Hotel
l-r: Anna Lawless, Member of Boston Scientific Charity Committee, Mike Murphy,
Director of HR, Boston Scientific, Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief Executive,
Páraic Lawless, Chairman, Ability West
Finance and HR, Department Heads, Managers, Unit Directors,
staff, branch members and volunteers for their ongoing
dedication and commitment to people with intellectual
disability.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the HSE,
statutory, non-statutory and voluntary service providers
for their ongoing co-operation and assistance. There is no
doubt that the future will challenge but it will also provide
opportunities for service providers to be more creative,
flexible, to be truly person centred and to empower service
users to have more control and choice in their daily lives.
The National Implementation Framework of the Value For
Money and Policy Review of Disability Services in Ireland
report was published in early 2013 and this will, among other
developments and the economic climate, undoubtedly
pose challenges to achieve efficiencies through increased
collaboration and sharing of resources.
We are very grateful to everyone who has supported us
through the years and we are delighted that many of you
joined us in celebrating our 50 year success story during 2012.
Ba mhaith liom buíochas a ghabháil leis an gCathaoirleach,
leis an mBord Stiúrthóirí agus le baill uile na bhfochoistí as
a dtacaíocht agus a dtreoir le linn 2012. Ba mhaith liom
buíochas a ghabháil freisin leo siúd a d’fhreastal agus a bhain
úsáid as ár seirbhísí, leis na tuismitheoirí agus a gclanna. Ba
mhaith liom buíochas a ghabháil le baill uile na gCraobh as
ucht a gcuid tacaíochta, leis an bhFoireann Bainistíochta, le
Stiúrthóirí na nIonad, leis an bhFoireann agus leis na hOibrithe
Deonacha, as ucht seirbhís den scoth a chuir ar fáil.
Breda Crehan-Roche
Chief Executive

Board of Directors
(as at 31 December 2012)
NAME
DIRECTOR
Mr. P. Lawless
Mrs. A. Bane
Mr. P. Daly
Mr. K. Flavin
Mr. F. Hannon
Mr. R. Kelly
Mr. J. King
Mrs. M. Lally
Mr. P.J. Murphy
Mr. A. O’Connor
Mrs. M. O’Dowd
Mrs. M. O’Mahony
Mrs. B. Crehan-Roche
Ms. C.A. Browne
Chairman and Elected Director
Co-opted Director
Co-opted Director
Co-opted Director
Regional Director
Regional Director
Co-opted Director
Regional Director
Co-opted Director
Regional Director
Regional Director
Co-opted Director
Company Secretary and Chief Executive
Recording Secretary
Board of Directors
l-r: Mary O’Mahony, Frank Hannon, Mary Lally, Kevin Flavin, Páraic Lawless, Ray
Kelly, Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief Executive, P.J. Murphy, Marie O’Dowd, Jack
King, Anthony O’Connor
Missing from photo: Angela Bane and Paddy Daly
Sub-Committees of the Board of Directors
FINANCE COMMITTEE VISITING COMMITTEE AUDIT COMMITTEE
Mr. K. Flavin, Chairman All Board Members Mr. P. Daly
Mrs. B. Crehan-Roche
Mr. J. O’Dea
Mr. P. Lawless
Mr. J. McHugo
Mrs. M. O’Dowd
Mrs. M. O’Mahony
Senior Management Team
Mrs. B. Crehan-Roche, Chief Executive
Mr. A. Harney, Director of Human Resources
Mr. G. Haslam, Director of Client Services
Mr. J. McHugo, Director of Finance
Ms. C.A. Browne, P.A. to Chief Executive and Recording Secretary
Senior Management Team
l-r: John McHugo, Carol A. Browne, Adrian Harney, Breda Crehan-Roche,
Gerry Haslam
7

General Information
Solicitors
Kieran Murphy & Co., Solicitors, 9 The Crescent, Galway
Bank
Bank of Ireland, Mainguard Street, Galway
Auditors
Crescent Accountancy Group, Chartered Accountants,
Steamship House, Dock Street, Galway
In Memory of Denise O’Neill
By Mary Foyle, Unit Director, Criost Linn
Denise O’Neill attended Criost Linn Adult Day Service for
many years. Denise never complained and had a great sense
of humour. She was very popular with staff and all her peers
in Criost Linn. Denise was well known in Clifden and she
enjoyed having the craic and a chat. She was always smiling,
had beautiful blue eyes and loved fashion. Denise is greatly
missed by everyone in Criost Linn. May she rest in peace.
Registered Office
Blackrock House, Salthill, Galway
Ability West is a Company limited by guarantee, registered
no. 41317. Ability West is registered with the Revenue
Commissioners as a Charity under Registration No. CHY6306
and is also approved for the Scheme of Tax Relief for
Donations to Eligible Charities and other Approved Bodies
under Section 848A Taxes Consolidation 1997 under Tax No.
2237226Q.
Éirim an Iarthair is a registered Business Name under the
Registration of Business Names Act, 1963, Registered No.
335139.
Ability West is an equal opportunities employer.
Ability West, Company Name, and Éirim an Iarthair, Business
Name, hereafter referred to as Ability West in this annual
report.
Denise O’Neill
Ability West, Excellence Through People, 2012 accredited,
National Standards Authority of Ireland
This annual report was project managed by Ms. Carol A.
Browne, P.A. to Chief Executive.
8

Visit to Áras an Uachtaráin
By Ann Beirne, Active Ageing Service
Our Trip to Thomond Park
By Joseph Lynch, Service User, Galway SOS
President Michael D. Higgins hosted the first Senior Citizens
reception in Áras an Uachtaráin on 20 March 2012. Service
users from the Active Ageing Service of Ability West were
invited to attend this reception and to meet with the
President. Everyone was so excited about this event and we
took the early train to Dublin to ensure we would not be late.
The President welcomed everyone individually and we had
an opportunity to have photographs taken with him. During
lunch the President welcomed Active Retired Groups from
all over Ireland, he said he had a very special welcome for
the group from Ability West as they are celebrating their
50th anniversary year. There was also great entertainment
from musicians and singers. Quotes from service users who
attended the event: “We were treated like royalty.” “It was one
of the best days I ever had.” “It was a day I will never forget.” “It
was the perfect day.”
My friends and I went on a trip to Limerick in June 2012, the
best part of the trip for me was visiting Thomond Park Rugby
Ground. Thomond Park is a very big stadium in Limerick City
and it is home to Munster Rugby and Paul O’Connell. We
toured the stadium and saw all the awards they have won.
There was no match on that day but we got to sit in the
stands. We had a fantastic day there and I would definitely go
again, hopefully it will not be raining the next time we visit!
Our Trip to Thomond Park
Back l-r: Noel Tierney, John Dooley, Joseph Lynch, Kris Weerakoon
Front: Gabriel Richardson
Active Ageing Service visits Áras an Uachtaráin
l-r: Marie Keaveney, Des Fitzpatrick, Ann Beirne, Sean McDonnell, President
Michael D. Higgins, Orla Kearns, Mairead Brennan, Rose Madden, Michael O’Brien
Members of the Galway SOS Performers during dress rehearsal for the Gala
Concert, October 2012
Back l-r: Lorraine Hession, Gisele Flannery, Theresa Feeney
Front l-r: Gail Kieran, Fiona Gilligan, Jenny Keaveney
9

Cycle-ability Project, Salthill
By Renjith Joseph, Physiotherapy Manager
We commenced the ‘Cycle-ability’ project in Salthill in
November 2011 with specialised tandem tricycles and a
wheelchair tricycle. Cycling is a great activity for postural
management, for improving balance, co-ordination and
head control. Service users also build up confidence and it is
fantastic to see the enjoyment on their faces.
Cycling is something generally not available to people with
disabilities. However, the adapted tricycles are adjusted for
their special requirements, regardless of level of ability or
mobility. Cycling offers the potential to enrich the lives of
service users, while also promoting good health. This cycling
project is giving people with intellectual disability a chance
to improve their physical health and boost their mental
wellbeing.
Cycle-ability on The Prom
l-r: Aidan Dillon and Ciaran Morris
Chelsea Gardiner, St. Joseph’s Special School –
Galway City Council Environment Calendar Art Competition Prizewinner
Jack Kennedy, St. Joseph’s Special School –
Galway Advertiser Christmas Art Competition 2012 Prizewinner
10

Team, Proud Winners of the All Ireland Drama Competition at the
Irish Performing Arts Festival
By Mary Margaret Garvey, Senior Instructor, Team
Team, an Adult Day Service in Tuam, took part in the Irish
Performing Arts Festival (IPAF) in Cork in 2012. The IPAF
is about creativity, inclusion, collective and individual
experiences and the arts. It provides opportunities for artists
from all backgrounds to share skills and develop relationships.
The IPAF showcases the outstanding talents and abilities of
people with intellectual disability and autism.
The drama group has worked tirelessly over the years under
the directorship of drama teacher, Sylvia Nolan. In the past
they have performed short comedy sketches but in 2012
they performed an interpretation of an old Irish legend, “The
Children of Lir”. On the day, there was stiff competition from
organisations from all over Ireland.
When “The Children of Lir” was announced as the winner,
the excitement was unbelievable. The next day the winners
arrived back in Team accompanied by a Garda escort. Staff,
family and friends organised a huge party and celebrations
continued for days. The winning performers were, Marie
Roche, Tony Ward, David Warde, Breda Nicholson, Anthony
Connolly, Rose Marie Martin, Kathleen Harran, Martin Douglas,
Martin Shaughnessy, Noel Langan, Nicola Brennan, Teresa
Mullins, Michael Feerick, Pat McDonagh and Mary Mullins.
They were supported in Cork by Mary Margaret Garvey, Tony
Goldrick, Susan Coady, Marie Miskell and Dominica Healy.
In July, a night of celebration and music was held in the Ard
Rí Hotel, Tuam, with music provided by local musicians and
the winning short play was performed. They also performed
at the 50th Anniversary Gala Concert in the Black Box Theatre.
Team, Ability West and Tuam can be proud of our performers
and for winning this All-Ireland Trophy. The drama group is
already rehearsing for the 2013 trip to Cork to defend their
All-Ireland title.
Team, Proud Winners of the All Ireland Drama Competition at the Irish Performing Arts Festival
11

Official Opening of the Mountbellew Resource Centre,
20 July 2012
By Aoife Murray, Manager, Mountbellew Adult Day
Service
It was a beautiful summer’s morning that greeted us on the
day of our official opening. All the preparations were in place,
decorations hung, tables set for the party and we were eager
to get our big day under way.
Yvonne Jordan, Service User, began proceedings by
welcoming everyone to the official opening ceremony.
Michael Mullins, Service User, then spoke about what the
service in Mountbellew means to him and his fellow service
users. As part of the official proceedings, Breda Crehan-
Roche, Chief Executive, Páraic Lawless, Chairman and Cllr.
Thomas Welby, Mayor of County Galway addressed the
attendees. Fr. Padraig O’Connor, Parish Priest blessed the
centre. The centre was officially opened by the cutting of the
ribbon by the Chairman, Páraic Lawless, Denise McHugh and
Patrick Lee, Service Users.
The event was a lovely celebration with service users, families,
public representatives, staff, representatives from Galway
Rural Development Co. Ltd., and many neighbours and
friends. Thank you to everyone who attended the big day, it
made it all the more special to have so many join with us to
celebrate our official opening. Some of the comments from
service users about the event: “I enjoyed meeting people”, “I
liked seeing the tape being cut”, “I liked doing a speech at the
opening”.
Official opening of the Mountbellew Respite Centre, a day and respite service for adults with an intellectual disability on Friday, 20 July 2012
Front l-r: Denise McHugh, Service User, Páraic Lawless, Chairman, Ability West, Patrick Lee, Service User
Back l-r: Mayor of County Galway, Cllr. Thomas Welby, Aoife Murray, Unit Director, Adult Day Service, Deputy Paul Connaughton, Leas Ceann Comhairle, Micheal Kitt,
Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief Executive, Ability West, Ciara Donoghue Clarke, Unit Director, Adult Respite Service.
12

Official Opening of St. Teresa’s Respite Centre, Ballinasloe
21 September 2012
By Orla Haddigan, Unit Director
The official opening of our refurbished children’s respite
centre took place on a sunny Friday in September. This centre
had previously accommodated St. Teresa’s Child Education
and Development Centre for many years and then St. Teresa’s
Special School for a couple of years prior to renovation.
There was a fabulous atmosphere and a great sense of
achievement from all involved and the respite centre is
continuing to provide a much needed break for families
and an opportunity for the children to have experiences in a
home from home environment.
A big crowd turned up for the occasion and we were
delighted to see so many families and friends joining us
for the event. Cllr. Thomas Welby, Mayor of County Galway
and Cllr. Carmel Grealy, Mayor of Ballinasloe were also
in attendance. In particular, we were delighted to have
Honorary Member and former Chairperson and Director of
Services, and former member of the Ballinasloe Branch, Mr.
Peadar Burns join with us to officially open the centre. Peadar
was ably assisted by two children who avail of respite in St.
Teresa’s, Ilya Manning and Alan O’Hara in cutting the ribbon.
Fr. John Garvey and Rev. George Flynn blessed the centre.
Official opening of St. Teresa’s Respite Centre, Ballinasloe on Friday, 21 September 2012
Front l-r: Alan O’Hara, Peadar Burns, Ilya Manning, Orla Haddigan, Unit Director, St. Teresa’s Respite Centre
Middle l-r: Mayor of Ballinasloe, Cllr. Carmel Grealy, Mayor of County Galway, Cllr Thomas Welby, Breda Crehan-Roche, CEO, Ability West, Páraic Lawless, Chairman, Ability West
Back l-r: Cllr. Pat O’Sullivan, Senator John Kelly, Deputy Paul Connaughton
13

Blackrock Adult Day and Active Ageing Services
By Anne Fitzpatrick, Manager
The Gala Concert, October 2012
All of the service users attending Blackrock Adult Day Service
and Active Ageing performed so beautifully (apart from a few
who exerted their assertiveness on the night and decided
they preferred the practices and process of it all rather than
performing for an audience). That maestro performance in
the Black Box Theatre will stay in our memories forever! The
support from group homes was phenomenal with some
staff being asked to go on stage at the last minute. The
support and caring role that service users from Active Ageing
provided to service users from Blackrock Adult Day Service
could teach us all a lesson on nurturing and empowering
each other. Some testimonials from parents of individuals
who have significant high support needs with additional
complex needs as they were about to make their debut
appearance: “Mary being centre stage in the Black Box is
beyond our wildest dreams’’, ‘’I never thought I would see the
day when my daughter would be on stage’’, ‘’I never knew
he was so talented’’. The performance was produced by staff
members who work with the service users on a daily basis,
particular thanks to Vicky and Susan who lent their artistic
expertise to the overall production of the show.
National University of Ireland Galway Orchestra
Following their debut appearance, the ‘Blackrock Ensemble’
was invited to perform with the National University of Ireland
(NUIG) Orchestra at their annual concert with all proceeds
going to Blackrock Adult Day Services. Many thanks to the
orchestra, indeed many of its members and its audience later
informed us that they learned the true meaning and essence
of what music really is. We were so very proud of them that
night but indeed we are proud of them every day and of their
subtle achievements. Without volunteers, it would have been
impossible to co-ordinate our participation in the
event. Ciaran, our musician, gave his time so willingly every
week nurturing individuals’ special talent. Another volunteer
drove to and from various group homes and NUIG on six
occasions that night. Congratulations to every service user
who performed with such virtuoso and congratulations
to those service users who worked so hard and more
importantly enjoyed those many practices but chose not to
perform on that particular night.
Acting Ageing
The Tirellan community has given such a warm welcome to
their neighbours from the Active Ageing Service and indeed
many friendships have been formed over the past year. Service
users in Active Ageing have created a real sense of the true
meaning of community with support from Ann and Lorraine.
Feeding, Eating, Drinking and Swallowing
Assessments (FEDS)
Many service users in Blackrock Adult Day Service have had
FEDS completed by the Speech and Language Department
throughout the year which has proved to be very successful.
Support from the Psychology and Positive Behaviour Support
Departments have also been instrumental in supporting
service users and staff. However, it is the ongoing support
from frontline staff and working alongside some incredible
individuals on a daily basis that truly make Blackrock Adult
Day and Active Ageing Services a privilege to work in.
Blackrock Adult Day and Active Ageing Service performing with the NUIG Orchestra
14

Art Project – Galway SOS
By Noel Tierney, Service User
In art we do lots of different projects and this photo shows
the collage we made in October and November, it is a collage
of Sean Folan. Sean lay on the ground while we traced him
out. It was great fun to do. We painted different colours on
pieces of paper then cut them into small pieces and stuck
them onto the picture. It is hanging in the art room at our
service in Liosbán.
Art Project – Galway SOS
15

A Winning Streak Experience
By Orla Carroll, Person Centred Plan (PCP) Facilitator
Dominic Conneely, who lives in Oldfield Group Home,
expressed an interest to go and visit the RTÉ Winning Streak
programme as one of his Person Centred Plan (PCP) goals.
Dominic has watched Winning Streak since he was very
young and never misses it on a Saturday night. Oldfield staff
emailed RTÉ on Dominic’s behalf stating his request. The
RTÉ producers were very happy to accommodate Dominic’s
request and they invited Dominic and a friend to be members
of the audience on the Winning Streak programme on 8
December 2012.
Dominic chose to bring his friend, David O’ Sullivan, and on
8 December Dominic, David and staff members, Orla Carroll
and Sarah O’ Connor from Oldfield went to the RTÉ studios in
Dublin. We attended a party before the show and afterwards
we were shown around the Winning Streak studio. Dominic
and David met with the show presenters, Geri Maye and
Marty Whelan, who were very friendly and allowed us to get
lots of photos with them. The show was great fun and we
all had a brilliant time cheering on the contestants. Dominic
really enjoyed the show and we later watched a re-run of
ourselves on TV.
At Winning Streak, December 2012
l-r: Geri Maye, RTÉ, David O’Sullivan, Oldfield, Marty Whelan, RTÉ, Dominic Conneely, Oldfield
16

Ability West receives the Excellence Through People Quality
Standard Certificate
By Adrian Harney, Director of Human Resources
Ability West received the Excellence Through People Quality
Standard Certificate at an awards presentation ceremony on
27 November 2012. The awarding of this quality standard
followed a three day audit by an NSAI Assessor in June 2012.
The Excellence Through People Quality Standard is managed
by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI). The
awards were presented by Minister of State for Small Business,
Mr. John Perry T.D. The Minister joined Mr. Maurice Buckley,
CEO, NSAI, in presenting this award to Breda Crehan-Roche,
Chief Executive, and Adrian Harney, Director of Human
Resources, Ability West.
Excellence Through People is Ireland’s national quality
standard in relation to staff and the working environment.
This will help us benchmark how we manage and operate
staff related issues in Ability West to practices in operation
in other organisations. Since its development the standard
has grown in popularity with both the services and
manufacturing industrial sectors and in public and private
sector organisations. Well done to all staff on achieving this
quality standard.
Ability West provides a wide range of services and supports
to over 520 people with intellectual disability throughout
Galway City and County. All of our staff are instrumental in
providing these services and all can be proud of the quality
of the services we provide and in particular the part each
employee plays in working with service users. However, we
are continuously striving to improve the quality of the services
we provide to service users and we recognise the importance
of creating a good working environment for our staff. The
awarding of the Excellence Through People Standard for the
organisation complements the work already in hand in relation
to Person Centred Planning, National Quality Standards, FETAC
Accreditation in addition to the ISO Standard.
Ability West receiving the Excellence Through People Quality Standard
l-r: Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief Executive, Adrian Harney, Director of Human Resources, Ability West, Maurice Buckley, Chief Executive, NSAI, Minister of State for Small
Business, John Perry T.D.
17

Speech and Language Update
By Niamh Sheehan, Speech and Language Therapist
Family Networks Update
By Colette Daly, Head of Social Work & Family Services
The Speech and Language Therapy Department had a busy
year; a new adult Feeding, Eating, Drinking and Swallowing
service was introduced, Lámh and social skills training was
provided, collaborative work with other multi-disciplinary
team members on various assignments and ongoing work
was done on accessible information.
Another venture included the rolling out of training which
resulted in 40 staff receiving accreditation using Talking
Mats®. Talking Mats is a visual framework which uses picture
symbols to help people with communication difficulties.
This tool can be used across a range of areas for children and
adults and the Speech and Language Therapy Department
are using Talking Mats to explore issues such as transitioning
from schools to adult services, difficulties occurring at home/
day/respite, behavioural issues, choice making regarding
daily programmes and person centred planning work. This
is being done by training instructors, care staff, psychologists
and other relevant staff within Ability West to advocate
and implement the use of Talking Mats. This ensures that
staff working regularly with the individual can support the
experience of communication in a more meaningful way.
Talking Mats is used by the Speech and Language Therapy
Department. Niamh Sheehan, Accredited Talking Mats
Trainer, provided this training which is increasingly being used
by staff. Feedback from the training thus far indicates that
staff find it is a “very useful technique”. It allows staff to feel
“more skilled” and the service user to feel “empowered”. Staff
say they can see scope for using this approach in a variety of
ways in all services. They have indicated that they will use
Talking Mats to carry out work on Person Centred Plans, to
develop their relationships with service users, to get to the
core of issues that might be happening, to deliver FETAC
accredited programmes, to help people make choices and to
give services users an additional way of communicating.
Family Networks are now in existence in Galway City,
Mountbellew and Carraroe. Family Networks originated
from a pilot project funded under Genio which came to an
end in 2012. Since the project ceased the two networks
in Mountbellew and Galway City have continued and their
events/meetings are now organised by parents and family
members. Towards the end of 2012, families of children
attending Tigh Nan Dooley Scoil Speisialta, An Cheathrú
Rua decided that they wanted a similar support network for
themselves and set up “Comhludar le Cheile” and meetings
are now taking place regularly.
The aim of Family Networks is to provide a relaxed
environment for families to come together to discuss
common issues. The objective is to empower families
by offering mutual support through information sharing
between family members, problem solving together and
providing a forum for sharing information about initiatives
within Ability West and policies nationally. The meetings
in Galway City take place in Galway SOS. The Mountbellew
meetings take place in the Mountbellew Resource Centre and
the Carraroe Network meets in Tigh Nan Dooley.
A Family Networks email and texting service has been
set up for parents and family members which means that
information about network meetings and other information
or meetings which would be relevant to families can be
circulated easily and quickly. Three quarters of Ability West
service users live at home with their families who are their
greatest support. Ability West aims to support families and to
work in partnership with them in initiatives which assist them
in their caring and support role.
Service Users from Criost Linn ADS, Clifden, visit Connemara Community Radio
l-r: Hugh O’Toole, Mary Joyce, Keith O’Malley, John Conneely
Among the almost 82,000 who attended the 2012 All Ireland Hurling Final were five
service users from Ability West, thanks to the generosity of AIB Bank
Front l-r: Brid Duggan, Des Fitzpatrick
Back l-r: John Shaughnessy, Aisling Mulryan, John Walsh, Regina Cahill
18

Home Sharing
By Kieran Keon, Social Worker
The Home Sharing Scheme is a support service, developed
jointly by Ability West and the Brothers of Charity Services
Galway, which provides much needed host family placements
to adults and children with intellectual disability throughout
Galway City and County. The scheme has been providing
placements since 1985. Both organisations also independently
provide supports and services to people with intellectual
disability and their families throughout their lifecycle.
Why consider Home Sharing
• To provide short breaks to adults and children with
intellectual disability
• To provide a “natural” living option to adults with
intellectual disability
• To respond to the needs of natural families
• To strengthen family relationships
• To give individuals and families greater control and choice
in the support service they receive
• To provide a break for the carer whilst being a positive
experience for the person with the disability
• To give service providers the flexibility to deliver services in
ways that respond to the needs of respite users, their carers
and families
With host families the person seeking the service is carefully
matched with a person/family that often have common
interests and hobbies. The person with the disability is very
much part of this process. The natural family often build up
positive relationships with the host families.
The following arrangements operate under the Home Sharing
Scheme:
Home Sharing (short breaks) is a family based scheme which
involves a family in the community taking a child or adult
with intellectual disability into their home for short breaks
and caring for that person as a member of their family.
to the illness of his parents and subsequent passing of his
father (RIP). John was availing of a crisis respite placement
but it was evident that he was suited to Home Sharing as
he was already availing of one night per week with another
host family. John very quickly made himself at home with
the Burke’s and it was evident that the Burke’s were the right
match for John. He now lives full-time with the Burke family.
He still avails of minimal respite in Doughiska Respite Centre
in order for him to go on social outings with his friends. All
of the Burke family members support John to be a part of
their family and he sees them as his family. Bernie and Eamon
continue to support John to visit his mother regularly and
say that their social lives have “gotten very busy” since John
moved in with them as he likes to keep in touch with all of his
family, friends and neighbours.
My Home Sharing Family
By John Dooley
I like to spend time with my Home Sharing family, Bernie
and Eamon and their two children, Leah and Brian. They live
in Attymon which is near Ballinasloe. I live with Bernie and
Eamon most of the time but I also spend some weekends in
Doughiska Respite Centre. I like spending time with Bernie and
Eamon as we have a lot in common. I like to have breakfast in
the morning with Bernie before I go to work on the bus. In the
evening I like to help to do the chores around the house like
bringing in the turf for the fire and we like to watch the same
programmes, like Eastenders and Emmerdale. They have a
lovely house and it is very lively. Leah and Brian like to listen to
music and they play “The Galway Girl” for me because it is my
favourite. At the weekends I like to go shopping with Bernie
for the groceries and we look around the shops. Bernie helps
me to choose clothes as I like to look smart and I like when
people in work tell me I look very smart in my new clothes.
Bernie also brings me to visit my mother in the nursing home
at the weekend. When we are relaxing at the weekend, we will
have a glass of wine. Bernie and Eamon are very nice people
and I am very happy to be staying with them.
Contract Families is where a family offers substantial
time to people with intellectual disability who have extra
requirements (such as a physical disability), by offering 10, 16
or 20 placements per month to a number of people.
Shared Living is where an adult with intellectual disability lives
full-time on a permanent basis (with short breaks support to
another family if necessary).
Ability West’s First Shared Living Family
The Home Sharing Scheme has been successful in setting up
its first formalised “Shared Living” family for Mr. John Dooley.
John avails of Ability West services and he started home
sharing with the Burke family (from Attymon) in 2012 due
John with his home sharing family, the Burke’s.
19

JobBridge National Internship
Scheme
By Fidelma Burke, FÁS CE Scheme Supervisor
This year Ability West was selected as a sponsor for the
JobBridge National Internship Scheme, a scheme which can
provide work experience placements for interns for periods of
six and nine months. The aim of the National Internship Scheme
is to assist in breaking the cycle where jobseekers are unable
to get a job without experience, either as new entrants to the
labour market after education or training or as unemployed
workers wishing to learn new skills. The scheme gives people a
real opportunity to gain valuable experience to bridge the gap
between study and the beginning of their working lives.
Since the beginning of this scheme Ability West has had
interns placed in various departments throughout the
organisation. The placements have proven to be very
beneficial to both Ability West and the interns and as a direct
result of spending time on the programme, a number of
the interns have been successful in finding employment in
the open labour market. We plan to continue to explore
opportunities for further placements under the JobBridge
Scheme in the future.
JobBridge Placement
By Eleanor Ryan, Intern
I am an Architect with over ten years’ experience. I qualified
from University College Dublin and since then have worked
in Dublin, Galway and Sligo. I was delighted to take up the
JobBridge opportunity with Ability West. I found it of great
interest that there were so many facilities under the care and
ownership of the organisation. During my placement I have
gained valuable experience surveying the centres in relation
to fire safety and preparing evacuation plans. I also
carried out a number of centre specific Health and Safety Risk
Assessments during my time with Ability West. I have gained
insight into designing facilities for people with disabilities
across the whole spectrum of services provided. I had great
support in my role within the organisation. It has been a most
enjoyable experience and I will always cherish the links I made
with the people of Ability West. I have now moved to a new
position as Architect with a local Architect firm in Galway City.
Staff Training 2012
By Alacoque Morris, Training Co-ordinator
Staff training and development is critically important in the
delivery of high quality services to service users and is an area
where we have set objectives to be achieved in our Strategic
Plan 2011-2013. Despite the severe financial constraints
we faced in 2012 we continued to provide mandatory and
other essential training to many of our staff during the year.
The range of training used a mix of in-house and external
trainers. The training programmes included: Non Violent
Crisis Intervention, Client Protection - Children First, Client
Protection – Adults, Occupational First Aid Refresher, Buccal
Midazolam Instruction, Lámh, Talking Mats Accredited Trainers,
Person Centred Planning Facilitator, Human Rights Awareness,
Induction, Quality Management Information System (QMIS),
Manual Handling, Medication Trainers Refresher, Medication
Administration, Records Management, Social Media Usage,
Interviewing Skills, National Quality Standards, Management
Skills, Change Management, Staff Conference to mark Ability
West’s 50th anniversary, Train the Trainer, Risk Management
and Manual Handling E-learning Pilot.
We continue to use Core HR to manage our training function.
This is of major benefit to us in the scheduling of courses and
in maintaining a training history for each employee. These
training records are extremely beneficial in looking at training
needs and in planning training for the future.
During 2012 we provided FETAC accredited Train the Trainer
training to a group of in-house trainers. The Ability West
Training Links Network, established in 2008, received some
additional funding from The Wheel in 2012 in order to
provide training on a shared service basis. With this funding
we have provided training in key areas that otherwise we
would not be in a position to avail of. The network is a
shared service and is made up of 14 organisations. With the
bringing together of similar organisations there is obviously
opportunity to explore options for conjoint working and
shared services in the training and human resources areas.
Eleanor Ryan
20

Health and Safety Review 2012
By Therese King, Health, Safety & Risk Management
Officer
Accident and Incident Reporting
The on-line accident/incident reporting system introduced in
2011 as part of the Quality Management Information System
(QMIS) has provided us with qualitative data in relation to the
number and type of incidences which occurred in our centres
during the past year. The number of incidences reported
continues to rise. However, this is attributed to the increased
vigilance on behalf of staff, familiarisation with the system
and awareness of the value of recording of incidences and
data interrogation which can be of assistance to the various
departments within Ability West.
Statistics for 2012 showed that behaviours that challenge,
slips/trips/falls and medication incidences are the three
highest incident types. While the number of incidences
of behaviours that challenge has risen, this is directly
attributed to awareness of the need for comprehensive
information regarding service users exhibiting behaviours
that challenge. The number of slips/trips/falls has also
risen and a breakdown of this category shows that among
service users, mobility/health related issues and seizure
related falls are the predominant sub-categories. This type of
information will facilitate the review of service user mobility
related issues by members of the Physiotherapy Department.
Medication incidences have decreased but the main area
where medication incidences arise is in Respite Centres, when
medication from home is not sent in with the details required
as per the Ability West Management of Medication Policy. Staff
are required to report all instances where there is insufficient
medication, incorrect labelling/packaging, etc. Staff are to be
commended on their vigilance in ensuring that service users’
medication is managed correctly.
Safety and Risk Management
Both the Safety and Risk Management Committee and the
Safety Committee met a number of times during the year to
review areas of risk and items referred to the committees. Up
to date risk assessments were carried out in all centres during
the year and sincere thanks is extended to the staff that
assisted in this regard.
The move to a single provider for the servicing of fire and
intruder alarms throughout our centres has been most
beneficial in terms of cost reduction and the service provided.
Thanks to Pierce Butler, Facilities & Transport Manager for work
in this regard.
Health and Safety Related Training
The ongoing commitment to health and safety related
training, despite the current economic situation, is very
important in maintaining high quality services for service users.
Gabriel Burke, Palace Fields Group Home, meets ‘Big Tom’ in the Salthill Hotel
as part of one of his Person Centred Planning goals, November 2012
21

Volunteer Programme
By Linda Keane, Volunteer Programme Manager
The Volunteer Programme is about engaging with Ability
West services and most importantly, service users. It is
about having fun and sharing that fun with a person with
intellectual disability. Volunteers find volunteering with
Ability West to be flexible and rewarding. The opportunity
to make a positive difference to the life of another person is
always very satisfying at every level.
The motto for volunteers is “think about what you enjoy
doing and share it with others”. Volunteers bring an array of
talents, enthusiasm and energy. They have the opportunity
to work with staff in improving the skills of people with
intellectual disability or be a part of our engagement within
communities by participating in local activities. The role of
volunteering creates memories which last a lifetime! Other
volunteers befriend a person with intellectual disability.
Everyone wants a friend to share their life with and many
volunteers will tell you that the befriending programme is a
very special part of their lives.
Ability West currently has over 200 male and female
volunteers who facilitate activities focused around personal
choice such as swimming, yoga, bowling or doing social
activities. Many share their talents, skills and interests with
service users and some are involved in art programmes,
drama and music sessions. Others are involved in community
skills where they accompany service users to the shop, library
or post office. Volunteers help with the everyday things that
we take for granted.
The volunteer discos in Turloughmore (Lackagh) and Cortoon
continue to provide a wonderful social outlet for service
users living in rural areas. The “Touch of Ability Craft Club”
continues to be a wonderful social evening for our service
users in the Tuam and Mountbellew area. In July they went to
Athlone shopping and also took a boat trip on the Shannon.
The success of these discos and this club is due to the loyal
commitment and support of volunteers who work hard to
ensure that everyone always has a good time.
We are very proud of all our volunteers and grateful for their
dedication and commitment to service users and to Ability
West. Volunteers help to make the difference, they are a vital
link with the local community.
Best Buddies Programme
The Best Buddies College Programme continues to grow each
year and has become a very important part of the lives of
students and service users alike. We are very grateful to the
committed students on both the NUIG and GMIT campuses
who promote the programme and social inclusion.
We were delighted this year when Katherine Long, President
of Best Buddies GMIT, won the “Young Volunteer of the Year”
Award at the Galway City Mayor’s Award in the Black Box
Theatre in April. She was also shortlisted in the final ten of the
Top Outstanding Young Person of the Year Awards organised
by JCI (Junior Chamber International).
Katherine Long receiving her award from Galway City Mayor,
Cllr. Hildegarde Naughton, April 2012
So Can I
Ability West continues to deliver the So Can I programme,
an intellectual disability awareness programme aimed at
14-18 year olds in second level schools. It aims to foster an
understanding of intellectual disability and the understanding
that everyone has the same needs, dreams and ambitions.
So Can I also encourages young people to become more
actively involved within their community and with our
services locally. This year the programme was adapted and
delivered to a number of national schools where younger
students engaged very well with the So Can I presentation.
Ability West is very appreciative of the funding received from
the Galway Rural Development Co. to facilitate the delivery
of So Can I to 555 students in 13 secondary schools and 137
students in four national schools in East Galway. The So Can I
programme was delivered by Ciaran Morris at the start of the
school year.
22

Fundraising and Community
Development Report 2012
By Cathal Ryan, Fundraising and Community
Development Officer
It gives me great pleasure to provide the fundraising and
development report for 2012. It was a very busy and successful
year as it coincided with our 50th Anniversary. We could not
have achieved all that we did without the tremendous support
and commitment from all of the branches, families, staff,
volunteers and friends of Ability West. I would like to sincerely
thank all of you for your efforts in the past year.
The majority of fundraising money is used for capital work
such as our ongoing building programme, to purchase
essential aids and appliances, specialised equipment for
service users and buses which play a critical role in ensuring
that service users can participate fully in community activity.
Branch Fundraising
Ballinasloe Branch
The Ballinasloe Branch held a number of fundraisers
throughout the year, with the biggest event being a golf
fundraiser which was held in Ballinasloe Golf Club.
Galway City Branch
The branch organised the 5th Annual Five Mile Menlo Walk.
This event continues to grow in popularity with over 400
participants taking part.
Glenamaddy Branch
The Glenamaddy Branch held their annual climb of Croagh
Patrick in 2012; the climb took place at night, while this was
certainly more challenging over 70 climbers participated in
the event.
local Ability West centres.
Killimor Branch
The Killimor Branch held their annual fundraising night in The
Hurler’s Rest, Killimor and this was a great success.
Lackagh Branch
This year saw the second fashion show with service users
and their Best Buddies all taking to the catwalk. This was a
fantastic night for all involved and all who attended.
Loughrea Branch
I am delighted to report that the Loughrea Branch has been
re-activated and I am sure that they will be very active in the
coming year.
Tuam Branch
The Tuam Branch held a series of fundraisers throughout the
year and were a fantastic help with the County Church Gate
collection and the counter top collection boxes in Tuam and
the surrounding area.
Other Events
The Glenamaddy Branch organised The Glenamaddy Fun
Week for the second year running. This five day event took
place in August and ten individuals with intellectual disability
from the local area participated in the event which was
managed by twenty four branch volunteers. Every day was
a different journey with the highlight being a trip to Croke
Park to watch the All Ireland Hurling Semi Final between
Galway and Cork. The Glenamaddy Branch would like to
acknowledge and sincerely thank everyone who helped
to make this possible, in particular Galway County Council
Community Support Scheme 2012 who funded a large
portion of the costs incurred over the course of the week.
Once again the members of Galway Golf Club made their
fantastic course and clubhouse available to Ability West for
the annual golf event. The day was a great success with a full
tee sheet. This event is an ongoing success due to the hard
work and commitment of the organising committee. This year
they raised over €8,820 and we acknowledge and thank them
for their ongoing support.
Participants of the Croagh Patrick Climb, August 2012
l-r: Kieran Dowd Ann Marie Lardner and Sean Brandon
Headford/Caherlistrane Branch
This relatively new branch is going from strength to strength.
The members held a series of fundraisers with their now
annual cycle being the main event of the year.
Killascobe Branch
The Killascobe Branch had another very productive year with
many fundraising activities being held. The branch has also
provided many volunteers who provide valuable support to
Presentation by Galway Golf Club Members to Ability West following the annual
golf event, September 2012
l-r: Bosco McDermott, Sean O’Flaherty, Maria Flannery, members of the
Organising Committee, Cathal Ryan, Kevin Gavin, Ability West
23

The Shrule and District Vintage Rally Club raised €4,000 for
Ability West during their annual rally in Castlehackett Estate,
Belclare. Sincere thanks to all involved.
The Ciara Grehan Foundation held their inaugural fundraiser,
a duathlon, in Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.
The idea for this foundation began following the untimely
death of Ciara Grehan Kennedy in November 2010. Ciara was
mother to three young children, Eve, Luke and Jack who is a
student in St. Joseph’s Special School. Through this foundation,
her family and friends hope to make a meaningful contribution
to the lives of children with special needs in the West of Ireland.
Ability West was honoured to be the recipients of €5,000 which
was raised from this event. We wish the foundation and the
Kennedy and Grehan families all the best in the future.
Proceeds raised by the Ciara Grehan Foundation in aid of Ability West following their
very successful inaugural duathlon event in Lough Key Forest Park on 6th May.
l-r: Denis Kennedy, Ciara’s husband, David Grehan, Ciara’s Brother, Breda Crehan-
Roche, Chief Executive, Cathal Ryan, Fundraising and Community Development
Officer, Ability West
Ability West would like to sincerely thank the Communication
Workers Union for their very generous grant of €8,000.
Presentation by the Communication Worker’s Union (CWU), August 2012
Back l-r: Ray Kelly, Board Member, Abilty West, Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief
Executive, Ability West, Damien Tuohy, CWU National Executive, Marie Dever,
Eircom CWU, Adrian Harney, Director of Human Resources Ability West, Tom
Geraghty, CWU, Paul Kennedy, CWU, Galway Mail Centre, John McHugo, Director
of Finance, Ability West, Cathal Ryan, Fundraising Officer, Ability West.
Front l-r: Mary Crehan, Ability West, Anthony Kelly, Ability West
This summer the Rotary Club of Galway held a family fun
cycle along the Great Western Greenway. All who attended
had a fantastic day out and this is an event which we hope
will grow and become even more popular in the future.
This event raised €3,000 for Ability West. Thanks to The Rotary
Club for supporting us.
Thanks to a Parents and Friends Group from the Portumna
area who organised a harvest festival. The former Portumna
Branch also raised significant funds and this, along with
proceeds from the festival, has enabled works to be carried
out in St. Dympna’s Adult Day Service in Portumna.
Ability West was delighted to be nominated as Boston
Scientific’s ‘Charity of Choice’ for 2012. We are very grateful to
all the staff in Boston Scientific and, in particular, to the charity
committee who worked tirelessly throughout the year on our
behalf. Over the course of the fundraising campaign they
held many and varied fundraisers including: raffles, sponsored
walks, cake sales and an on-line version of the game show
Deal or No Deal. The highlight of the year was undoubtedly
the Boston Scientific Strictly Come Dancing event where 12
couples took to the dance floor and entertained a packed
audience in the Clayton Hotel. This event really captured
the great camaraderie between the two organisations as
participants from both Ability West and Boston Scientific took
part. As well as an extremely effective fundraising campaign,
Boston Scientific also arranged the refurbishment of Ability
West’s residential service, ‘Glen Haven Group Home’ which is
home to four adults with intellectual disability in Galway City.
It is planned that the funds raised in 2012 by Boston Scientific
will be used towards the development of a trike park and the
purchase of specialised tricycles. This facility will allow people
with intellectual disability, regardless of their level of ability or
mobility, to participate in a normal, healthy and fun activity
which is usually not available to them. It will promote social
inclusion and promote disability awareness in the general
public. Over the course of the year a strong friendship formed
between Ability West and Boston Scientific, a friendship which,
we hope will grow and last well into the future.
A huge number of events and activities, too many to mention
in this report, were held throughout the year by branches,
friends, volunteers, families, services users, staff and services,
some examples are: Connacht Rugby very kindly let us hold
a bucket collection at one of their home matches where we
collected over €1,000, students of Galway Technical Institute
(GTI) raised almost €1,000 at their annual fashion show, Wings
Golf Society donated €1,000, €2,285 was collected through
counter collection boxes throughout the county, this figure
is exclusive of the proceeds raised in other counter collection
boxes which are co-ordinated by the branches. There were
also some significant individual donations and we are very
thankful to those individuals. We are grateful to everyone
who has supported us throughout the year and we look
forward to your continued support and assistance. Keep up
to date with our events on www.facebook.com/abilitywest.
24

Audited Accounts
The Balance Sheet and Statements of Movement in Revenue and Capital Reserves contained in this annual report are an extract
from the financial statements of Ability West for the year ended 31 December 2012.
The Company’s Auditors, CAG Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors, reported, without qualification, that the 2012
Financial Statements gave a true and fair view of the company’s affairs and of its results for the year and were properly prepared
in accordance with the Companies Acts 1963 to 2012.
The audited accounts were approved at a meeting of the Board of Directors held on 25 March 2013 and were signed on behalf
of the Board of Directors by Mr. Kevin Flavin and Mr. Anthony O’Connor
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2012
2012 2011
€ € € €
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible Assets 19,301,961 19,505,093
Financial Assets 444,507 444,507
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors 1,272,810 1,354,949
Cash at Bank and in Hand 4,372,303 4,192,612
5,645,113 5,547,561
Creditors (amounts falling due within one year) 5,168,731 5,557,822
NET CURRENT ASSETS/(LIABILITIES) 476,382 (10,261)
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES 20,222,850 19,939,339
Pension Asset/(Liability) 165,630 1,484,500
TOTAL ASSETS AFTER PENSION ASSET/(LIABILITY) 20,388,480 21,423,839
FINANCED BY:
Creditors (amounts falling due after more than one
year) 5,411,775 5,403,775
CAPITAL AND RESERVES
Fixed Assets Reserve 14,851,066 14,803,462
Revenue Reserve 125,639 14,976,705 1,216,602 16,020,064
20,388,480 21,423,839
25

STATEMENT OF MOVEMENT IN REVENUE RESERVES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2012
Income:
Health Service Executive Western Area – Subvention 21,911,042 22,606,876
Health Service Executive Mid-Western Area - Subvention 36,118 37,506
Health Service Executive Western Area – Rehabilitative Training 512,505 515,559
Department of Education and Skills – St. Joseph’s V.T.C. 177,015 125,730
Bank Deposit Interest 7 335
22,636,687 23,286,006
Expenditure:
Pay (19,082,066) (19,922,776)
Non-Pay (3,150,482) (3,311,526)
Revenue Funding Applied to Capital Projects (176,232) -
Surplus/(Deficit) Before FRS 17 Adjustments 227,907 51,704
FRS 17 Adjustments:
Defined Benefit Pension Scheme – Contributions Paid 422,030 437,910
Defined Benefit Pension Scheme – Pension Charge (34,160) 1,586,780
Actuarial Gain/(Loss) Recognised (1,706,740) (312,100)
(1,090,963) 1,764,294
2012
€
2011
€
REVENUE SURPLUS/(DEFICIENCY) AT 1 JANUARY 1,216,602 (547,692)
REVENUE SURPLUS/(DEFICIENCY) AT 31 DECEMBER 125,639 1,216,602
STATEMENT OF MOVEMENT IN CAPITAL RESERVES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2012
2012 2011
€ € € €
FIXED ASSETS RESERVE AT 1 JANUARY 14,803,462 14,411,540
Capital Fundraising
Branches 120,138 79,153
Other Fundraising and Donations 67,225 187,363 70,658 149,811
Capital Grants
Galway County Council – Way Leave 6,715 -
Department of Education – St. Joseph’s School - 3,858
Capital Grant – Sustainable Energy Ireland - 14,924
Tangible Assets Purchased from Revenue 176,232 182,947 - 18,782
Capital Deposit Interest 91,646 90,604
Capital Distribution – Firefly Viswear Limited 569,930
Profit on Disposal of Motor Vehicles - -
Depreciation (414,352) (437,205)
FIXED ASSETS RESERVE AT 31 DECEMBER 14,851,066 14,803,462
26

Statements of Directors’ Responsibilities and on the System of Internal
Financial Control
DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report
and the Financial Statements in accordance with applicable
Irish law and generally accepted accounting practice in
Ireland, including the accounting standards applicable by the
Accounting Standards Board and published by the Institute of
Chartered Accountants in Ireland.
Irish company law requires the Directors to prepare financial
statements for each financial year which give a true and fair
view of the state of affairs of the company and of the surplus
or deficiency of the company for that year. In preparing
these the Directors are required to select suitable accounting
policies and then apply them consistently, make judgements
and estimates that are reasonable and prudent, prepare the
financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is
inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in
business.
The Directors confirm that they have complied with the
above requirements in preparing the financial statements.
The Directors are responsible for keeping proper books of
account which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any
time the financial position of the company and to enable
them to ensure that the financial statements are prepared in
accordance with accounting standards generally accepted
in Ireland and with Irish statute comprising Companies Acts
1963 to 2012. They are also responsible for safeguarding
the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable
steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other
irregularities.
SYSTEM OF INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROL
The Directors are responsible for the company’s system
of internal financial control, which is designed to give
reasonable assurance that assets are safeguarded against
unauthorised use or disposition and that proper accounting
records are maintained.
A system of internal control is designed to reduce rather than
eliminate risk. Such a system can provide only a reasonable
and not an absolute assurance that assets are safeguarded,
transactions authorised and properly recorded and that
material errors or irregularities are either prevented or would
be detected in a timely manner.
The following is a description of the key procedures and
processes which have been put in place to provide effective
internal financial control:
1. There is an appropriate organisation structure in place,
with clearly defined lines of responsibility, segregation of
duties and delegation of authority.
2. A comprehensive budgeting system is in place. An
annual operating budget is prepared and agreed in detail
by Management, the Finance Committee and the Board
of Directors.
3. A comprehensive financial reporting system is in place.
Monthly management accounts are produced where the
actual results are compared against budget. Significant
variances are examined and remedial action taken
where deemed necessary. The reports are monitored by
Management, the Finance Committee and the Board of
Directors on an ongoing basis.
4. Comprehensive control procedures are in place and
adhered to in the Company. There are clearly defined
limits and procedures for financial expenditure, including
procurement and capital expenditure.
5. An Audit Committee is in place with clearly defined
terms of reference. The committee reviews the annual
financial statements and reports to the Board of
Directors accordingly. The Audit Committee also meets
periodically with the Company’s external auditors to
discuss the Company’s internal accounting controls,
the choice of accounting policies, the external audit
programme, the statutory audit report, financial
reporting and other related matters. The external
auditors have full and unrestricted access to the Audit
Committee.
6. On a periodic basis the Company’s external auditors
review and report to the Board of Directors on the
Company’s internal financial controls.
7. Statutory financial statements are prepared on an annual
basis in accordance with all relevant legal and regulatory
requirements and audited in accordance with all relevant
auditing standards. The financial statements are filed
with the Companies Office.
27

Summary of Branch Fundraising
2012
€
2011
€
Ballinasloe 4,191 1,859
Camus/Rosmuc 1,000 -
Clifden 717 3,000
Dunmore 304 2,910
Galway City 10,119 -
Glenamaddy 39,922 602
Headford/Caherlistrane 9,428 9,150
Indreabhán (Inverin) 171 6,720
Killascobe 3,073 3,456
Killimor 4,020 3,720
Lackagh 9,546 10,152
Loughrea 2,125 1,750
Menlo - 4,558
Mountbellew 10 22,381
Portumna 31,860 2,000
Skehana - 1,395
Tuam 3,652 5,500
Other - -
TOTAL 120,138 79,153
Guinness Record Breaking Attempt – Rock the Boat, April 2012
28

Ability West – Tracking the history over the past six decades, 1962-2012
By Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief Executive and
Company Secretary
Extract from minute book dated 10 December 1962
1960’s
The genesis of Ability West formerly known as The Galway
County Association for Mentally Handicapped Children
occurred in 1961 when a parent Sean Keane wrote two letters
to the local paper, The Connacht Tribune, looking for support
from interested people to set up services in Galway for children
with mental handicap. Although he received no replies or
offers of support, unknown to him at the time people had
begun to take an interest. Senator Sean Brosnahan, a founding
member of the National Association for Mentally Handicapped
of Ireland (NAMHI), and General Secretary of the Irish
National Teachers Organisation (INTO), contacted the Galway
INTO branch seeking their help. Mick Rafferty and Michéal
McSweeney, then Chairman and Secretary of the Galway INTO
branch, convened a meeting and a temporary committee was
established, comprising of teachers, clergy and doctors.
In November 1962, a public meeting was held to form an
Association and in the following May a general meeting was
held, their work was noted, discussed and a new committee
was elected (Kevin O’Rourke was elected Chairman and
Marie O’Sullivan, Secretary). This committee started off
with funding of £20 and one of their first tasks was to find
suitable accommodation for a school. They also carried out
a community audit to identify the numbers and need of
children with mental handicap. In those early days they were
very busy fundraising and they secured grants from Galway
County Council and the Department of Education. In January
1964 St. Joseph’s School opened in a temporary building in
Galway City, with 12 children on the roll. At that time the
government did not provide funding for transport and a rota
of volunteer drivers transported the children to and from
school. During the late 1960’s many voluntary associations
were formed in parishes throughout County Galway.
1970’s
In the early 1970’s the first fundraising Mental Handicap
Week was organised; it was a great success and the event still
continues today. The Association became a limited company
known as the Galway County Association for Mentally
Handicapped Children. The Board of Directors elected in
July 1972 were Tom Garvey, Chairman, Peadar Burns, Vice
Chairman, Michael Sugrue, Treasurer, Bosco McDermott,
Hon. Secretary. Other members were Joan McNicholl, Simon
Kelly, Sean Kelly, Brother Damien Nolan, Daiden O’hEocha,
Kathleen Duggan, Chris Conneally and Des O’Rourke. The first
Secretary, Michael Kennedy, was appointed in October 1973.
He secured £30,000 from the Department of Health, which
was a major boost for the organisation.
By the mid-1970’s the organisation had established five main
services: St. Joseph’s School for children with a moderate
mental handicap, Snipe Avenue Day Services for children
with moderate/severe mental handicap, a Training Centre
for children leaving school, a five day residential hostel for
children attending school and a hostel for short-term care
for children with severe mental handicap. By the mid to late
1970’s child training centres were established in Portumna,
Tuam, Glenamaddy and Carraroe.
Members and Friends of The Galway County Association for Mentally
Handicapped Children pictured at an Association function in the 1960’s
In 1978, the Association opened a crisis and relief hostel
(Blackrock House) in the city for young adults and an
occupational therapy unit opened in Tuam. Michael Kennedy
the first Secretary left the Association at that time and Tadhg
Nagle was appointed as Director of Services. With the
increase in services throughout the county came the need
for additional staff; two residential services were also opened
29

in the Galway City. In 1978 the Association had 34 voluntary
branches. Funding from the Western Health Board amounted
to £114,700.
Chairpersons 1960’s – 1970’s
Kevin O’Rourke, 1962-68, Michael O’Sullivan 1968-69,
Fr. James Fitzsimons 1969-70, Fr. Michael Keane 1970-71,
Tom Garvey 1971-74, Peadar Burns 1974-80
1990’s
In the 1990’s new group homes were opened in Tuam and
Galway City. Plans were agreed for a new school in the city.
1992 saw the introduction of the volunteer programme which
recruited, trained and supported volunteers. At that time 47
branches were operating throughout Galway City and County
and over £100,000 was raised annually by the branches
through collections and fundraising. In October 1994 Minister
for Education, Niamh Breathnach, officially opened St.
Joseph’s School at what was a very historic and emotional day,
full of pride for the founders; much had been achieved from
1964 when the school opened in a temporary building with
12 children on the roll to the opening of a new school. By
1998 funding from the Western Health Board was £5.5 million.
Additional group homes were established in Galway City,
along with additional day places throughout the county.
Official Opening of Team Products, September 1985
l-r: Mr. Paul Connaughton, T.D., Daiden O’hEocha, Peadar Burns, Jim Conlon R.I.P.
1980’s
Despite the recession of the 1980’s the organisation
continued to develop further services. Tadhg Nagle was
replaced by Arthur Browne who continued as Director of
Services for a further five years. A hostel for young adults was
established in Tuam and a day service in Kilkerrin. In 1982
a child education and development centre was established
in Ballinasloe. Other services established during the 1980’s
were Ballyglunin Horticulture project and Team Products
employment centre in Tuam. Annual expenditure in 1984
was £1.6 million with funding from the Western Health Board
of £1.3 million and a large deficit of £300,000.
In 1985 Home Sharing was introduced and regional meetings
replaced the central committee meetings; Arthur Browne left
the organisation and Peadar Burns became acting Director
of Services. Other developments were two group homes in
the city and a hostel in Tuam. By 1987 over 300 children and
adults were receiving services from the organisation. Tom
Hogan was appointed Chief Executive. Three more group
homes were established between Galway City and Tuam
and a day training centre in the city. The annual expenditure
exceeded £2.1 million. In 1988 a new employment centre
(Firefly Viswear) was set up in the city.
Chairpersons 1980’s
Tom Garvey 1980-82, Eoghan O’Sullivan 1982-84, Peadar
Burns 1984-90.
Former Board Members at the 50th Anniversary Celebration, November 2012
l-r: Daiden O’hEocha, Chris Conneally, Ann Donovan
Chairpersons 1990’s
Peadar Burns 1990-91, Tom Garvey 1991-93, Annie Nolan
1993-97, Ann Donovan 1997-2000
2000 onwards
Additional resources made available in the 2000 budget
enabled the provision of further day places throughout the
county. During 2001 capital projects were undertaken in
Glenamaddy, Tuam and Carraroe. By 2002 funding from
the Western Health Board was over €13 million and this was
augmented by funds raised by the branches for the same
year (€131,867). In 2003 the Association’s site at Snipe Avenue
was redeveloped and the new facilities included a refurbished
training centre, an adult day service and a group home.
In 2005 the Health Service Executive (HSE) was established as
a single national health service. Tom Hogan retired as Chief
Executive after 18 years and was replaced by Breda Crehan-
Roche. At an EGM the same year, the term ‘mental handicap’
was replaced by ‘intellectual disability’ in the Memorandum
and Articles of Association. Increased adult services were
provided in Portumna and formal discussions commenced
with the Department of Education and Science in relation
30

to educational and teacher provision at the five child
education and development centres. Advocacy groups were
established throughout the county and training was provided
for all involved.
Unveiling of New Nameplate, Ability West – Éirim an Iarthair, on 24 September 2007
l-r: Caroline McDonagh, Service User, Snipe Resource Centre,
Páraic Lawless, Chairman
In 2006 the Board approved a five year strategic plan
2006-2010. That same year day and residential places
were increased and funding provided by the Department
of Education and Science enabled the appointment of
five teachers. A purpose-built group home in Tuam was
completed and commissioned and funding enabled the
organisation to make improvements and to refurbish many
of the older centres and to provide new buses and much
needed equipment. In 2007 the company name was
changed to Ability West. A new children’s residential service
was opened in Ballinasloe, work commenced on a new day
centre in Tuam and an adult day service commenced in
Glenamaddy. In 2008 further funding provided additional,
day, residential and respite services throughout the city
and county, semi-independent apartments in Tuam and
an active ageing programme in Galway. AIB Better Ireland
funding afforded the introduction of the “Best Buddies
Programme” (founded by Anthony Kennedy-Shriver to
provide opportunities for one-to-one friendships between
secondary school students and people with intellectual
disability) and a disability awareness programme called So
Can I was developed by Ability West for secondary school
students. Minister of Education and Science, Mary Hanafin,
T.D. approved three new special schools under the patronage
of Ability West.
In June 2008 a commemorative ceremony was organised to
honour founding members and to acknowledge the work
of past and present chairpersons. Two purpose-built respite
centres in Galway City for adults and children were made
possible through the Dormant Accounts Flagship funding
and were commissioned in 2009. Also in 2008, a purposebuilt
adult day resource centre was opened in Tuam.
Local Public Representatives join Former Chairpersons at a Founding Members
Commemorative Ceremony on 30 June 2008
Front l-r: Ann Donovan, Peadar Burns, Annie Nolan, Marie O’Dowd
Back l-r: Eoghan O’Sullivan, Mayor of Galway City, Cllr. Padraig Conneely, Micháel
Kitt, T.D., Minister of State with the Department of Environment, Heritage and
Local Government, Mayor of County Galway, Cllr. Peter Feeney, Páraic Lawless,
Tom Garvey.
2008 saw the beginning of the economic downturn and
the commencement of funding cuts. In 2009 Ability
West responded to demand by reviewing its services and
by restructuring, with the result that additional day and
residential services were made possible within existing
resources and some funding from the HSE provided day and
training places for school leavers and one residential place.
Fundraising enabled the commencement of an adult day
resource centre and adult respite centre in Mountbellew.
2010 saw further funding cuts however with the assistance of
staff and families, all frontline services were maintained and
some development funding was found for school leavers and
for additional respite places. An EGM in December approved
a new Memorandum and Articles of Association to replace
those from the 1970s. The Board approved the Strategic Plan
2011-2013; Genio funding enabled us to pilot family networks
and other developments included the establishment of an
adult day resource and adult respite centre in Mountbellew,
the establishment of a Service User Council, a Human Rights
Committee and an Ethics in Research Committee.
At the AGM in May 2011 the Board of Directors honoured
two special people with Honorary Memberships - Peadar
Burns and Chris Conneally. Their honorary membership
was in recognition of their outstanding contribution to
the development of services and supports to people with
intellectual disability. HSE funding in 2010 was €21m and
branch fundraising was €62,657. 2011 was another difficult
and challenging year however, all frontline services were
maintained. A new group home opened in Galway, major
improvement works were carried out to Team and Snipe
Resource Centres and work commenced on St. Teresa’s
Respite Service in Ballinasloe.
2012 saw further challenges and more budget cuts. No
additional funding was provided by the HSE for people
leaving school, this seriously challenged Ability West with 33
31

people requiring day places. However, we responded to their
needs and to a number of emergencies; all of these additional
people had to be accommodated within the existing budget.
2012 marked the 50th anniversary of the organisation and
during the year there were several events marking this
significant milestone. Some of these events included: official
openings of Mountbellew Adult Day and Respite Centre and
St. Teresa’s Respite Service, Ballinasloe, 50th Anniversary Gala
Concert in the Black Box Theatre, a special 50th Anniversary
Mass of Celebration, a Staff Conference and the special
year culminated with a party in February 2013. New capital
developments included an extension to Grange View Group
Home, Dunmore, which provides two extra bedrooms and
a bathroom, all wheelchair accessible, refurbishment of St.
Francis Adult Day Service and Macotar Lodge Group Home,
Kilkerrin, refurbishment of Snipe Resource Centre, Galway City,
to provide a service for people with complex needs and work
commenced on the new extension to St. Dympna’s Adult Day
Service, Portumna which will provide additional space and
leisure facilities. None of the above projects would have been
possible without the assistance of funds raised by our local
branches and other fundraising events. We acknowledge the
generosity of everyone who supports our fundraising events.
In conclusion, we acknowledge the co-operation and
assistance of our staff, service users and families who have
worked in partnership with us in maintaining frontline
services and enabling all of us to provide person centred
quality services.
Chairpersons 2000 to date,
Ann Donovan 2000-02, Marie O’Dowd 2002-05, Páraic Lawless
2005 to date.
At the 50th Birthday Celebration, November 2012
l-r: Mayor of Galway City, Cllr. Terry O’Flaherty, Mary Sheridan, Mayor of County
Galway, Cllr. Thomas Welby
At the Gala Concert, October 2012
l-r: Páraic Lawless, Chairman, Mayor of County Galway, Cllr. Thomas Welby,
Mayor of Galway City, Cllr. Terry O’Flaherty, Breda Crehan-Roche, Chief Executive
Acknowledgements
Ability West – Éirim an Iarthair would like to take this
opportunity to thank the various individuals and
organisations whose co-operation and assistance have been
invaluable to the organisation. We would particularly like to
thank parents, family members, guardians and service users
for their support and assistance.
Thanks to:
The Health Service Executive West, in particular; John Hennessy,
Regional Director of Operations, Catherine Cunningham, Area
Manager Galway/Roscommon PCCC, Mary O’Donnell, Disability
Services Manager, Ultan O’Sullivan, Management Accountant,
Liam Fogarty, Management Accountant, Gerry Burke,
Integrated Services, HSE Staff and the Health Service Executive
Corporate Employee Relations Services
Staff Members in all our services
Board Members, Branch Members and Volunteers
In addition, we are deeply grateful to the local community
groups, businesses and individuals throughout the city and
county for their help and support throughout the year.
32