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REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 20151
A N N UA L R E P ORT 2 0 1 5
Brothers of CharityServices Galway
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 20152
The Brothers of Charity Services Galway provide a wide range of services to people with an intellectual disability and to
their families in Galway City and County. The services range from early intervention services for young children through
to school age services and a variety of programmes for adults devised according to the level of support that individuals
require and priorities that they identify. Services include educational, day, residential, respite, family support, a range
of multidisciplinary supports and supports to people who live independently.
2 VISION STATEMENT // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 2015
Vision StatementWe support people to be valued citizens in their local community, to have ordinary life experiences and to be closely connected to family and friends. We are committed to supporting people to make choices about their lives and to the provision of quality services that meet people’s needs.
Jimmy Mohan of Blue Teapot’s Bright Soul Programme with Ronan Loughney, Blue Teapot Volunteer. Congrats to
Ronan who won Volunteer of the Year in the Volunteer Ireland Awards 2015 for Arts, Culture & Media.
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 20153
Letter from Chairperson of Board of DirectorsIt gives me great pleasure to present the Brothers of Charity Services Galway Annual Report for 2015.
On behalf of the Board I would like to congratulate the people who use our Services, and the staff who
support them for the wonderful achievements that are documented in the Report.
2015 was another very busy year for the Services. The consequences of the austerity years and the
very significant financial cuts are severe. This is evident in lengthy waiting lists for people who require
residential, respite and multidisciplinary services, our capacity to respond to emergency situations and
the needs of young people leaving school. Lack of capital funding has had serious implications for our
ability to replace motor vehicles as required.
However, despite the many challenges, the Services continued to be creative and innovative. The closure of Kilcornan was a very
significant achievement and the Board would like to say a sincere thank you to the many people who made this happen. We wish the
former residents many happy years in their new homes in the community.
I would like to congratulate everybody involved
in the “Let’s Get to Work Project” which won the
International Award for Excellence in Human
Services and was presented to the Services by the
Council on Quality and Leadership in November.
I congratulate the Psychology Department and
authors Marie Walsh and Geraldine Cregg on the
publication by Pavilion of Personal Development,
Relationships and Staying Safe. This training
programme, the first of its kind internationally, will
provide great support for staff working with people
who have high support needs.
On behalf of the Board and the Services I must pay
a particular tribute to Tony Collins, Head of Finance
who retired in December. Over a long number of
years Tony managed the finance of our Services
and guided us through some very challenging
years with enormous commitment, dedication and
integrity. The needs of people using the Services
was always his guiding principle. We wish Tony
health and happiness in his retirement.
The Board would like to acknowledge and thank
the officials of the Health Services Executive,
the many government and local government
departments and other statutory and non-statutory
bodies, our colleagues in other voluntary service
providers, the local politicians, our volunteers, and
the people of Galway for their continuing support.
Patrick McGinley,
Chairperson of Board of Directors.
Emer Hynes, Service Users’ Council presents a painting by Clarenmore
Artist Clement Moylan to Tony Collins on the occasion of his
retirement.
3 LETTER FROM CHAIRPERSON OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 2015
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 20154
ANOTHER VERY BUSY YEARIn reviewing the year, 2015 had a number
of distinct points of focus. These included
the very significant activity in relation to
regulation; an emphasis in many service
areas on supporting people to be active
participants in their communities; a
focus on health promotion and personal
safety; continued involvement in the Arts;
skill-sharing and development; home
improvements and new homes, and the
closure of Kilcornan.
QUALITY & REGULATIONRegistration inspections by the Health
Information and Quality Authority (HIQA)
commenced in the latter part of the year,
and as the schedule of inspections had
been delayed we had a large number of
inspections in quick succession which
placed the services under considerable
pressure. Oversight of services by an
independent authority is a very important
and welcome development which we fully
support. However the work associated
with the application for inspection and the
preparation in advance is significant, and
I would like to acknowledge the support
of everybody involved to meet many tight
deadlines. I would like to thank the Service
Users’ Council for their help in preparing
easy read versions of documents, for piloting
some easy read documents and for help in
informing people using the services about
the inspection process. I would also like to
thank the residents in the houses inspected
for welcoming the inspectors into their
homes and for engaging with them to tell
them about their lives. The inspections
to date have validated the quality of our
services and have also highlighted some
further developments or improvements.
Inspection Reports are available on
www.hiqa.ie
Anne Geraghty, Director of Services
Report from Director of Services
I would like to take this opportunity to
recognise the enormous commitment and
hard work of the staff in our Services who
once again have supported the people who
use our Services in so many ways during
2015. Without the skill, commitment and
dedication of staff, whether they work
frontline or in support or back office areas,
the wonderful achievements described in
this report would not have been possible.
Despite many years of funding cuts and
the consequential pressures, our staff
have remained steadfastly determined to
advocate for the people using the Services
and to consistently endeavour to support
them to achieve their personal goals. I
would like to say a sincere thank you to
them all.
Evan Kelly with
Ciara Clogher, Springfield CDC
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 20155
In June we had our mid-cycle Accreditation Review by CQL. In summing up the Review, CQL stated “It is clear that the Brothers
of Charity Services Galway is a learning organisation that strives for excellence in providing the highest quality of life for
people it supports”. In November we were delighted to be chosen by CQL to receive their International Award for Excellence in
Human Services. The award was for the “Let’s Get to Work Project” which supports people who could not easily avail of existing
employment support services to access work, volunteering, educational and self-employment opportunities. In presenting the
award, Cathy Ficker Terrill, President and CEO of CQL said “We are so proud to present the Brothers of Charity Services Galway with
this prestigious award. They are truly committed to person-centred approaches that lead to employment outcomes for people with
disabilities.”
COMMUNITY & SOCIAL CONNECTIONSRight across the Services there has been a big emphasis on building community relationships and partnerships and in supporting
people to be more actively involved in their communities. This has happened both for individuals, groups of people and for services.
People in the Gort and Athenry Services were very actively involved in assessing accessibility for wheelchair users in their areas
and in lobbying for improvements. In Ballinasloe participants in the SUAS programme made a DVD on the effects of the recession
on their town. This was launched in the Shearwater Hotel. As part of a radio production course they made a programme about their
lives which was later aired on Galway Bay FM. Ballinasloe and Athenry Services got into the “pop-up” shop mode very successfully
where they sold their Christmas crafts. Harvest Studios in Gort continues to go from strength to strength providing a welcome
space for the local community to browse their bookshelves while having a relaxing tea or coffee. The Dolmen Centre stall is now an
integral part of Kinvara Market. As part of Social Inclusion Week the Iris Centre hosted “Kilcornan Then and Now”, an exhibition of
photographs, art and audio recordings of Kilcornan through the centuries which was opened by the Cathaoirleach of Galway County
Council Councillor Peter Roche.
“Let’s Get to Work Project” receives
CQL International Excellence Award
- Orla Coppinger, Ann Loughney,
Cathy Ficker Terrill, CQL & Mairead
Vaughan.
SUAS Film Presentation “Ballinasloe
Our Town” at Shearwater Hotel,
Ballinasloe.
Front row - Sarah Reynolds, John
Turley, Jonathan Griffin, & Rachel
Lyons SUAS Services.
Back row - Garry Kelly, GK Media
Tutor, Tracey Moriarty, Clare Kelly
SUAS Services, Cathaoirleach Cllr.
Peter Roche & his wife Bridie, Anne
Geraghty, BOC Galway, Michael
Finnerty, Galway County Council, &
Trisha Keogh, SUAS Services.
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 20156
In October TOPE Resource and TOPE RT, supported by funding from the Galway County Council Arts Abu programme, held an Art
Exhibition entitled “My Favourite Thing” in the Church Gallery at the New Ballinasloe Library. They produced a booklet of some of
the work on display with the assistance of TOPE Print and each artist included a quote about a favourite thing of theirs. Seventeen
individuals displayed work in the exhibition which featured mixed media of painting, collage and pastel work on canvas supported
by Joyce Little, Visual Art Tutor under cooperation from the Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board.
The Horizon programme placed a strong emphasis on supporting people to be more socially connected which is vitally important
for people who are living independently. This was a focus throughout the year, but more particularly over the summer months
when staff and service users jointly planned a very comprehensive programme of diverse activities including a mosaic art project,
paintballing and karting, day trips and climbing Croagh Patrick. People using the Bruach na Mara Services have very strong
connections in the local area and continue to build on those relationships through participation in activities such as a horticultural
programme, active retirement group, a reading group in the local library, community drama, involvement in the parish council,
football and basketball. All of these activities support people using the services to develop friendships with other people in their
communities through shared interests. In Cregoran and John Paul Services larger numbers of individuals are being supported to
become involved in local activities such as the Galway City Cougars, and a trampoline centre in Doughiska which was extremely
popular and helped a number of people to make significant personal advancements. In the Children’s Services a partnership with
the local Community Employment Scheme saw the development of a sensory garden in Stepping Stone CDC.
A great highlight of the year was the invitation to service users
from two areas of the Services – Cúl na Gaoithe and Skylark – to
attend the President’s Garden Party in Áras an Uachtaráin in
June. They were very honoured to receive the invitation and
very excited about meeting President and Mrs. Higgins.
Seamus Ó Fátharta, Maggie McDonagh, Bridie
McDonagh & Dara McDonagh, Bruach na Mara
Services welcomed by Mrs. Higgins
at Aras an Uachtarain.
Emma Campbell, Springfield CDC
“busy making scones”.
Brid Breathnach & Annette Mannion,
Bruach na Mara Services.
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 20157
This year also seemed to be the year of photography in various parts of the Services. Brambley Apartments in the John Paul Services
initiated the First Annual Brambley Photographic Competition which was open to service users and staff. The entries were on display
in the Gallery in the John Paul Centre and the rivalry was intense.
Miriam Jennings in association with Galway Autism Partnership (GAP) has developed a photography skills programme for people
with disability. Thirty of the seventy-two participants in the programme were from the Brothers of Charity Services. They thoroughly
enjoyed the programme and we look forward to the exhibition of their work.
Interest and involvement in the Arts continues to thrive right across the Services. That’s Life and Blue Teapot are actively involved
in the lobby for Gaillimh 2020, the bid to make Galway the European Capital of Culture in 2020. The Services have suggested that
in view of its vibrant arts community, its academic excellence, and our experience in the field of arts and disability, Galway would be
the ideal location for a third level course in the arts and disability arena –to provide training to people who wish to work through the
arts with people who have disability.
2015 saw the launch of Electric
Dreams – a new band supported
by the That’s Life Programme.
Electric Dreams had their debut
performance to great acclaim at
Club Tropicana.
Stephen Marcus, Valerie Egan,
Patrick Becker & Amy Joy Hastings
in “Sanctury” Feature Film.
Electric Dreams getting ready
for their first live performance
at Club Tropicana - Martin
McDonagh, Karen Breen,
Elizabeth McCormack, Jon
Reynolds and Andrew Madec.
The Blue Teapot award winning
play Sanctuary is to become a
feature film. The actors in the
original play were also chosen
to take the lead roles in the film
version which was shot at various
locations in Galway in December.
They said the experience was
exhausting but thrilling and we’re
all looking forward to the release
and who knows? – the Oscars may
come calling!
ARTS AND MORE
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 20158
TIME TO MOVE ON FROM CONGREGATED SETTINGSIn 2011 the report “Time to Move on from Congregated Settings” was published. This recommended that all congregated settings
should close over a period of time and that residential accommodation for people with disability should not have more than 4
people with disability living together. The Brothers of Charity Services had been working to move from congregated settings for
many years before the publication of the report. This required a complex programme of change and significant financial resources
which was a huge challenge in times of recession, austerity and the financial cuts that ensued. In November 2015 the last residents
moved from Kilcornan. Congratulations to everybody who worked so hard for this to happen, to the local HSE office for support, and
to the Peter Triest Housing Association without whose commitment and support this would not have been possible.
The Congregation of the Brothers of Charity has established the Kilcornan Foundation to look at future uses of the campus. The
Congregation is committed to the facility continuing to be available to people with disability and to the community.
Other moves during the year included the Apple Tree RT programme which moved its base from Gort to Loughrea to create a
more central location for East and Mid-Galway. A new building opened for Tope RT as the numbers had grown too large for the
Tope Resource Centre. A new extension was built to Avalon community house which provided a 2-bed apartment, and Hill Crest
community house was renovated to provide 2 apartments for two young men. We are very grateful to the John Paul Parents and
Friends Housing Association for a very generous grant which will facilitate the purchase of a house in the city to meet the needs of
a number of people associated with the John Paul Services. Under the New Directions Policy new HUBS were developed for school
leavers in Carna, Claregalway and Loughrea.
ADVOCACYThe Service Users’ Council was very busy during the year. Members of the Council have been visiting all service areas to inform
service users and staff of the work of the Council and to support the establishment of local advocacy groups. They were also
involved in Focus Groups with national bodies and in preparation for voting for the General Election. Details of their activities are
outlined in the Report from the Service Users’ Council on page 12.
Joe Mulkerrins, Clarin Services “cooking dinner in his own
apartment” following his move from Kilcornan to Athenry.
Brian O’Donnell, National Federation of Voluntary Bodies
presents John Quigley, Clarin Services with a Certificate
in Innovative Practice 2015 as part of the Next Steps
Project “Moving from Congregated Settings to Supported
Independent Living in the Community”.
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 20159
PERSONAL SAFETY, HEALTH PROMOTION & FITNESS
Throughout the year there was a strong focus on health
promotion and fitness. The Physiotherapy Department,
supported by the QED Department, organised a Sports Inclusion
course which had very positive feedback from staff who
attended. The Physiotherapy Team also ran the “Move 4 Health”
day in September and developed materials to raise awareness
on falls prevention and bone health.
Service users participated in the “Women’s Mini Marathon”
and the “Darkness into Light” walk in aid of Pieta House. Many
service users achieved personal goals through participation in
individual sports and activities, involvement in walking clubs,
and many people worked very hard at improving their health
through weight loss. One individual service user was voted the
slimmer of the month by her weight loss class. Congratulations
to each of them for their great achievements. A particular word
of congratulations to Mike Conboy from Horizon Services who
was one of the eighty-eight athletes representing Ireland at the
World Games in Los Angeles. Mike is a member of the Corrib
Bowling Club. He also featured on the Nationwide programme
about the Special Olympics.
Kieran Wilmore & Adam Clogher, Tope Services
“Getting Down to Work in the new Tope RT
Building”.
Catherine Fahy, Clarenmore Services Artist at That’s
Life “Structured Worlds Art Installation” in Nuns Island
Theatre.
Kelly Moore, Cregoran Services
“Celebrating her 21st Birthday”.
Michael Conboy who went to Los Angeles to represent
Team Ireland in the Special Olympics World Summer
Games received 6th place team ribbon.
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201510
Personal Development, Relationships & Staying Safe: A training pack for staff supporting adults with intellectual disability who
have high support and complex needs, which was authored and developed within our Services by psychologists Marie Walsh and
Geraldine Cregg, was published by Pavilion and launched at a major conference in London in November. The aim is to increase staff
awareness, understanding and knowledge of the topic of staying safe, and the promotion of personal development and relationships
specifically for people with high support and complex needs i.e. people with severe to profound levels of intellectual disability.
The pack can be used to provide staff with the knowledge and practical skills to deal with these sensitive issues, and by using it to
support the safety and personal development of individuals with higher dependency.
PROGRESSING CHILDREN’S DISABILTY SERVICESThe re-alignment of multidisciplinary staff working in the
School Age Services into four inter-agency geographically
based teams was due to commence in December. The four
agencies in the partnership – Ability West, Brothers of Charity
Services, Enable Ireland and the HSE – had worked very hard and
with great commitment to support the re-alignment, and the
staff involved had made preparations for the re-organisation.
However, unfortunately due to a number of factors outside the
control of the local agencies, the re-alignment was not able to
progress as anticipated by the end of the year. The Strategic
Leadership Group which comprises representation of each
agency at a senior management level remains committed to the
re-alignment, and it is hoped that this can be advanced at the
earliest possible date.
DIALECTICAL BEHAVIOUR THERAPY
The Brothers of Charity Services Galway is the national pilot site for the implementation of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy with
people with Intellectual Disability who present with severe emotional dysregulation. This is being coordinated by the Psychology
Department in partnership with both east and west adult sectors and key front line staff in support positions. This pilot involves
intensive work with a small number of service users. The outcomes for those individuals have been very positive. A two-hour
symposium was prepared and presented by managers and psychologists on findings to date at the Psychological Society of Ireland
Conference in November 2015. Significant interest has been generated amongst both public and privately run services in the
programme.
Zoe Hynes & Kelly Rickard, Burren View CDC
“on Blackie having a great time Pony Trecking at
Galway Equestrian Centre Athenry”.
Ailise Burke, Dr.
Mary Davis, Joanne
Canavan, Marie
Walsh & Geraldine
Cregg (Authors) BOC
Galway with Jan
Alcoe, Mike Benge,
& Graham Hoare,
Pavilion Publishing
attending the
international launch
of the Manual at the
Olympia Conference
Centre, London.
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201511
I would like to pay tribute to the many volunteers who give their time to a large number of people in our Services. Their commitment
supports people to be involved in many activities and social occasions which without this support may not be possible. A special
thanks once again to CASA in Loughrea for their continued support to providing social occasions for people with disabilities.
We had a number of retirements throughtout the year and I would like to thank each person for their contribution and commitment
to the Services over a long number of years and wish them health and happiness as they move to the next part of their lives.
Sadly during the year there were a number of deaths in our Services and we remember each person with fondness and offer our
sympathies to their families and friends. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the wonderful care that is given to
people in our Services as they come to the end of their lives. Visiting the houses of people at times like this is truly inspirational and
I want to say a very sincere thank you to all our staff who are so sensitive and caring at these times.
I would like to thank our Board of Directors and its Chairperson, Patrick McGinley for giving their time and expertise so generously.
Finally I would like to sincerely thank the many people and organisations, too many to list individually, who supported the Brothers
of Charity Services and the people who use our Services during 2015. I am confident that in partnership with families, our staff,
funders and the local communities who are so supportive of us, we can continue to support the people using our services to achieve
their goals and dreams.
Anne Geraghty, Director of Services.
VOLUNTEERS
Nicola Beattie, Tomasz Cwiak
& Noelle Burke, Skylark
Services at the Garden Party
in Swan Centre “Smiles in the
Sunshine” .
Peter Kelly, Cregoran
Services “enjoying Rebound
Therapy”.
REPORT FROM THE SERVICE USERS’ COUNCIL // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201512
Report from the Service Users’ Council2015 was a year of getting our voices heard, we engaged in a lot of
focus groups, became members of new support organisations and
our Service Users’ Council forums continue to grow in numbers.
Majella Jordan
Chairperson
Christina Burke
Vice Chairperson
Lorraine Mahon
Joint Secretary
Hilary Murray
Joint Secretary
Raymond Kelly
Joint Treasurer
Siobhan Dooley
Joint Treasurer
The Advocacy Service has trained more service users to be
Tutors in delivering staff training in Central Induction, Personal
Outcomes and Key Worker training. In 2015 we delivered 8
workshops and we received payment for these. During 2015
six service users completed the training to become interviewers
on panels for recruiting new staff. The course was run by the
Human Resources Department over an 8 week period. Many
have already sat on panels and are enjoying being involved
in interviewing people that will be working with them. The
graduation was hosted by the Human Resources Department in
the Connacht Hotel, an event enjoyed by all.
In March, we said a huge thank you to John Michael Neary,
Chairperson, John Flannery and Martin Dooher, Joint Treasurers,
as they stepped down from the Service Users’ Committee.
Anne Geraghty and Council members presented them with an
engraved Galway Crystal clock as a memento of their time as
committee members and thanked them for all their hard work,
commitment and dedication to the job. The Council elected six
new members to the committee which will be chaired by Majella
Jordan from the Gort Services for the next 3 years.
One of the highlights of the year was our project “Making
Rights Real”. The aim was to bring the Charter of Rights to
life. Forty actors from across the Services were involved in
the production, the DVD will be used to educate service users
and staff on supporting people to live the life they choose. In
October we presented it at the Brothers of Charity National
Advocacy Conference in Fota Island Resort in Cork. The theme
was “Supports” and our group of advocates spoke about what is
good support.
In May, twenty service users representing all areas met with Ace
Communications to give their experience to date of HIQA. Ace
Communications were putting a report together for the National
Disability Authority, this report was for the Minister for Health,
HIQA and the HSE. Our group gathered in the John Paul Centre
and met with the two consultants from Ace Communications. A
lot of issues were raised on how best to improve inspections
and that service users want to be involved in inspections. The
message was clear, “We have a unique view and we are experts
by experience”. Our National Council representatives also
invited a lead Inspector to their meeting in June, to get their
voices heard about HIQA which was very productive.
Congratulations to all who got elected, the Service Users new
Committee for 2015-2018 are listed below.
REPORT FROM THE SERVICE USERS’ COUNCIL // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201513
Other Highlights throughout the Year:The Advocacy roadshow continued in both the East and West
Sectors. Members of the Council visit service users in their
homes to give information on the work the Council do and the
advocacy structure within our organisation.
Members were involved in the Research project “OUR HOMES”,
with the Inclusive Research Network IRN supported by the
National Federation of Voluntary Bodies, University of Limerick
and Trinity College.
Martin Dooher represented the voices of people with an
intellectual disability at the International Seminar in Dublin
titled “Access to Justice” project supported by Brothers of
Charity Services Galway and National Federation of Voluntary
Bodies and at the annual conference to social care students in
NUIG.
Council members attend and give feed back to the HSE National
Patient Forum and the Galway Leaders Forum.
We promoted the right to vote for the Referendum in 2015, we
continue to issue easy read information and mock polling cards
to practice on before voting.
Advocates across the county have developed accessibility
projects in their towns to highlight issues they are experiencing
when using their community.
We have been involved in two focus groups with Inclusion
Ireland during the year and received payment.
In September our members attended the “Have your Say”
Consultation around Human Rights and Equality and gave input.
We also made a submission to the Minister of Equality, Aodhan
O’Riordan, as part of the consultation process for a new National
Disability Inclusion Strategy.
In 2015 two Advocacy newsletters were produced which
included events and news from across the services.
We hosted the second Padraig McDonagh Bake off in December
in the Raheen Woods Hotel, Athenry. Judges on the day were
Tribal Foods and The Foods of Athenry. Winners were Michael
Looney, Lakeview House, Claregalway and Joe Mulkerrins, Swan
Centre, Athenry.
Please contact us if you have any ideas, news or issues you
would like to share with us.
Majella Jordan, Chairperson
Jackie Moran, Advocacy Coordinator
galwayadvocacy@galway.brothersofcharity.ie
“Nothing About Us Without Us” – Service Users’ Council Advocacy Activities
MOVE 4 HEALTH // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201514
In September 2015, the Physiotherapy Department hosted a “Move 4 Health” 4km walk, run, and cycle morning in Kilcornan Centre.
It was great to see such a fantastic turn out for the planned morning of activities. We were lucky with the weather - on the morning
some dark clouds loomed but fortunately the rain held off with the exception of a “soft” shower for 10-15 minutes. All the essential
preparation including training programmes and gradual promotion of fitness levels were encouraged in service areas. We hoped that
all participants would enjoy themselves on the day.
Before people arrived, there was a great air of expectation and organisation. People were assigned tasks such as ensuring the route
was well signposted, healthy snacks were prepared for the hungry participants including soup, sandwiches, fruit, yogurts, teas and
coffees. An indoor activity area was set up in the gym for people who preferred to stay indoors or who wanted to try the numerous
activities set up in the gym before or after their 4km workout.
Brian Hickey & Cormac Glynn “Enjoying the Walk”.
People arrived around 11am for registration and were soon
ready for action. After a lively warm up and a few directions
everyone set off at a brisk pace. There were 94 people using
our services who participated in the “Move 4 Health” challenge
and a similar number of support staff encouraged them all the
way. Some staff had to run to keep up with people on trikes,
on walkers, in wheelchairs or just putting one foot briskly in
front of the other. There were a few singers on board but mostly
some great camaraderie and chat while stepping it out. People
chose either to do the full 4km or head back in for a cuppa and
rest at the half way mark. However most participants were more
than able to complete the set course and tried out a few indoor
activities as well.
I would like to acknowledge the wonderful contribution made
by Cliona Keaveney, Senior Physiotherapist in our “Move 4
Health” day 2015. Cliona sadly passed away in February 2016
and will be greatly missed by all her friends and colleagues in
the Services.
Aisling Egan, Ngozi Ekwu, Fraoch Shiel, Geraldine Corcoran, Mary Teresa Cregan, & Erica Maloney
“at the Starting Point of the Move 4 Health Walk”.
MOVE 4 HEALTH // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201515
Physiotherapy Department Team with Students from Seamount College, Kinvara “at the Move 4 Health Event”.
Lisa McHugh, Aine McDermott, Sean Ryan with Ciana Walsh, Seamount
College, Kinvara “at Indoor Activities”.
Maire Conneely & Grainne
Kavanagh “on the Cycle
Route”.
I would like to extend a big thank you to all the team who helped make the day so
successful. There was a generous group of staff from different areas of the Services who
gave freely of their time and expertise to assist the Physiotherapists in all the preparation
and ensuring we had a safe and enjoyable day. We had the assistance of 10 Transition year
students from Seamount College who ably supervised the route and assisted with many
aspects of the catering. They also enjoyed the interaction on the day and will bring the
experience back to their own homes and school.
Let’s hope the positive message and enthusiasm for people who took part in the “Move 4
Health” walk, run and cycle challenge will continue in people’s everyday lives. There are
more and more opportunities for us all to maintain happy healthy lifestyles. Team work is
vital to promote and continue the “Move 4 Health” theme in each house and service that
supports people in their daily lives - After all your health is your wealth!
We hope to host another “Move 4 Health”
day on Friday 24th June 2016. We got some
very positive feedback from participants in
2015 and also ways in which the day can be
improved on. We can’t control the weather but
we can make the most of our physical abilities
and enjoy the positive aspects of fun group
activities. We hope to accommodate as many
participants and plenty more in June 2016, so
come on and get active.
Louise O’Driscoll,
Physiotherapy Manager.
PROFILE OF STAFF // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201516
Artist Clement Moylan, Clarenmore Services with Jenny Browne, Manager of “Saol Café” a new
community based social enterprise café set up by NUI Galway and SCCUL Enterprises. Clement along
with Charlie Cooley & John Flannery, Clarenmore Services designed the graphics for the wallpaper,
coffee cups and website of Saol Café.
Profile of People Using Services 2015OVERALL
TOTALCOMMUNITY
SERVICESDAY
SERVICESRESIDENTIAL
SERVICESSUPPORTED
LIVINGRESPITE
(NUMBER OF RECIPIENTS IN BRACKETS)
Children’s Services 454 366 88 - - 9 (23)
East Galway Adult Services 271 37 244 133 3 7 (35)
West Galway Adult Services 326 103 194 125 72 8 (16)
Total 1051 506 526 258 75 24 (74)
Early Intervention Services 412 412 - - - - -
Community Services include children in mainstream schools receiving support from School Age Teams and adults in our Horizon and Suas Services receiving Multidisciplinary Team Supports.
The Galway Early Intervention Services are inter-agency disability services for children from birth to six years old and are provided by the Brothers of Charity Services Galway in partnership with Enable Ireland and HSE West.
SERVICE
26%
13%
21% 27%
10%
1%
40%
20%
2%
23%
8%
5%
17 PROFILE OF STAFF // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 2015 16 PROFILE OF PEOPLE USING SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 2015
THE CLADDAGH CLUB // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201517 17 PROFILE OF STAFF // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 2015
John Lydon, Orla Rowe, Cliff Rowe with John Moorcroft & Brendan Staunton, Horizon Services who ran the
“Tough Mudder” for Horizon Social Group Fundraiser.
Carmel O’Neill, SUAS Services is awarded a Certificate
in Supported Employment by Dr. Karen Finnerty,
Director, Open Training College.
Profile of Staff 2015TOTAL STAFF WTE POSTS
61
5
179
89
45
28
100
413
2
61
983
52.47
4.3
153.38
66.79
37.81
18.77
86.08
335.69
2.00
40.21
797.5
Admin/Org Supports
Medical
Nursing
Multidisciplinary Service
Instructors/Supervisors
Transport
Social Care Leaders/
Social Care Workers
Care Assistants
Maintenance
Others
TOTAL
WTE Staff Posts 797.5 includes locum staff employed as at 31.12.2015
PROFILE OF PEOPLE USING SERVICES 2015 // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201518
The “Claddagh Club” is a Friendship Club for people with intellectual disabilities. It was set up in response to requests from people
in our Services to have more opportunities to meet friends, have fun and share interests. The focus of the Club is to develop
people’s social skills by engaging in a wide variety of activities. In this way people are supported to make new friends and develop
skills in a fun and interactive environment.
Initially members of the “Claddagh Club” were from the Brothers of Charity Services Galway. Over the years the Club has grown and
expanded and includes people from other agencies such as Ability West and National Learning Network.
We meet once a month, usually in the Menlo Park Hotel from 8.30p.m. until 11.00p.m. There is a fee of €5 per night to help cover the
cost of room rental. A calendar of events is circulated to Club members twice a year to let them know what activity is on each month.
Activities include quizzes, bingo, discos, juggling, cinema nights and workshops in dance, drama and circus skills
If you are interested in joining the “Claddagh Club” or you need more information please contact Rosemarie Kearns on 087-9002410
or email rosemariekearns@galway.brothersofcharity.ie
Chloe Corbett & Eamon O’Sullivan “Enjoying a Cuppa”.
The Claddagh Club
Jennifer Cox & Kristopher Weerakoon
“Having a Laugh At The Claddagh Club”.Patricia Hayes & Aoife Hallinan “At Bingo Night”.
18 THE CLADDAGH CLUB// BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 2015
FINANCIAL RESULTS 2015 // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201519
Jean Broderick, Margaret Slattery, Anthony Kearney, Mary Lennon, Helena Corcoran, Breda Donnellan, Mary Cunnane, &
Bernie Toplis, Deerpark Services receiving sponsorship cheque for their production of “Songs from the Movies” from William
Duthie, Ballinasloe Credit Union.
19 FINANCIAL RESULTS// BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 2015
Financial Results 2015Synopsis of Financial Results for the Year 2015 (Service operations extracted from 2015 Audited Accounts)
2015€,000
2014€,000Income
Health Service Executive - Allocation 44,834 43,554
Designated Funds Released 108 224
Deferred Income Released 34 (60)
Other Income 4,865 3,985
Total Income 49,841 47,703
ExpenditureStaff Costs 40,256 38,863
Other Costs 9,184 8,949
Total Expenditure 49,440 47,812
Surplus / (Deficit) for Year 401 (109)
Reserves as at 31 December 1,512 1,111
Expenditure by Service DivisionChildren’s Services - County Galway 3,817 7.72% 3,801 7.95%
Adults Services - East County Galway 18,603 37.62% 17,929 37.50%
Adults Services - West County Galway 18,249 36.91% 17,811 37.25%
The Multidisciplinary Departments 4,789 9.69% 4,642 9.71%
Central (Corporate) Services 3,775 7.64% 3,436 7.19%
Superannuation 207 0.42% 193 0.40%
Total 49,440 100% 47,812 100%
REPORT FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICES // BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES GALWAY // ANNUAL REPORT 201520
Brothers of Charity Services GalwayWoodlands Centre, Renmore, Galway
091 - 721400
091 - 721444
info@galway.brothersofcharity.ie
www.brothersofcharity.ie