Description of the service

Who uses the services?

The service has clients with all kinds of disabilities.

How many people use the service?

Circa 36

Did your service users previously live in an institution or other large establishment?

Some did. Some now live at home on residential group homes in Waterford city and borough.

Description of experience

When agreeing a day service for three adults with autism, we purchased a bungalow on its own site, enclosed with walled gardens. At planning application stage, one neighbour objected vehemently to the services and appealed the granting of planning permission. Planning was granted, the service commenced and no further problems were encountered.

What “learning points” did you identify as a result of your experience? What advice would you pass on to other providers setting up a similar service?

• People feel threatened when their knowledge of intellectual disability is poor;
• Some research needs to be done to establish if the financial value of houses depreciates if a service provider for disabilities owns them;
• Local authority was fully supportive of application;
• Make good use of our collaboration/partnership with parents associations;
• Some people can never be convinced!

anonymously

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