Rehab Care Newsletter May07
23/05/2007
News
15:15
Page 1
and
Views
RehabCare Newsletter
Summer 2007
What’s in this issue?
Editor’s note
Home Based Services
Pg 2
RehabCare UK
Pg 3
East/South East
North East/Midlands
Talking Advocacy
The new NRAC National Committee was
elected in November 2006 and will be
working on national issues for RehabCare
Service Users for the next 2 years. As they
get started in their new roles, here’s what
some of the committee members had to
say about Advocacy and what their role
means to them.
“What Advocacy means to me is to
encourage people to stand up for
themselves as well as representing
people, supporting each other and also
coming up with solutions to improve
things for people with disabilities.”
Jimmy Dooner
“I want to try and help people get
accommodation to live independently
because I have being doing it myself for
the last year and a half. As time went on
it got easier and staff supported me to
make this move. I am enjoying being a
newly elected member of NRAC and will
work for the Service Users of RehabCare.”
Jane Donnelly
(Continued on page 23)
Back row from left: Michael O’Brien, Jimmy Dooner, Margaret Norris, Patrick Hargarden
Front row from left: Catalina Keys, Jane Donnelly, Laura Gaffey, Simon Buggy
Pgs 4-10
Pgs 11-16
South/Midwest
West/North West
Pg 17
Pgs 18-20
Creative Corner
Pg 21
NRAC
Pg 22
Information Bulletin
Pg 23
What’s Advocacy all
About?
Respect yourself and others
It is very important to respect
yourself and others. If we
respect ourselves, we are more
likely to respect others.
Respecting ourselves means
liking, tolerating and approving
of ourselves. We also respect
ourselves when we value our
individuality and uniqueness as
human beings. To lead
productive and constructive
lives is another example of
respecting ourselves. When we
find ourselves liking, tolerating
and meeting other people half
way, we are well on the way to
showing appropriate respect for
other people.
By Denis McGirr, RehabCare HOPS
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Editor’s Note
This is our first themed edition and it’s been wonderful to read your thoughts on what
advocacy is and see the posters you’ve put together to represent advocacy for our
competition (take a look at page 22).
It’s been a joy and a pleasure working on News and Views over the past few months – I
think my favourite part is the excitement I’ve felt as the submissions start to arrive for each
new issue. I’m really pleased to welcome Kathleen Morris back as editor and I’d like to wish
her every success with the rest of the editions this year. I look forward to reading all of
them from cover to cover!
All the very best wishes
Deirdre Carroll
CareLink/Home Based Services
Working with CareLink
It is almost six years since I joined the
CareLink Team, and in that time the
organisation has grown from providing
services for 440 clients to the present
day of 700 clients, along with a fully
functioning team, including Managers,
Care planners, Team Leaders and
administration staff, covering services
in Dublin, Wicklow and Wexford.
I have been lucky to have had the
opportunity to be involved in all of the
services at some stage or other within
those 6 years. It was exciting to have
been involved in many of those
services from the very beginning,
having an input into the processes that
are involved in putting a service
together, recruiting staff, assessing
client’s needs, liaising with families
and all the other work that’s part of
the day to day running of an extensive
care service.
I have recently returned to the team on
a part time basis after time off on
maternity leave. I now feel that I have
the best of both worlds, coming into
the office for the first part of the week,
and then spending the remainder with
my daughter. I am really enjoying all
the challenges that I encounter on a
daily basis, whether this be attending a
meeting with the local health service,
2
arranging extra care for a client within
their own home or helping my
daughter learn lots of exciting things
like crawling and feeding herself with
a spoon – all of them very challenging
(especially the spoon feeds, as this
often means several changes of
clothing through the day!!).
In providing the many services that we
have in CareLink, we deal with a wide
range of clients from children with
disabilities right up to the older person.
Compassion, patience, empathy and
trust are as much tools of our working
day as are pens, computers and the
ever present mobile phone – such tools
are as useful to a member of the
CareLink team as they are to a mother.
As the CareLink offices are constantly a
hive of activity, I have always tried to
be very organised in how I go about
my work and I feel that this has now
helped me at home with my daughter.
This is especially so on work days,
when bottles have to be made, clothes
laid out and breakfast and lunch
prepared for later in the day, while
getting myself ready for another day in
CareLink.
Now that I am a working mum, I can
more readily appreciate the challenges
and difficulties of caring for someone
who is dependant on you and trying to
juggle five or ten things at the same
time. While the skills that I gained
from being part of the CareLink Team
prepared me for motherhood, I am
hoping that my new experiences and
skills as a mother will benefit me
within the team – after all, you never
know when expertise in how to get
spaghetti bolognaise out of your
clothes will be really useful!
By Nicky Scudds, CareLink
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RehabCare UK
Rehab UK’s Parliamentary Pancake Race
grows in stature
Rehab Winning Team
Media Scrum
Living with Brain Injury
David, who was a client at the London Brain Injury Centre
until last year, received his brain injury many years ago. He
tells us about his experiences and shares his insight into
Rehab UK’s work.
In 1998 I was diagnosed as having since birth a AVM in the
brain, which means the arteries and the veins in it were
joined meaning I had high pressure blood seeping into the
veins which are only built for low pressure blood. This was
causing them to swell and in my case the swelling was
pressing on an optic nerve and causing blindness in both
eyes. When I went for an eye test the optician asked me
when I had received my brain damage.
During surgery in October 2000 the surgeon got rid of about
90% of the AVM. July 21st 2001 – I had a Brain Hemorrhage
leaving me in a coma for about 8 weeks. I spent about 5
months in different hospitals thinking I was ok. I couldn’t
wait to get out and back home into normal life, only when
the time came I realised I wasn’t back to normal. I couldn’t
remember things or recognise people, including my wife if I
met her away from our home. When I left Hommerton
Hospital I was recommended to go for an interview at
Rehab UK. I thought great, everything would soon be
normal.
On joining Rehab UK I soon learnt this wouldn’t be the case.
They are not magicians. They can’t make you see again,
speak properly, walk or cure the damage caused by the
injury. What they can do is give you the strategies to deal
with the problems life has dealt, then it is up to us to put
our training into good use and develop our futures. Before I
went to Rehab I had no confidence. My legs would shake as
I left the house always worried about what the day had in
store for me. As life goes on I have made many mistakes
and treated them as tasks to put right.
In Rehab UK you realise you are not the only one with brain
damage and this helped me to realise the benefit I was
getting from their training. I know now that without it I
wouldn’t be holding down a good job and also travelling
with my wife all over the world and enjoying my life again.
From my heart, thank you Rehab UK.
By David Bromley
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East/South East
Day Trip to Kilkenny
Castle
On Friday 23rd March, a group of us went to
Kilkenny Castle. There is free entry on every
Friday during March. A tour guide showed us
around the castle. We looked at a video for 10
minutes first. We were brought into the sitting
room, library, hallway and bedrooms. There
were beautiful paintings on the walls from
years ago. We walked around the gardens
outside the castle as well, as it was a lovely
sunny day. After our visit to the castle, we went
into the Kilkenny Design Centre but none of us
bought anything as everything was very
expensive. After that we went down town to
Dunnes Stores Restaurant for lunch before
returning to the centre on the bus. It was a
really nice day out.
By Elizabeth McHugh, RehabCare Carlow
From Left: Michael Carton, Elizabeth McHugh, John Sheehan, Sean
Sketton, Teresa McLoughlin, Laura Agar, Irene Daly and Patricia
Nolan
How we used to spend Saturdays
When I look at my grandchildren now and listen to them as to how they are going to spend their Saturday, I think back to
when I was young over seventy years ago, when as children the way we spent Saturdays was not a case of putting your
feet up, going to the shops or bowling.
Our kitchen seventy years ago in Dun Laoghaire was a big homely place. On one side we had a mahogany sideboard with
big mirrors on it, which held all my mother’s prized possessions of Waterford glass and silver. On the other side of the room
there was an old fashioned dresser filled with delph and copper kettles. There was a Stanley range on which all the cooking
was done. In the middle of the room there was a large wooden table surrounded by six wooden chairs and two big
comfortable armchairs on each side of the range.
Saturday morning was always a hive of activity in our house. We had a leather shop in the front and my mother had to look
after that as my father had died in 1936. We had to put all the chairs out into the back garden, the dresser had to be
emptied and scrubbed down. This was done weekly. All the delph was washed and put back in place. The table was
scrubbed white. I remember the tubs of Vim we used to get the wood white.
The floor then had to be scrubbed. After that, we had to go out into the garden to scrub all the chairs with soapy water. That
was a few hours gone on a Saturday morning.
Then, in the afternoon, I remember having to go up to Hicks pork shop and queueing up to get sausages and pudding for
Sunday morning breakfast. There was always a very large queue. Come evening time, any shopping that had to be done
was taken care of, and then it was time for everyone to wash their hair. A big galvanised bath was taken into a room for us
to bathe in. Kettles of water were heated for the bath.
We then listened to the radio until nine o’clock until we retired to bed, tired but happy. This work was always just taken for
granted and nobody complained. These were times when industriousness was valued and all children were trained in
domestic tasks to prepare them for life ahead.
So, it is with amusement that I now hear my grandchildren talk about how they will ‘take it easy’ on Saturdays. If only they
knew….
By Betty Halpin, Park House Stillorgan
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East/South East
EDS Course in Waterford
The Inter.Com Centre run the EDS course in Waterford with Pobal and it is coordinated by a lady called Joan Holden. EDS stands for Enhancing Disabilities
Services programme. The course is held in the Inter.Com centre on the Yellow
Road and in the Mount Sion Centre in Waterford City.
I got involved because Delia White the Programmes Supervisor asked me if I
would like to do a course that would update and enhance my work skills and I
jumped at the chance. During the course I did Computer Skills, Office Skills, Food
Hygiene, First Aid, Health/Life Skills and Manual Handling. I also did some work
experience. After completing the course it was offered to four others from
RehabCare in Waterford – Gordon Bowers, Keith Whelan, Maria Allen and Olan
Roring.
The course was officially launched in Waterford City Hall by the Mayor of
Waterford. On the day, as well as it being the official launch of the programme,
the students who participated in the course were presented their certificates by
Minister Martin Cullen.
By being involved in this course I not only enhanced my work skills in many
areas, ranging from computers to manual handling, but I have also gained
confidence. This helps me not only in my supported employment job in Castle
Furniture but also in my role in the General Industries Workshop in RehabCare.
By doing the course my leadership skills have also been enhanced which helps
in my role as Waterford NRAC Chairperson.
David Supple and his Mum at the EDS
course Graduation
By David Supple, RehabCare Waterford
Annual Waterford NRAC Election NRAC
The Annual Waterford NRAC Election
was held on January 30th 2007.
Sixteen people put themselves forward
as candidates in the election. At a
house meeting everyone who was a
candidate stood up and told everyone
else why they wanted to be on the
Committee and what they would do if
they were elected. The staff made
ballot papers with each candidate’s
picture and name on it and we had a
secret ballot.
The people who were elected were
Pat Cassin, Terry Coady, David Supple,
Teresa Kelly, Richard White, Gordon
Bowers and Joseph O'Shea.
The officers of the new Committee are:
• David Supple – Chairperson
• Pat Cassin – Vice-chair
• Teresa Kelly – Secretary
• Terry Coady – Treasurer
• Richard White, Joseph O’Shea and
Gordon Bowers – Committee members
The first goal we have for the year is
about Health & Safety and manual
handling in the centre. We are having
a Health and Safety week the second
week in May. The next goal is planning
Waterford RehabCare’s annual Day Trip.
When we come back from our summer
holiday we will be looking at Road
Safety around our Centre and in
Waterford city. And our final goal for
the year will be organising the
Christmas party.
By Mary Power, RehabCare Waterford
As a member of the NRAC
committee in Waterford here are a
few things that we do:
• NRAC put out a suggestion box to
allow everyone make suggestions on
the service
• NRAC speak for themselves and
others
• We keep an eye out for any
problems in the centre
• We keep people informed of
changes in the service
• We are here to listen
By Richard White, RehabCare
Waterford
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East/South East
The KnockLofty Rural Project
At long last an ambitious rural
development at Knocklofty on the
borders of Tipperary and Waterford is
complete. Set in beautiful surroundings
close to the River Suir with the Galtee
Mountains visible in the background, it
looks more like the Swiss Alps instead
of being only 3 miles outside Clonmel.
The development is a joint venture
between RehabCare and the Tipperary
Association for Special Needs with the
financial support of the HSE South East,
Waterford County Council and the
Department of the Environment. It will
eventually provide accommodation for
thirteen people with one semi-
independent and two independent
units.
workshop, as well as a barn for a
variety of rural activities.
An Activation Centre is due to be up
and running by September this year to
provide a variety of activities for up to
25 people. Outdoor activities will be
horticultural with a large greenhouse
and gardening areas. We are hoping to
eventually obtain some hens and pigs,
with more exotic animals (ranging
from goats to llamas) eagerly being
talked about. Indoor areas consist of a
canteen and meeting area with rooms
intended for arts and crafts, and
computer skills. Separately there is a
large woodworking and pottery
The first three residents have moved in
following visits to the site to choose
bedrooms, furniture, interior décor, and
names for the houses. A further three
people will eventually fill the first 6bed unit with the 5-bed and two
independent units occupied by the end
of the year.
Seen here is Karen Daly checking out the new kitchen
Visitors are always welcome but please
bring your wellies!
By David Frith, Residential Services
Manager
Activation Centre
Advocacy
The NRAC committee is an advocacy representative committee for the clients in the centre. It helps people to be more
confident in speaking up for themselves. If a person is a bit shy in speaking up the NRAC committee can do it for them if
the person wants it. Advocacy has helped me to speak up a bit more for myself and sometimes I would speak on
behalf of another client if they wanted me to. Through NRAC we are hoping to get a petition signed concerning road
safety in our area and after the elections we hope to contact our local council representatives to put forward this
petition to the council.
By Josephine Doyle, RehabCare Kildare
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East/South East
James Havens R.I.P.
James will be remembered by his many friends in RehabCare Carlow. He
was a very independent person who would decide if he wished to go on
daytrips/ shopping etc. by judging what was the means of transport,
because he wanted to have the opportunity to stop and have a cigarette,
so it was a major surprise when he decided to go with us on the trip to Paris
in 2002. Although he was very nervous of flying, he did, and had a
wonderful time. He talked about many of his memories up to the end.
Within the centre, he took part in our karaoke sessions but would only sing
songs from the Elvis selection. His favourite was ‘The Wonder of You’. He
was a great fan of western films and his favourite film was ‘The Magnificent
Seven’. James came from England and he was very proud of this. He was
delighted to come in to the centre and give everybody a hard time when
England won matches, but would say nothing when they lost. He had no
comment to make about the last rugby match in Croke Park. His favourite
soccer team was Newcastle Utd.
James Havens
Horseracing was his real passion and he was well known amongst bookies
around town. James was a very private person, so if he won or lost, you were never told how much. He went through the
racing list on the paper with special friends in the centre, and the feeling is if there is a TV in heaven, it will be hard to get to
see it, as the gentle giant will be watching the racing from Cheltenham. James had a unique personality, and it took people
time to understand him, but when it came to look for time off to see a race, he was well able to have it all worked out as to
why you had to give him the time off. One just could not say no to him.
He took part in pool competitions within the centre and the South East region centres, and he took great pride in having his
photo taken when our centre won the Intercentre Competitions.
James will be remembered in many ways, as he had the ability to befriend people at different levels and for different reasons,
but all was done with a great respect for people who had time for him.
May he rest in peace.
From all at RehabCare Carlow
My First Day
My first day in RehabCare was a good day. I knew a few people from here like Joe and Nigel but it took me a few days
to get to know everybody. You have a good laugh here and good fun. I enjoy playing pool and sometimes I like doing
art or cooking. I like doing sign language too and playing football on Thursday. We have meetings on Monday and Friday.
Rebecca is my supervisor. I hope to get a full time or part time job soon – a good job with good money. I like going
swimming with our other staff member Jack once a month – it is good fun with the lads and we have a bit of splash
around.
By Gary Burton, RehabCare Bray
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East/South East
You’re a Star
Congratulations and well done to our four
contestants: Brigid Delaney, Elizabeth
McHugh, Irene Daly and John Langton who
took part in ‘You’re a Star’ in the Seven
Oaks Hotel on Wednesday night 28th
March in aid of the Special Olympics. They
took to the stage and did us all proud with
the performances they gave of the songs
‘Paper Roses’, ‘Crystal Chandelier’, ‘ One
Day at a Time’ and ‘Hello’. They were up
against a very high standard of talent with
the other contestants, but did not let it
daunt them in any way. It was a very
enjoyable night and the 12 finalists chosen
go forward to the final in May. We wish all
of them the very best of luck.
Irene Daly
From all at RehabCare Carlow
John Langton
Pool Tournaments
My name is Ian and I attend RehabCare
in Kildare. We have many different
programmes running in our centre;
some of these are Creative Writing, Art,
Numeracy, Computers etc.
As we have a pool table and I thought
it would be nice to have a pool
tournament, so I spoke to the staff and
they said “Yes – go ahead and start
one”. I got all the names of the clients
who were prepared to compete – these
totalled twenty in all. At €2 per entry, I
collected €40 altogether. I then put all
the names into a hat and made the
draw in the presence of five people, so
that it was seen to be fair and above
board. Then we started the
tournament.
The winner of each match went into
the next round and this carried on until
there were only two players left for the
Final. When the Final was played I
divided out the money which was €15
for first place, €12 for second, and the
two runners-up played each other for
€7 and €6 respectively.
I hope to have more tournaments in
the future and I am thinking of inviting
clients from other centres to come and
have a few games with us.
By Ian Murphy, RehabCare Kildare
Bowling
I went with the Kildare RehabCare group on the train to Carlow for a bowling
match. We divided into teams to start our games. When the match was over
we all went out for lunch together. After lunch we went for a lovely long
walk. At 2.30 pm we got the train back to Kildare, arriving at 3.45 to meet
our bus at the train station. We all got home safely and were very happy with
our lovely day out.
By Adrienne Foley, RehabCare Kildare
8
Advocacy
The National RehabCare Advocacy
Committee in our centre in
Kildare represents our views and
ideas, and works to make our
Centre as good as possible. The
committee informs the staff of
any suggestions or problems we
may have. It also gives us a
forum, and encouragement, to
speak up for ourselves. To me,
advocacy means speaking up for
yourself and not being afraid to
do so. It also means you can
have a difference of opinion with
other people – but to do it in a
nice way.
The NRAC committee meets with
the clients every week and we
discuss the programmes that are
running in our centre and also
those programmes we would like
to see in action.
By Gerry Lambe, RehabCare
Kildare
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East/South East
Literacy Class
Every Thursday we have our literacy group. We
have it here in RehabCare. There are six in the
group. Carol is our teacher. We do things like
reading, spelling and writing.
It is a very interesting class and Carol is a very
nice person and good teacher.
I don’t find it difficult and look forward to it every
week. These skills we learn can help us in our
everyday life, which I think is great. When we
finish we will get a certificate for our
achievements.
By Glenn Walsh, RehabCare Waterford
Being a Musician
I started playing the drums in 2002. I always wanted to play the
drums in a band.
I play for the De la Salle pipe band. We play every Sunday from
11.00- 1.00 and every Monday night from 7.30-9.00 in the De la
Salle School on Patrick St.
For my first time playing outside Ireland, we played in Scotland. I
have walked in parades for four years. I never get nervous when I
am walking in the parades.
Disney on Ice
On the 12th of April I went to Disney on Ice
with RehabCare Bray. The show was at 3
o’clock. The costumes were beautiful. I liked
Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty the best.
By Belinda Flynn, The Phoenix Service
RehabCare Bray
By Declan Purcell, RehabCare Waterford
RehabCare
I like Rehab, it’s delightful and trilightfull.
It makes you laugh. Makes you Scream with delight.
Sun in the morning when I wake up and have to come in to Rehab.
Happy smiles from everybody at work as if we were in Disneyland.
Big large door waiting for you
To open for you.
Jack the man, and Kiara the happy one and Rebecca smiling as always
And Ashling is working in her office as usual.
There is a place in Bray, Rehab it’s called,
The bright place and if you have problems,
You come here, you come see.
By Bridget Kavanagh, RehabCare Bray
Best Club in Bray
I am a member of Bray Lakers club. This is a fun
club for people with disabilities. The club stated in
1989. I started in the club in 1990. I am in the club
17 years now.
I play bowling and bocce and sometimes I play the
basketball. I was a player in the Area regional and
National Games, which were held after The World
Games.
The good news for Bray Lakers is that we got a
clubhouse – we were waiting on a premises and at
last we have one!
By Marian O’Rourke, The Phoenix Service,
RehabCare Bray
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North East/Midlands
FETAC Awards
Dundalk
An Awards Ceremony was held
recently in Dundalk Sheltered
Workshop for people who received
FETAC Certificates in Craft and
Computers. A great night was had
by all!
Snack Attack
I take part in the snack attack programme on
a Wednesday morning. This programme is
about learning to make snack food that we
will be able to make at home. We decided
as a group what we would like to make then
we write down the ingredients. We use the
new scan check-outs to pay for our groceries.
We have made scones and fruit salads. We
have tasted fruits like mango and pineapples
and made toasted sandwiches, bagels and
eggs. One of my goals for my PCP was to
cook at home. I made beans on toast for
mum and me.
By David Coyle, Dundalk Resource Centre
Dundalk ARCH Club
Front row seated from left:
Kathleen Lamb HSE, Siobhan McCabe FETAC, Catherine McDaid,
Councillor Noel Lennon Chairman UDC Dundalk, Rose Marie Sheelan,
Noreen Crotty, Una McNamee
Back row standing:
Aveen Toner Regional Support Manager, Deirdre Quinn, Gerry
O’Callaghan, Lisa Fitzpatrick, Jimmy Hanlon, Heather Alexander, Niall
Connor, Liz Hughes, John Meegan, Therese Crosbie Area Manager HSE,
Joseph Smith, Attracta Burns
The ARCH club started in the Order of Malta Hall
in 1977. This year it celebrates 30 years in
Dundalk. There are ARCH clubs now all over the
country. On the 24th March ARCH clubs from all
over Ireland met in Galway for competitions
including Art, Crafts, Writing and Photography.
Jim McAleer from the centre, is one of the
longest serving members of the club which is
now held on a Thursday night in the Friary Hall. I
enjoy going. They have parties at special times
e.g. Valentines Day. They also go on a tour at
the end of the season.
By Jimmy Hanlon, Dundalk Sheltered Workshop
Self Awareness Class
In the centre we had a programme called Self Awareness. As part of the
programme we did a programme on bullying. We watched discs on the
computer and talked about different forms of bullying. We also
discussed who we should tell if someone was bullying us. It is really
important to talk to someone.
We also looked at issues to do with budgeting and using our money.
Everyone really enjoyed the programme.
By Jimmy McAleer, Dundalk Sheltered Workshop
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North East/Midlands
My Job in JJB Dundalk
My name is Martin O’Connor. I have a
part time job in JJB in Dundalk. I work 3
full days a week. I work on the football
pitches. I take out the goal posts and
sort out pitches for games. I like my job
and I have made some new friends,
Danny and Neil.
I am treated just the same as everyone
else which I think is great.
I would love to see more people with
disabilities employed in Ireland. Since I
started in JJB my friend Brian has since
been employed by JJB. I got the chance
to meet the Taoiseach Bertie Aherne in
our centre to promote “Paid
employment I can do it.”
I told him all about my job and how
much it means to me.
By Martin O’Connor, Dundalk Resource
Centre
A Seat at the Table
I was chosen in an election between the
centres of Carroll Village and Coes Road
as their representative on Seat at the
Table. I get the opportunity to attend the
Dundalk Institute of Technology once
per month along with people from other
RehabCares and other groups in the
North East. Some of the modules I have
studied are History of the Disabled in
Ireland, Communications, Leadership
and Inclusiveness, Interview Techniques
and Advocacy.
On the 20th February there was a Public
Meeting in the Nuremore Hotel. There
was a big crowd there. I am the
chairman of the parliament. Everyone
spoke introducing themselves and also
explaining what we had done so far.
People had an opportunity to ask
questions from the floor. There were
some people from the South East group
there. A number of people from the
centre went along to the open meeting.
By Michael Smith, Dundalk Sheltered
Workshop
Our NRAC
Committee
We meet and learn how to take
turns when talking and that it is
important to listen to people when
they are talking. Also that it’s
important people understand you
and that you get your point across,
while being honest and polite.
This helps all of us to speak our
mind.
From the NRAC Committee,
Portlaoise Resource Centre
Dail
Trip
Service Users from Dundalk Resource
Centre meet Enda Kenny during a trip to
the Dáil
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North East/Midlands
Mama Mia Concert
I recently attended the Mama Mia concert in Dublin, at the Point
Theatre. I really enjoyed the show – the staff and I had been planning
it for months as it was one of my person centred goals.
We set off at 4pm and arrived in Dublin by 6pm. The day had been
especially planned around my likes and needs. First we went for a nice
meal and enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere. It was then time to go to
the concert. I loved the BUZZ and the atmosphere – the lights, sounds
and scenes.
I hope to plan an event like it again soon.
By Mary Farrell, Highfield House
Mary Farrell, David Ward and Helena Corrigan from Highfield House
Dance
Fun In Funderland
A few months ago we started a
new dance programme made up
of six girls from Carroll Village
and three girls from Coes Road.
We do our dancing in Coes Road.
The dance that we do is exercise
and keeping time to the beat. It
was my first time dancing and I
really enjoy it.
The morning of the 11th of January was
dull and frosty but for Helena and David
it was filled with excitement as both of
them were looking forward to a day out
at Funderland in Dublin’s RDS.
By Dolores Mc Keever, Dundalk
Resource Centre
Supporting staff for the outing included
Olivia, Sandra and Tommy. Our first point
of call was Enfield for a jumbo roll,
which everyone enjoyed and provided
us with much-needed energy for the
day ahead.
On arrival the excitement of what was in
store for us had everyone feeling great –
bright lights, loud music and the smell of
candyfloss didn’t disappoint. Following
two hours of fun we went to ‘Eddie
Rockets’ for French fries, southern fried
chicken and some soft drinks. After that
we headed home, as it had been a fun
filled but tiring day!
From Highfield House
“Cats” The Musical
On Thursday the 8th of March, we went to see “Cats” the musical. It was in the Grand Opera House in Belfast and it was a
musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber. We left the centre that morning at 10.30. We travelled by minibus. We stopped at McDonalds
at 12.30 for lunch. It was lovely.
When we got to the theatre we were shown to our seats and the musical started at 2pm. The stage was an alley with
newspaper and rubbish to add to the effect. In the background there were cats’ eyes flashing. The cats came from all sides of
the theatre and went up on the stage. They started to dance and sing. Some of our favourite cats were Angelica, Deuteronomy
and Grisabella. There were so many good songs, but we all liked “Memory” the best. We all enjoyed the musical and we had
a wonderful day. It was one of the best musicals we have ever been to.
For some people it was their first time in Belfast and they really enjoyed themselves. The musical finished at 5pm and we
arrived back in Monaghan at 7pm that evening. The next day some people were tired but it was worth it.
From all in RehabCare Monaghan
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North East/Midlands
Eileen was a service user in our centre
in Tullamore for a long time. She was
very funny and loved laughing and
joking with her friends while she
worked. She also loved animals. We
were very sad when we heard the news
that Eileen had passed away. In January
we held a Mass for Eileen and also for
Keith Hewson who was a service user
who passed away in February 2005. It
was a lovely Mass. We framed a picture
of Eileen which is now hanging up in
our centre. We also got a plaque
engraved and put it on the seat outside
in her honour. Eileen is missed by
everyone in our centre, both service
users and staff, and she will always be
in our prayers.
In Memory of Eileen O’Connor RIP
By Ursula O’Brien & Christine Delaney,
Tullamore Sheltered Workshop
Swim and Gym
We attend a gym and swim
programme every Tuesday. A
group of us head up to the local
leisure centre. We spend an hour
in the gym where we all have a
programme that has been done
up by a gym instructor. We will
be getting these looked at
regularly as we get better so
they get changed to suit us. As
we improve we will be
increasing our weights. We then
have a break and head for the
pool. We have great fun playing
ball in the pool.
By Daniel Eletrash and Brian
Travers, RehabCare Navan
Independent Travel
Prison Trip
On Tuesday 13th March, five of us
went to Portlaoise on the town link
bus as part of our independent travel
module in the Atlas programme. We
left at 10 o’clock and we arrived in
Portlaoise at 11. We went to the
shopping centre until 12 o’clock and
then we went to Midlands prison. We
were in the prison from 12.15 until 2
o’clock. When we were waiting to go
into the prison we were in a room
with the two doors closed. We had to
put our phones, bags and coats into a
locker before we went in. P.J Delaney,
who is a prison officer, came and
showed us around. He showed us
where the prisoners exercised and had
their dinner. All of the prisoners do
woodwork, cooking, reading and
writing. Then he showed us the
visiting rooms where the people visit
the prisoners. When we were finished
the visit, we collected our phones,
coats and bags from the lockers.
By Olive Hickey, Tullamore Sheltered
Workshop
The Marie Keating Foundation
On the 5th of April, The Marie Keating
Foundation came to the centre to talk
about cancer. It has been established to
provide cancer information and
awareness free of charge to the
general public throughout Ireland.
women could get. An important thing
we learned was that eating healthily
helps protect us against cancer. Eating a
wide variety of vegetables, fruits,
pulses and cereals will certainly help
reduce the risk.
We were split into two groups, men
and women. We learned about cancer
that men could get and what cancer
There are a lot of different types of
cancer that we learned about at the
talk. There is breast, skin, prostate,
testicular and bowel. We learned how
to protect ourselves from cancer such
as skin cancer by using sun cream. We
were taught how to check for signs of
cancer also.
It was a very interesting talk and we
learned a lot.
From RehabCare, Monaghan
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South
North East/Midlands
East/East
R.D.A.I. Annual Conference
At the R.D.A.I. Annual Conference in the Bloomfield Hotel Mullingar, AnnMarie Murray won first prize in the colouring competition. The President of
the R.D.A.I. handed Ann-Marie a red rosette and a miniature horse to great
applause and congratulations from the R.D.A.I. Kells Volunteers. Ann-Marie
was a great Ambassador for RehabCare and the whole day was very
memorable.
By Catherine Coull, RehabCare Navan
Our Garden
We started up our gardening
programme this year and
decided to put in a wildlife
garden. We have planted two
hedges, one with blackberry,
gooseberry and beech so it will
produce berries for the birds.
We have also prepared a
flower garden which we
planted up with seed to attract
butterflies. We still have a lot
of work to complete it and we
will be busy all summer.
By Margaret Vaughey and Josie
Coloe, RehabCare Navan
My New Job
I started a new job Supermacs in Navan on 11th September 2006. I really enjoy it. All
the staff are really nice to me and treat me really well. I work in all the areas. I work
in the restaurant cleaning the floors and tables and on the till serving the customers. I
work a roster and have to check it every week as my days change. I really enjoy my
new job.
By Elaine Fahy, RehabCare Monaghan
Our Relaxation Room
We recently had our recovery room done up and it will now be used for many
functions. Aoife who does beauty with us took control and got new paint, new
flooring and a new bed and bed linen. Michael Neville worked hard with Aoife to
get the room painted. It is now a nice restful place to be. The room will now be a
lovely place to relax in, recover in and we can’t wait to get all our treatments in.
By Helen Flemming and Grace Nolan, RehabCare Navan
My Wedding Day
My wedding day took place on 28th
October 2006. It was the happiest day
of my life. I married my best friend Neil
Casey.
By Doreen Casey, RehabCare Navan
The Mad
Hatters Hen
Party
We had a surprise hen party for
Doreen before she left to get
married. Everyone had to wear
hats – there were pink cowgirl
hats, horse riding hats, witches
hats and more. There was a disco
and a great laugh as we all saw
Doreen off in style to start her
married life.
By Lorraine, Susan and Avril,
RehabCare Navan
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North East/Midlands
ADVOCACY
What does NRAC do in your centre?
The NRAC meeting is held once every
month. They work on behalf of all the
service users. They take issues to the
meetings e.g. getting the yellow
boxes out in front of the centre to
keep clear for buses. When issues
arise sometimes the county councils
and governments need to be
contacted. NRAC is a voice for the
people, a support that gets things
done.
How has Advocacy made a difference
in your life?
Advocacy has made a difference – it
helps people to achieve things that
are important to them. It is a voice
and a support for all.
Advocacy means
1. To stand up for what you believe in
2. To speak up for what you believe in
3. To put your point across
4. To be confident in what you do or
say
5. To be independent
6. To look out for one another
From all in RehabCare Monaghan
Trip to Aras an Uachtaráin
On the 5th of April, fifteen service users and three staff
went to Aras an Uachtaráin. Six of us went in the space
wagon and twelve went on the train. We got taxis up to
the door of Aras an Uachtaráin. We got a nice surprise
when we were told that the President was there and
she was going to meet us. There was another group
there from RehabCare Dundalk. When President
McAleese came into the room, she came around to
everyone and we introduced ourselves to her. We got a
group photograph taken with her. We were then shown
around some of the rooms. We went out to the garden
and went to the Hyde room where we had tea, coffee,
7up, pastries and cakes. We had a great day!
By Gary McCabe, Tullamore Sheltered Workshop
Standing (from left to right): Greg Callaghan, Jenny Monaghan, Paul Byrne, Claire Gill, Breda Malone, Andrew Minnock, Thomas
Champ, Geraldine Harrington, Cathal Molloy, Joe Lawless, Veronica Conroy, Caroline Byrne, Kieran Shields, Jonathon Fitzpatrick,
Joseph Mulvin, David Matthews
Seated (from left): Harry Beacon, President Mary McAleese, Gary McCabe
Health and Safety
Committee
We have started a health and safety committee in our
centre. There are eleven members and we are all
responsible for different areas of our centre. We have a
weekly checklist that we do with the help of the staff
and then have a meeting. Any problems we have are
fed back to the health and safety manager who brings
them to the manager and to the service users through
NRAC. We put together new notice boards for the
centre and have helped to sort out storage problems
for people’s bags that were on the floor.
First Aid
I do a First Aid Programme on a Tuesday morning
in our Mighty Men’s Group. Barry, Paddy, Martin,
Liam, David and I are in the group. Michelle does
the programme with us. We have learned how to
put on bandages, the recovery position, acting
out the scene of an accident, quizzes, and burns.
It is good to know about these things as I could
help someone who had an accident.
By Stephen Murphy, Dundalk Resource Centre
By Lorraine Kangley Chairperson, RehabCare Navan
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South/Midwest
South East/East
RehabCare Blennerville Shines
Brightly in Easter Parade
taking to the streets to wow the crowds.
“Me and Jane were gas as Posh and Becks,” Tommy
Cantillon said, “I wore a sarong, an English football jersey,
spiked my hair and dyed it blonde.”
For several hectic weeks before the parade everyone was
busy designing and making costumes using a variety of
materials including paint, cardboard and polystyrene. The art
room bin was cleverly transformed into the robot R2D2
bringing much laughter from the parade’s spectators. Dolly
Parton refused to reveal how she made her costume,
although the centre’s toilet roll supply was seriously
depleted.
Storm troopers, Jedis, robots and a range of celebrities
exploded onto the streets of Tralee at Easter when service
users, staff and their families at RehabCare in Blennerville
took part in the town’s annual parade.
Organised by the community arts organisation Samhlíocht
Chiarraí, the theme of the parade was “stars” and we chose
to dress up as characters from Star Wars, a number of wellknown showbiz faces and a uniquely designed Aries ram
storm trooper. So fetching was this costume that its designer
and wearer Richard Smyth was told by one woman that he
looked like “her knight in shining armour”. Everyone
twinkled in the flashlights of the local paparazzi before
Last year the theme of the parade was “roots” and everyone
dressed up as vegetables simmering in a giant stew pot,
and traditional Irish characters. Ann Lane, who played
Deirdre from Coronation Street complete with a five feet
long cigarette, said: “It was much better than last year. The
parade route was longer and being at night really fitted in
with the theme of stars.”
And stars weren’t the only thing adorning the night sky. As
the parade came to an end there was an impressive
fireworks display in the town park.
Everyone at RehabCare in Blennerville would like to thank
Gerry O’Donnell, Pat Brackenbury and all those who helped
make the Easter parade such a success.
From all at RehabCare Blennerville
Obstacles Can Be Surmounted …
I’ve got the incentive, I’ve got the drive With application I’ve produced the output:
Over 750 poems in less than three scant years,
evident testimony to the glad fact I can write!
Better mention the stories, 66 to date,
focus of early endeavour, now pleasingly achieved!
Likewise personally gratifying is having recently rewritten
lyrics to popular songs - twenty and counting, a score or
more!
Cause for pride, inspiring to share …
The future appears peachy
with hardly a cloud
to mar the horizon,
my major concern, poor eyesight.
So long as I persist
at not overtaxing my vision
all indicators are favourable
I’ll continue to thrive,
like Chris de Burgh, personal hero,
my generation’s jet-setter!
I’ve more than muddled through
since former days quite difficult,
tough times through which I struggled,
challenged and burdened.
And yet, inspiration beckoned
illuminating Tunnel’s End …
From drab realities I’ve emerged
to realise brighter possibilities of late!
It’s my luck to have more than muddled through,
traversing daunting hurdles,
bright future in prospect,
encouragement to share insights:
“Keep striving, you’ll make it.
Persistence pays off!”
Muddling through understates the case.
Obstacles can be surmounted … I’m living proof!
By Richard Smyth, RehabCare Blennerville
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South/Mid West
About Advocacy
An interview with Paul O´Neill and Pat Hackett from RehabCare in Limerick.
Pat Hackett
51 years old
Lives in Limerick
Hobby: He likes watching television and listening to
the radio
Dislikes: He doesn´t like getting up in the morning
Paul O´Neill
29 years old
Lives in Limerick
Hobby: He likes going out, watching matches like
rugby and football, travelling and swimming
Dislikes: He has no dislikes
Question 1: What have NRAC been doing in your centre?
NRAC is good because it gives help to people. In our centre we have been holding information talks. We have invited people
in with other religions to give a sense of aspects of different religious viewpoints. We have talked about CCTV in the
community to protect people in the centre. We brought in Sergeant O´Neill, the community Garda in Limerick. He spoke about
the crime that is going on in the city. It opened our minds to danger. It is nice to meet new people and to exchange new
ideas and points of view.
Question 2: How has advocacy made a difference in your life?
Advocacy has helped us to speak up for ourselves and others. Being on the NRAC committee has given us confidence to get
up and speak in front of a crowd. Advocacy has helped us getting people to listen to the things we are saying.
Question 3: How are you influencing the services you want?
We are getting help from the national NRAC committee and in partnership with government worked on the implementation
of the disability bill. We are going to speak to the politicians about the national election and to review their policy and what
they are standing for. We want to have a right to speak up about disability policy.
Question 4: Sum up what you think Advocacy means
• It means to have a right to speak
• It means equality
• It means respect
• It means supporting each other
• It means speaking up for yourself
Cork FETAC Awards
A number of service users from Brandon House and
Bruach services in Cork recently received FETAC Level
3 certification in Computer Literacy. They were
presented their awards at a ceremony hosted by the
Lord Mayor of Cork during the Lifelong Learning
Festival Week.
Pictured from left are: Kathleen Hurley, Siobhan Burns,
Leonard Corcoran (Computer Tutor), Mary Williamson,
Collette Crowley, Stephen Lynch
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West/North West
Moving
Home
In 2001 I left home and I went to live
in Lake Lodge and stayed there from
May 2001 to February 2002 when I
moved into Clara Glen.
When I lived at home with my mother
I did the cleaning and prepared
breakfast in the morning. My mother
used to eat the parsnips and carrots as
she got them ready for dinner – I was
afraid I would cut my finger doing
them. If my mother was ever going
anywhere she would tell me what time
to put on the dinner, this would be my
job.
When I was younger I could get around
myself but I lost my confidence and
started to use a stick. For the last 5 to
6 years I have been using a walking
frame.
I am a tenant of Newgrove Housing
association. We all pay towards the
Ann, Josie, John, Alberto & Fidelma enjoying a fair day in Tubber
bills and the running of the house – we
are very independent. Everyone is
involved in the cleaning and the
different jobs. I have my own routine
and plan my week with the staff and
the other people we live with. We plan
things like:
• What we are going to have for dinner
• Evening television
• Weekend outings
I find an awful lot of change with
myself.
By Josie Cullen, Sligo Resource Centre
Satisfaction guaranteed with the VEC
2006 has been one of the busiest
years that I can remember in my 10
years with RehabCare. I have
completed three VEC Courses. They
were Consumer Awareness, Personal
Care & Presentation and Advocacy. The
courses ranged from 10-20 weeks in a
three-hour session every week. I felt
they were all very educational and
taught me a lot of skills in dealing
with everyday situations.
Michelle and Marrion were our tutors
from the VEC. In each course there
was only a small number involved,
which was great as the tutor had a lot
of time to spend with each person.
The tutors encouraged us to ask
questions and they had lots of
18
patience and time to explain
everything to us.
I have gained great experience and
personal satisfaction. It has also given
me more confidence in myself. At the
completion of the course we were
given certificates and I felt I had
achieved something special. I would
strongly recommend these courses to
anyone who would be interested in
furthering their education.
I hope to become involved in a
computer course as well as other
courses in 2007.
By Edel McIntyre, Sligo Resource
Centre
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West/North West
Claire Mc Loughlin Tells
of times in RehabCare
I joined RehabCare in 1977, just after my father passed away.
I started work in the garment making section in the old
RehabCare building in Bridge Street. Mrs O’Reilly was our
supervisor. One day I went upstairs and started doing the
rubbers. We also wound up Miranda into rolls and packed
boxes. I moved into the workshop in St Annes in 1997,
where I continued to be involved in sorting work.
I had a health scare in 2002 and I decided to move into the
resource centre. I find it more relaxing; there is an easier
pace. Staff support me with my appointments and I go on
outings like bingo. I take part in the “Go for life” exercise
programme and we have the odd party too. I enjoy bowling
and I like the "Remember When" group we do. We went to
Riverstown Folk Park and had a buttermaking session here in
the centre.
I look forward to the holidays each year. I have many good
friends here in the resource centre and I have happy
Maureen & Claire Remembering how it was
memories of the time I have spent in Bridge Street.
By Claire McLoughlin, Sligo Resource Centre
What NRAC in Sligo has been Doing
Our NRAC Committee in Sligo meets every Thursday for
one hour to discuss issues that are brought to our attention
by other service users. No issue is too big or too small.
We feel empowered as a committee because we see an
outcome to the issues brought to our attention. We have
developed a good working relationship with the manager
of the centre who supports us. We have improved on our
own skills and gained self-confidence by taking an active
role within our centre.
What Advocacy means to us
Advocacy is about having a voice that's listened too and
respected.
Advocacy is empowering people, gaining self-confidence,
aspirations and skills.
Advocacy informs us on issues important to us.
Advocacy promotes equality and gives us choices.
Advocacy is about speaking up for yourself or speaking on
behalf of someone.
Advocacy is about using your rights and responsibilities.
By Mary T Dolan, Bernie Cullen, Adrian Cornwall, Brian
Murrin and John Martin
RehabCare Sligo NRAC Committee
Looking Back on My Life
I went to school in Harmony Hill many years ago, while living in a Hostel in Teeling
Street. I moved from there into a house in Heather View where my friend Paddy
lived and we have since moved twice. I worked over in Bridge Street doing many
different types of jobs. We moved to a new place called St Gerard’s and then moved
to RehabCare a few short years later.
I really like coming in to RehabCare on Mondays. We have a weekly house meeting.
We get to hear about all the different things that are going on in the centre and also
hear about any news to do with Rehab Group.
I enjoy painting and arts & crafts. I love to have a chat with all my great friends
here. I also enjoy going out for coffee with one particular friend Paddy. We all love a
great party and a chance to dance the night away to good music. I also like cooking
in the kitchen and settling down to read a good book.
By Patricia Marren, Sligo Resource Centre
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West/North West
Speaking Up and Stepping Out
I believe advocacy is about speaking up for yourself and letting
people know what you need or want. I let the people working with
me know I needed help getting out and about more in the
community. We decided to apply for a Personal Assistant (P.A.) who is
a guide aid for me.
It all got arranged for me just before Easter. My first P.A. went on
holidays to Cuba; she met a man over there and decided to stay. My
next P.A. is still my current P.A. and we have been working together
for over 3 years.
Having a P.A. has made a big difference to my life. With her help I
can take off up town and go shopping, get my hair done and we
often go swimming too. My P.A. comes to me twice a week at a set
time that we agree on. I get to meet people when I am out and
about and I have gotten to know friends through my P.A.
If I could not have my P.A. it would mean that I would not be able to get out and
about as much. I would feel lost without my P.A. and I would miss both the
company and friendship I have built up with my P.A.
If you are ever looking for something or thinking about becoming more
independent, don’t be afraid to talk to the people working with you as they can
help. I spoke up and got my P.A. and with her help I get out and about in the
community more. I got a P.A. and a friend who is always good for some advice.
By Aisling Egan, Sligo Resource Centre
National Tree Week 2007
SPRING
Spring is here
In my garden dear.
The flowers are bright.
They mask a pretty sight.
The wind becomes wild
Away from the wild.
Bluebells appear
The rose is near.
From my window I see
The beautiful cherry blossom tree,
Pink and white
It makes my heart delight.
The cherry blossom tree
Appears once a year,
It is a symbol of time.
Of nature all sublime.
The outdoors beckons me,
I feel so free.
The hearth side is quenched.
The flowers are drenched.
The theme for this year's National Tree Week was 'Trees for Energy'. A group
from The Resource Centre in Galway participated by helping to plant trees in
Terryland Forest Park. The afternoon was a great success and we will all enjoy
watching the trees as they grow and contribute to a positive environment.
Galway City Council facilitated this event.
From Galway Resource Centre
20
Spring is my favourite season,
The colours are the reason.
The mornings are bright.
The evenings are just right.
By Ailish Higgins, Galway Resource
Centre
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Creative Corner
Competition
For our competition this month we asked you to send us a poster that represented what you think Advocacy is all about.
We had a very creative response, so well done to everyone!
Our overall winner is a group entry from RehabCare
Portlaoise for their very powerful visual representation
of Advocacy. Here’s what they had to say about it:
“Our poster is about team effort – all together as one
working for the things we want. We give respect and
get respect.”
Overall Winner: RehabCare Portlaoise Poster
We also had two runner-up prize-winners.
RehabCare Sligo won for their poster that explains very effectively what Advocacy is all about.
Finally a special congratulations to Domhnall Flynn from Dundalk Resource Centre who won a runner-up prize for his direct
and striking poster.
Runner-up: Poster from RehabCare Sligo
Runner-up: Domhall Flynn’s poster
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South East/East
NRAC
(continued) The New NRAC National Committee talking
about Advocacy and their Roles
“I got elected in November 2006 for a term
of 2 years. I have achieved a lot through
NRAC. I have more confidence, ask more
questions and understand things better.”
Jane Donnelly
“We have been in training from January
about NRAC and our needs to function as a
committee. The sessions involved - What is
Advocacy, Roles of Members/Officers,
Guidelines, Contact Lists, Presentation from
the Communications and Public Affairs Team
and PCP training”
My name is Catalina Keys. I am happy to be
on NRAC and talking to others and finding
out more about it. I am a new member on
the committee and I would like to thank
everyone for voting for me at the last
election, which was in November 2006. I
would also like to thank the staff and clients
for coming with me up to the Glenroyal
Hotel, Maynooth.
We need to help one another, support people
to have a voice to speak up for their rights
and listen to what they have to say.”
Catalina Keys
Jimmy Dooner
“My name is Laura – I am in the Centre in
Athlone. I am pushing forward disability
issues and getting more access for
wheelchairs. I am after getting new ramps in
Athlone. I enjoy meeting new people and
getting things done at a national level.
NRAC training has helped me to understand
the role more clearly which will help all
service users within RehabCare.”
My name is Michael O’Brien – I am a service
user in Cork. I would like as a member of
NRAC to listen to the views of service users
and speak up for people who cannot speak
up for themselves. I am also a member of
RehabCare Training Team.
I would like to see more funding for
Disability Groups.”
Michael O’Brien
Laura Gaffey
NRAC News
NRAC regional days are currently being planned and will be held in each region between June and August.
This is a reminder for all local committees that we will be reviewing the NRAC Guidelines on Bullying for Service Users in the
next couple of months.
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Information Bulletin
Risk Assessments
What is a Risk Assessment?
Safety Matters
By Michelle Peate-Morgan,
Health and Safety Manager
A risk assessment is a careful examination of anything in your
workplace that could cause injury or ill health. The level of
risk you are exposed to is dependent on the combination of
the likelihood of a hazardous event occurring, and the
consequence of the event.
Risk = Likelihood x Consequence
How do I carry out a Risk Assessment?
It’s important that before you carry out a risk assessment you
ensure that you have received the relevant training.
There are six key steps to carrying out a risk assessment:
1. Identify Work Task
You need to make a list of the all the tasks you are
responsible for, anything you manage, the people involved,
the equipment they use and the different locations they work
in.
2. Identify the Risk
In order to identify the risks you will need to know what the
hazards are, who might be harmed and how. You will need to
observe the work being carried out, speak to the staff
concerned, review the safety statement and read up on
hazards relevant to the activity/area.
3. Estimate the Risk
You need to weigh up how serious each risk is. In order to do
this you need to look at how likely it is that something could
go wrong and how serious the outcome would be. This
involves the estimation of the likelihood and the
consequence.
4. Evaluate the Risk
The higher the risk level the more serious the risk is and the
more likely it is you will have to take some action. The best
way of evaluating the risk is by using a Risk Matrix (See
Section 10 of the RehabCare Safety Statement).
5. Record Your Findings
Not only it is good practice but it is also a legal requirement
to record your risk assessment in writing. Once you have it
recorded it’s important you communicate the details to all
staff and ask your staff to sign the risk assessment indicating
they have read and understood its contents and control
measures.
6. Review Your Findings
Finally it’s important that you set a date to review your risk
assessments, annually or sooner. However, there are instances
where it may need to be reviewed earlier:
• Following new legislation
• Following an accident/incident
• Following the introduction of new equipment, procedures
or staff
Tips to improve your risk assessment:
• Make sure it’s suitable and sufficient
• Better data helps make better judgements
• Involve the people it’s likely to affect
• Conditions may vary from site to site so ensure you look
at each site
• Consider “on the spot” assessments, in order to check your
assessments are covering all they need to
Need Further Information?
Please refer to Section 10 in the RehabCare Safety Statement
where you will find more information on Risk Assessments
and Control Measures.
Your comments are always welcome and if you would like any
particular area of Health & Safety covered in the next issue
then
please
send
an
email
to
me
at
[email protected] or phone me at 012057229/087-2848573.
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“People First”
“Person Centred”
“Can Do”
“Partnership”
“Innovation”
If you would like further information on any RehabCare services in
your area, please contact us at:
RehabCare, Roslyn Park, Beach Road, Sandymount, Dublin 4
Tel: +353 1 205 7200
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.rehabcare.ie