An animated short film aimed at helping people with disabilities to plan effectively for their own futures has been launched by Saint John of God Carmona Services which supports children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Aimee Richardson, voice of Punky in the new RTE cartoon series of the same name, voices the central character of Su, a woman in her twenties with Down Syndrome. Together with her friendly computer guide, P.C. Planner, they explore Su’s everyday routine, looking for opportunities to make the changes Su wants that will lead to a more independent and fulfilled life. Animated by John Walsh, a recent IADT graduate, the cartoon entitled “P.C. Planner At Your Service” is designed to be watched as a full movie or scene by scene, as part of the person-centred planning process.

Person-centred planning can be a difficult process to explain and understand. According to Michelle Quinn of Carmona Services who has led the project, animation is a fantastic medium for giving people information in a clear and simple way. “We have had very positive feedback from the individuals who have already seen the film; all agreed that it was a great tool to understand the process.”

Aimee Richardson who attends Carmona Services says: “When I first saw the animation I really enjoyed it. I found it easy to understand and I learned a lot about why person centred planning is so important.”

How to order the film

Copies of “PC Planner At Your Service” can be ordered at the launch or from Michelle Quinn at michelle.quinn@sjog.ie. Cost: €5 to cover post and packaging.