The National Federation of Voluntary Bodies Providing Services to People with Intellectual Disability has published an important report “Next Steps – The Journey So Far”.  The report was launched on 29 September 2015 by Minister for State at the Department of Health, Ms. Kathleen Lynch, T.D.

The Next Steps Project which was initiated by the National Federation in 2012, with support from the Social Care Division of the HSE, has as its primary objective the promotion of individualised supports, for people with intellectual disability who receive support from the member organisations of the National Federation in their day to day lives.

Click here to download a copy of the report.

(L-R Alison Harnett, National Federation; Emily Meagher, Self Advocate; Minister Kathleen Lynch, TD at the launch of the Next Steps - Journey So Far report on 29th September 2015)

Comprising some 23 Service Provider participants, the Next Steps Project is essentially a Community of Practice and Learning through which the participants have the opportunity to share experiences and identify meaningful solutions to challenges which arise in supporting people with intellectual disability to live a life of their choosing.

Commenting on the launch of the report, Mr. Brian O’Donnell, Chief Executive, National Federation of Voluntary Bodies stated “The Next Steps Project is a very exciting initiative which has received international acclaim.  Of significant importance is the fact contained in the report that 739 people with intellectual disability in Ireland are now receiving individualised supports provided by organisations participating in the project.

As a National Federation of Service Providers, we look forward with much hope and anticipation to the next phase of the journey which I am certain will continue to bring real change in the lives of people with intellectual disability in the State”.

For further information contact:  info@fedvol.ie