Irish Wheelchair Association

Irish Wheelchair Association

The Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) is a national organization in Ireland that provides services and support to people with physical disabilities. Founded in 1960, the IWA has grown to become one of the largest and most influential disability organizations in the country.

History

The Irish Wheelchair Association was established in 1960 by a group of wheelchair users and their families. The founding members aimed to create an organization that would advocate for the rights and needs of people with physical disabilities in Ireland. Over the years, the IWA has expanded its services and influence, becoming a key player in the disability sector.

Services

The IWA offers a wide range of services to support individuals with physical disabilities. These services include:

• Personal Assistance Services: Providing personal assistants to help individuals with daily activities and promote independent living.
• Transport Services: Offering accessible transport options to enable people with disabilities to travel for work, education, and social activities.
• Resource and Outreach Centres: Operating centers across Ireland that provide information, support, and social activities for members.
• Sports and Recreation: Organizing sports and recreational activities to promote physical health and social inclusion.
• Advocacy and Campaigning: Working to influence public policy and raise awareness about the rights and needs of people with disabilities.

Membership

Membership in the Irish Wheelchair Association is open to anyone with an interest in supporting the rights and needs of people with physical disabilities. Members can participate in various activities, access services, and contribute to the organization's advocacy efforts.

Governance

The IWA is governed by a board of directors, which includes individuals with disabilities, family members, and professionals with expertise in disability issues. The board is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the organization and ensuring that it meets its goals and objectives.

Funding

The Irish Wheelchair Association is funded through a combination of government grants, fundraising activities, and donations from individuals and organizations. This funding supports the delivery of services and the organization's advocacy work.

Impact

The IWA has had a significant impact on the lives of people with physical disabilities in Ireland. Through its services and advocacy efforts, the organization has helped to improve accessibility, promote independent living, and raise awareness about disability issues.

See Also

• Disability in Ireland
• National Disability Authority
• Independent Living Movement