Specialised Non-Profits
Specialized NGOS working for Persons with disabilities in Ireland
Below is a curated list of notable non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and disability rights bodies active in Ireland. By clicking the links below, you will leave the Towards Work website. Towards Work is not responsible for the content of external websites.
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AHEAD
Focuses on access to and full participation of people with disabilities in higher education and employment.
AsIAm
AsIAm is Ireland’s Autism charity. They provide evidence-based advice, resources, and guidance that the community can trust. Alongside this, we endeavour to make Irish society a more inclusive and accepting place, where Autistic people have the same chance.
Cheshire Ireland
The largest provider of supported accommodation in Ireland for people with physical and neurological conditions who have high support needs.
Chime
Ireland’s national charity for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people. Chime has a role in breaking down barriers to inclusion and self-determination, for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people. We deliver on our strategic goals through our core services, which include Specialist Services, Technology and Advice and Information Services. In addition, we drive awareness of key issues through our campaigns and advocacy work.
DESSA
Disability Equality Specialist Support Agency – Works to support full and equal participation by disabled people in Irish society through advocacy, training and rights-based support.
Disability Federation of Ireland
Umbrella body for voluntary disability organisations, promoting equality, inclusion and community services.
Disabled Women Ireland (DWI)
Led by disabled women and gender-diverse people, this organisation focuses on the gendered experiences of disability and intersectional advocacy.
Down Syndrome Ireland
With a National Office and 25 branches nationwide, Down Syndrome Ireland provides all- through life supports to people with Down syndrome and their families across Ireland. DSI works across health, speech and language, early years development, education, and adult education and independence, enhancing the lives of thousands of children and adults with Down syndrome nationwide.
DPO Network
An alliance of Disabled Persons’ Organisations (DPOs) advancing implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Ireland.
Enable Ireland
Provides services and supports to children and adults with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities and works to promote inclusion.
Inclusion Ireland
National advocacy organisation focused on the inclusion and rights of people with intellectual disabilities and their families.
Independent Living Movement Ireland ILMI
A disabled persons’ organisation promoting independent living, rights and participation in society.
Independent People with Disabilities (IPWD)
A grassroots cross-disability advocacy group in Westmeath, Longford and Roscommon, working on equality in education, employment and rights.
Invisible Disability Ireland
National non-profit focusing on awareness, inclusion and support for people with less visible or “hidden” disabilities.
Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association
The Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA, CHY 8510) is the only organisation of its kind in the country. We are dedicated to working on behalf of people living with MND and their families and carers. Our key services include home visits by our 7 MND nurses, financial assistance towards home help and the supply of specialised equipment on loan. We also fund and promote research into the causes and treatments of MND.
Irish Wheelchair Association
Charity supporting people with physical disabilities through advocacy, direct services and community engagement.
National Advocacy Service (NAS) for People with Disabilities:
Provides a free, confidential, and independent advocacy service for adults with disabilities. They help individuals express their opinions and ensure their voices are heard in decisions affecting their lives.
National Disability Authority (NDA)
The independent statutory body providing evidence- based advice to the Government on disability policy and practice.
National Learning Network
Provides vocational training and specialist support to help people with disabilities enter the workforce through the rehab group.
National Platform of Self Advocates
an organisation run by and for people with intellectual disabilities to amplify self-advocacy and representation.
Polio Survivors Ireland
An organisation in Ireland providing practical support (and a listening ear) to people who had polio as babies or young children.
Rehab Group
Provides disability services including rehabilitation, training, employment supports and community services across Ireland.
Special Olympics Ireland
A sports organisation for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
St. Michael’s House
St. Michael’s House provides a comprehensive range of services and supports to men, women, and children with disabilities and their families in 170 locations in the greater Dublin Area. It supports c. 2,300 people, and this has an impact on thousands of family members. St. Michael’s House is a company funded by the Health Service Executive (HSE), TUSLA and the Department of Education and Skills. (Figures from 1st August 2022)
Vision Ireland
A not-for-profit organisation for individuals with sight loss. Vision Ireland’s mission is to help people who are blind or vision-impaired overcome barriers that prevent them from being independent and participating in society.