We provide support to children and young people with complex needs and their families. We aim to offer support which is family-centred. Family-centred services:
- Treat families with dignity and respect.
- Provide families information that allows them to make informed decisions and choices.
- Include active family involvement in identifying and accessing resources and supports.
- Are responsive and flexible to family requests and desires. (Dunst, 2016)
We provide support across a range of settings depending on family priorities. This can include settings like our centre, family homes, community locations and children’s pre-schools or schools.
Our service is interdisciplinary meaning that team members from different professions work together with children/ young people and their families on common goals.
Who is eligible for services?
Children and young people who:
1. Are aged from birth to eighteen and
2. Are living in CHN 8 and
3. Have “complex needs” and
4. Would benefit from the support of a team to reach their potential
The CHN 8 catchment area includes Thomond, Ballananty, Kings Island, Westbury and some surrounding areas.
“Complex needs” are when a child has significant difficulties in learning or doing every day activities when compared to other children and young people their age.
Children who are at risk of developing a disability due to e.g. a diagnosed condition associated with complex needs are eligible for referral to the team.
You can find more detailed information at www.mwcds.ie.
How do I get a referral?
Referrals can be made through your GP, paediatrician or public health nurse. A referral can also be made through a primary care team therapist or through another service such as Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHs). You can download a copy of the referral form at mwcds.ie
Mid-West Family Support and Respite Services
We have provided family support and respite services to children with disabilities in the mid-west since 1997. We currently provide services to over 500 children with intellectual, physical & sensory and autism spectrum disabilities in the mid-west. We have developed the service with the assistance of the HSE West and it is provided free of charge.
Assistance given in a variety of settings in accordance with the agreement of HSE West and available resources. These include in-home, community based or group activities. We also provide residential respite breaks in both Nenagh and Ennis.
Who is eligible for this service?
Children with autism, and intellectual disability or a physical and sensory disability.
How do I get a referral?
You can get a referral through your Early Intervention Team, through Public Health Nurse, Medical Practioner or self referral. Please contact us for more information.