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In This Issue:
Real Talk
Wexford DPO
VOICE in Tipp
Real Talk: Disabled People, By Disabled People
Real change starts with real conversations. Ever wondered what peer mentoring really means? How activism connects to your daily life? Why getting the right support is still so difficult? Join ILMI for a powerful series of discussions led by disabled people, for disabled people. No jargon, no fluff, just practical, honest conversations about what matters.
These sessions are about more than just talk. They are about learning from each other, sharing experiences, and finding new ways to push for the change we need. Whether you are new to activism or have been fighting for disability rights for years, this space is for you.
Session 1: Peer Power – What’s In It for Me?
Tuesday 4th March 12 noon via Zoom
Peer mentoring can sound abstract, but at its core, it is about disabled people supporting each other. Learn how connecting with peers can offer real, practical benefits in your life.
Session 2: Smashing Barriers – Why Is It So Hard to Get Support?
Tuesday 11th March 12 noon via Zoom
From personal assistance to healthcare and education, disabled people face constant barriers. This session is about identifying those barriers and discussing how we can challenge them together.
Session 3: Activism – A Buzzword or Real Power?
Tuesday 18th March 12 noon via Zoom
Activism is often misunderstood. It is not just protests or politics; it is about disabled people using their collective power to drive real change. This session explores what activism looks like and how it can be part of your life.
Session 4: Keeping the Fire Lit – How Do We Keep Going?
Tuesday 25th March 12 noon via Zoom
Activism can be exhausting. Fighting for our rights takes time and energy. This session focuses on how we can stay motivated, support each other, and keep going without burning out.
Session 5: Your Local DPO – Why It Matters & How to Get Involved
Tuesday 1st April 12 noon via Zoom
Disabled Persons’ Organisations (DPOs) are at the heart of rights-based change. This session will break down what DPOs do, why they matter, and how you can be part of strengthening the collective voice of disabled people.
Register now by emailing info@ilmi.ie. Sign up for all five sessions and attend the ones that matter most to you. These conversations are about disabled people supporting each other, taking action, and making real change happen.
Wexford DPO
On Wednesday, 19 February, Wexford DPO had an in person workshop and their AGM!
ILMI’s Peter Kearns facilitated the workshop and the group explored the term ‘disability’. The discussion was very insightful and engaging.
Then, they held their first AGM, which involved finalising their constitution. It was a fantastic meeting! Wexford DPO will be holding a zoom meeting shortly to elect Officers and are really looking forward to the next stage of the process!
Paula would like to sincerely thank all participants for their continued engagement and work with Wexford DPO.
If any disabled people based in Wexford over 18 would like to get involved, new members are welcome! Email Paula at paulasoraghan@ilmi.ie or call 087 163 0433.
VOICE in Tipp
On Tuesday, 18 February Nicola Meacle, ILMI VOICE Community Development Worker had the opportunity to speak at the South Tipperary Disability Groups Forum. She discussed the VOICE project and what local DPOs can achieve when disabled people come together. They benefit from peer mentoring and capacity building training that will equip them with the skills to develop strategies that address the obstacles they encounter which prevent them from fully participating in their community.
The Forum showcased the collaborative approach in South Tipperary as demonstrated by the broad range of stakeholders involved in the forum. Nicola would like to thank Anne Bradshaw and the Chairperson Josephine Carroll for the invitation to attend the meeting. If you are a disabled person in Tipperary and would like to get involved in the VOICE project, please email Nicola at nicolameacle@ilmi.ie or phone her on 087 7189237. |
