In a significant move to improve support for children with complex needs, the government has announced the expansion of an enhanced in-school therapy pilot program to an additional 10 special schools across Ireland.
Following the successful launch of the first phase of the pilot on August 9th, the Departments of Children, Education, and Health have collaborated to identify the next batch of schools to benefit from this initiative.
The pilot aims to provide effective and coordinated delivery of in-school therapy supports, ensuring the educational, health, and social needs of children are met through a collaborative approach involving various service providers.
The 10 schools selected for the second phase are located in Dublin, Cork, and Galway, and include Cheeverstown House, Saplings Special School, ABACAS Kilnamanagh, Holy Family School for the Deaf, St. Vincent’s, St. Michael’s House Special School, East Cork Community Special School, St. Killian’s School, Rosedale School, and St. Teresa’s Special School.
Minister O’Gorman, who oversees the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, expressed his enthusiasm for the expansion, stating, “Today’s announcement is a further positive step towards supporting children with complex needs and their families.”
The pilot’s Steering Group, comprising representatives from various government agencies and departments, will continue to meet weekly to ensure the efficient rollout of the program and effective communication between all stakeholders.
This integrated approach, involving the Departments of Children, Education, and Health, as well as the HSE and the National Council for Special Education, aims to enhance the support available to children with additional needs and their families, ultimately helping them reach their full potential.