Press release
Minister for Disabilities announces full resumption of disability day services from 22 October
From Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
Minister of State with responsibility for Disability, Anne Rabbitte TD, today announced that adult day services for people with disabilities will return to full capacity by 22 October, in line with our COVID 19 response ‘Reframing the Challenge’ roadmap for the lifting of restrictions.
Day service providers have been requested to develop their individual day service location roadmaps to increase the level of day service provision to 100% restoration for each day service user by 22 October. This builds on the average quantum of service provided from last September at 40% (equivalent to 2 days a week) which rose to 60% from January 2021.
Minister Rabbitte said:
"I am very pleased to announce that HSE funded disability day services will fully resume by 22 October. We are able to take these steps because our overall strategy is working and it is now safe for day services to increase capacity. I know how much this means to every person who can now look forward to enjoying normal times with friends and spending time doing what they enjoy again. I want to thank families and carers for the support they have given their loved ones throughout this very difficult period.
"I also wish to thank the staff of day service providers for their dedication and commitment in providing support to people with disabilities. There are many unsung heroes in disability services, and I want to assure them that I have seen the huge efforts made to ensure that life has been as normal as possible for some of the most vulnerable in our society."
Infection prevention and control measures that have been introduced to support the safe delivery of adult disability day services since the onset of COVID 19 will remain in place after 22 October. These arrangements include risk assessments, enhanced environmental hygiene, and pod like arrangements in day service locations. Mask wearing will remain in place in day services, except for those who are exempt from wearing a face covering.