In this Disability Matters episode, John Comiskey welcomed two special guests from Walk Ireland: Vanessa Martin, Human Rights and Participation Practice Developer (HRPPD), and Brendan Heade, actor and long-time participant in Walk’s inclusive community programmes.
Founded in 1967, Walk Ireland is an organisation committed to empowering people with intellectual disabilities to live self-determined lives in their communities. The focus, as Vanessa explained, is rooted in dignity, respect, allyship, and practical action guided by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
“My role is to support peer-led advocacy groups, helping individuals learn about their rights and express them,” said Vanessa. “We support access to employment, housing, healthcare, voting rights, and education. We want people to be empowered to build their lives and relationships on their terms.”
Walk Ireland offers structured support programmes like the Walk PURE programme and a Pfizer internship initiative, designed to help individuals gain skills, training, and paid work experience. Brendan Heade is a shining example of the impact such programmes can have.
“I joined Walk in 2017 and it’s been an amazing journey,” said Brendan. “I’m now an actor. I’ve performed in shows at the Sean O’Casey Community Centre, the Civic Theatre, and even helped organise a movie quiz fundraiser for Ukraine. Walk gave me the drive to go for my dreams.”
Brendan is currently enrolled in Liberties College’s performing arts programme and recently starred in a five-night run of The Witches of Eastwick. His natural stage presence and talent for voice acting, including impersonations of cartoon characters like Donald Duck and Stitch, make him a memorable advocate for inclusion through creativity.
Beyond employment and education, Walk Ireland also fosters community through public events. Such as Second Chance Dance: Inspired by a young woman who was excluded from her school formal, this inclusive event welcomes anyone who has ever felt marginalised. Supported by organisations like ICCL and EY, it returns this year on 13 September at Street 66 in Dublin.
“All our best work is led by people with lived experience,” said Vanessa. “They are the experts. We just follow their lead.”
Walk Ireland’s model is about building independence and community. “Ultimately, we want to work ourselves out of a job,” Vanessa noted. “We empower, support, and then step back when people are ready.”
Learn more: 🌐 www.walk.ie