“People with disabilities should be supported to live the life of their choosing — with dignity, respect and inclusion.”
On Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Vanessa Martin, Human Rights and Participation Practice Developer with WALK, and Shelley, a participant in the organisation’s programmes and a passionate self-advocate.
Their conversation explored how people with intellectual disabilities can be supported to live meaningful lives in their communities — through self-advocacy, employment opportunities, independent living and strong local connections.
Supporting People to Live the Life They Choose
Founded in 1967, WALK began when a small group of parents and friends came together because they believed more could be done to support people with intellectual disabilities.
Today, the organisation provides a wide range of supports including:
▪️ Day services
▪️ Supported living
▪️ Employment and internship programmes
▪️ Community participation initiatives
▪️ Self-advocacy and leadership programmes
The focus of WALK’s work is simple but powerful: supporting each person to define what a “good life” means for them.
For some people, that might involve employment. For others, it could mean joining a community group, pursuing education, building friendships or developing new skills.
“It’s really individual,” Vanessa explains. “We start by asking the person about their interests, their strengths and what they want their life to look like. Then we support them to connect with opportunities in their community.”
Learning to Speak Up
A key part of Vanessa’s role focuses on human rights and participation — helping people understand their rights and feel confident using their voice.
Much of this work centres around the WALK Self-Advocacy Group, created in 2024.
Through this initiative, people with intellectual disabilities learn about the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and develop the skills to advocate for themselves and others.
“Before people can speak up for their rights,” Vanessa says, “they need to know that they have those rights in the first place.”
The group also practices public speaking, discussions and presentations — sometimes with the help of creative tools like drama workshops.
The goal is to ensure that people with intellectual disabilities are not spoken for, but are empowered to speak for themselves.
Shelley’s Journey to Independence
For Shelley, becoming involved with WALK was life-changing.
She first joined the organisation’s day service after being introduced by a mental health nurse. At first, she admits she felt nervous, but soon began participating in activities such as:
▪️ Cooking courses
▪️ Gym sessions
▪️ Workshops and social activities
Over time, she became involved in the Self-Advocacy Group, where she developed the confidence to speak publicly about issues affecting people with disabilities.
One of her most important projects focused on housing rights.
Shelley spent six years on a housing list before finally securing her own apartment — an achievement she proudly describes as a turning point.
“It’s about speaking up for yourself,” she says. “About living in your community and being near your family and friends.”
Her advocacy even brought her face-to-face with Ireland’s Minister for Housing, where she shared her experiences and explained the importance of accessible housing.
Building Connections Through Community
Shelley is now part of WALK’s Networks Programme, which focuses on helping people connect with activities and relationships in their local communities.
Rather than creating separate spaces only for people with disabilities, the programme encourages participation in everyday community life — from fitness classes to choirs and social groups.
Shelley herself is involved in several local activities and is helping to develop ideas for new opportunities in her area.
“We’re brainstorming things like fitness classes and job opportunities,” she says.
The goal is simple: inclusion through real community participation.
Work, Skills and New Opportunities
WALK also supports individuals through internships and work placements, partnering with organisations such as hospitals and major companies to create real employment opportunities.
For many participants, these experiences provide an important step toward independence and confidence.
Workshops on practical life skills — including budgeting, banking and managing finances — are also part of the support available.
These are essential skills for people who are moving toward independent living.
Stories That Inspire Change
One of the highlights of the year is the WALK Self-Advocacy Conference, where participants share their experiences, projects and ideas for improving accessibility and inclusion.
The conference brings together self-advocates, policymakers, community organisations and service providers.
Importantly, the focus is not only on challenges — but also on solutions.
“It’s not about complaining,” Vanessa explains. “It’s about identifying barriers and then proposing ideas for how things can be improved.”
Topics have included housing, accessible public transport, education, employment and mental health.
For many participants, speaking at the conference is a powerful moment of confidence and empowerment.
Living a Full Life
Despite her busy schedule — balancing advocacy, community activities and advisory roles — Shelley still finds time to enjoy life.
She loves attending concerts, going out with friends and exploring new experiences.
“I’m a busy woman,” she says with a laugh.
And that, ultimately, reflects the central message of the conversation: people with disabilities want the same opportunities as everyone else — to work, participate, build relationships and enjoy life.
With the right supports and the freedom to make their own choices, that vision becomes possible.
Read more: Empowering Lives Through Inclusion: Walk Ireland on Advocacy, Employment and the Arts
This interview aired on Disability Matters on 92.5 Phoenix FM, a programme produced by Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL).
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