“Unfortunately, anyone can find themselves living with a disability — it can happen in an instant.”
That’s how Ciara Heffernan from Rehab Ireland begins her conversation with host John Comiskey on Disability Matters. It’s a reminder that the organisation’s work is not just for “someone else” — it could be for you, a friend, or a family member at any stage of life.
Ciara recalls one example: “We’ve worked for years with a young woman who had a busy full-time job. In her spare time, she loved horse riding. One day she had a fall, suffered an acquired brain injury, and her life changed overnight. We supported her to retrain and upskill over the next few years. She regained her confidence, rebuilt her independence, and found a new path forward. It’s stories like hers that show just how quickly life can turn — and how important the right support is.”
75 Years: From One Workshop to a National Network
“We started in 1947 with a small group of women who’d survived tuberculosis,” Ciara explains.
At the time, TB survivors were often shunned by society and excluded from work. Rehab’s founders created a supported employment workshop for 11 women on Pleasant Street in Dublin — a move that helped redefine how illness and disability were viewed in Ireland.
Seventy-five years later, Rehab has grown into a nationwide organisation with three main divisions:
- Rehab Enterprises – Supported employment and social enterprise projects, including recycling initiatives.
- Rehab Care – Health and social care services like day centres, resource hubs, and supported living.
- National Learning Network (NLN) – Free, tailored training for people with disabilities or mental health challenges.
Who They Work With
“Our services are for people with all kinds of disabilities — physical, intellectual, sensory, or acquired later in life,” Ciara says.
That includes people living with autism, dyslexia, brain injuries, or mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Rehab also supports families, recognising that disability affects whole networks of relationships.
Advocacy in Action
Accessible transport is a key campaign.
“We’ve lobbied for better public transport, especially for people who can’t drive and can’t afford constant taxi fares,” Ciara notes.
One project promotes the Sunflower Lanyard, a discreet way to signal a hidden disability to staff in public spaces. Another focuses on making education more accessible so people can pursue learning without barriers or funding gaps.
Rehab Care: Independence and Connection
Rehab Care operates over 200 centres across Ireland, offering programmes that range from community activities to supported accommodation.
“It’s about helping people live as independently as possible, stay connected to their communities, and do things that make life meaningful,” Ciara says.
For some, that might mean learning new skills in a resource centre; for others, it could be home support that enables them to stay out of institutional care.
Work Ready: Breaking Down Employment Barriers
“Employment changes everything — financial independence, confidence, purpose.”
Rehab’s Work Ready programme places people with disabilities into short-term roles with supportive employers. Staff provide on-the-job assistance, building skills and confidence until participants are ready to move into permanent roles.
The challenge? Stigma and lack of awareness among employers. “Once adjustments are made — often minor ones — people thrive,” Ciara says.
Promisys: Recycling with Purpose
Through Promisys, Rehab takes unwanted IT and office equipment from businesses, wipes all data securely, refurbishes devices, and either donates or sells them at low cost. Confidential paper shredding and recycling are also part of the operation.
“It’s environmental impact and employment for people with disabilities in one,” Ciara says.
How to Get Involved
If you have a disability and want to explore training, employment, or volunteering, email info@rehab.ie. Rehab also welcomes donations to fund accessible spaces, technology, and new projects — including a supportive education college opening in Ballyfermot.
In October, the organisation will host Cuppa for Rehab, a nationwide open day inviting the public to meet staff, tour facilities, and see the work first-hand.
A Final Word
Ciara’s closing message is simple:
“We work with about 12,000 people every year, but there are many more who could benefit from our support. Whether you’re looking for training, care, or just advice, reach out — we’ll help you find the right path.”
🔗 Learn more: rehab.ie
Disability Matters airs every Thursday at 4PM on Phoenix 92.5FM, with repeats on Monday at 3PM and Tuesday at 7AM & 3PM. Podcast available after each show on Mixcloud and on bcil.ie/radio.