In this episode of Disability Matters, John Comiskey speaks with Donall Geoghegan, Director of Policy and Advocacy at The Wheel, about the vital role charities, community organisations, and social enterprises play in Irish society.
Dónall recently joined The Wheel as Director of Policy and Advocacy, bringing with him decades of experience across government, community development, youth work, and the voluntary sector. His career has included senior leadership roles with organisations such as Early Childhood Ireland, Greenpeace Europe, the National Youth Council of Ireland, and advisory work at the highest levels of government.
Representing more than 2,600 organisations across Ireland, The Wheel provides support, training, advocacy, and leadership to groups working in every corner of community life — from local Tidy Towns groups to national disability organisations and international aid agencies.
“We’re about strengthening communities and giving organisations a stronger voice,” Donall explains.
Supporting Organisations Across Ireland
The Wheel helps organisations of all sizes — from small volunteer-led groups to large national charities — by offering practical guidance, training, governance support, fundraising advice, and advocacy.
“If somebody sets up a charity tomorrow, we can help them understand how to register, build a board, raise funds, and develop quality services,” says Donall.
But The Wheel is about more than practical supports.
“The more organisations that come together, the stronger our collective voice becomes.”
Why the National Charity Summit Matters
A major focus of the interview is the upcoming National Charity Summit, organised by The Wheel and taking place at the Helix in DCU.
Now attracting more than 500 attendees annually, the summit brings together charity leaders, volunteers, policymakers, activists, and community organisations from across Ireland.
This year’s theme is:
“Community at the Heart of Our Democracy”
The summit explores how civil society organisations help strengthen democracy, support vulnerable communities, and create meaningful social change.
“We want people to learn from each other, connect with each other, and leave inspired,” Donall says.
Democracy, Civil Society and Community Voices
One of the keynote speakers is Seamus Boland, President of the European Economic and Social Committee — the first Irish person to hold the role.
According to Donall, one of the major themes emerging across Europe is the importance of protecting democracy and civil society.
“When democratic systems begin to weaken, one of the first things attacked is the media — and the second is civil society.”
The summit will examine how charities and community groups help give ordinary people a voice and strengthen local communities.
Funding Pressures and Future Challenges
Like many organisations across Ireland, charities are facing significant financial pressure due to inflation, rising demand for services, and increasing operational costs.
Donall acknowledges that funding remains one of the biggest concerns across the sector.
“Many organisations are being asked to do more with the same funding — or very small increases.”
The summit will also explore volunteering, leadership, community research, cross-border cooperation, and how organisations can adapt to changing times.
Building Hope Through Community
Former Minister Eamon Ryan is also set to speak about maintaining hope during periods of uncertainty and social change.
For Donall, the message behind the summit is ultimately simple:
“It’s about recognising the glue that holds society together.”
From local volunteers to national organisations, community action continues to shape Ireland every day — often quietly, but powerfully.
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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Compiled by Valentyna Hordiichuk