Mental health recovery is about far more than treatment alone. It is about connection, purpose, community, and having a place where people feel supported and understood. In a recent edition of Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Edel and Isabella from Saol Clubhouse about the life-changing impact of the Clubhouse model and the role it plays in supporting people living with mental health challenges.
Saol Clubhouse, based in Finglas, is part of an international network of more than 500 Clubhouses worldwide. Operating under a shared set of internationally recognised standards, Clubhouses provide community-based mental health support focused on recovery, social inclusion, education, employment, and personal wellbeing.
Edel explained that the Clubhouse model offers members “a place to come, something meaningful to do, and a community to belong to.” Members and staff work side by side to run the service, creating a unique environment built on equality, participation, and mutual support.
For Isabella, who has been living with bipolar disorder since 2006, Saol Clubhouse has been a vital part of her recovery journey. Having first joined a Clubhouse in 2015, she described how the service helped her rebuild confidence, access education opportunities, develop new skills, and return to employment.
“The Clubhouse helped me find employment, prepare for interviews, and reconnect with my confidence,” Isabella explained. “It became like a family.”
Over the years, Isabella completed a Mental Health Peer Support course through DCU and now works in the Civil Service while continuing to maintain connections with the Clubhouse community. She credits the service with helping her stay well, avoid hospital admissions, and build meaningful friendships.
One of the key strengths of the Clubhouse model is its flexibility. Membership is voluntary and lifelong, allowing people to engage with the service as much or as little as they need throughout different stages of their lives.
The Clubhouse offers a wide range of activities including employment supports, education guidance, social outings, wellness programmes, community projects, gardening, fitness activities, advocacy training, and peer support opportunities. Members can participate in everything from newsletters and administration to allotment projects, wellbeing workshops, and community events.
Edel highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for people to reconnect with their communities and pursue their personal goals.
“Some people come to build social connections, others want support returning to education or employment. The Clubhouse adapts to each person’s needs.”
Employment support is a particularly important part of the service. Through Transitional Employment placements and partnerships with local employers, members gain valuable work experience, confidence, and practical skills that can help them move towards long-term employment opportunities.
The conversation also highlighted the importance of community-based supports in preventing isolation and promoting recovery. Rather than relying solely on medical interventions, services like Saol Clubhouse provide ongoing support, meaningful activities, and a sense of belonging that can make a significant difference in people’s lives.
Both Edel and Isabella stressed that recovery is possible and that no one should face mental health challenges alone.
As Isabella reflected during the interview:
“Recovery is possible. Mental health may be a lifelong journey, but there is help available, and there are people who understand.”
This inspiring conversation reminds us that community, connection, and hope remain powerful tools in supporting mental health and wellbeing.
For more information about Saol Clubhouse and the Clubhouse model, visit their social media channels or contact the service directly to arrange a visit and learn more about the supports available.
For more information visit: facebook
This interview aired on Disability Matters on 92.5 Phoenix FM, a programme produced by Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL).
Tune in to Disability Matters Thursdays at 4PM | Repeats: Mon 3AM, Tue 3AM & 7AM | Also available on Mixcloud and on bcil.ie/radio.
Compiled by Valentyna Hordiichuk