Ability West Launches New Day and Residential Services in Galway

UPDATE: A new era for disability services has officially launched as Ability West unveils its state-of-the-art Day and Residential Services at Garraí na Sailí, Letteragh Road, Galway. The opening, marked by an open day featuring Finlay Bealham, a star rugby player and newly appointed Ambassador for Ability West, signifies a monumental step forward in supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.

The facilities, which include a 3,500 sq. ft. Day Service Centre designed for up to 25 individuals and a fully accessible residential bungalow for four individuals needing enhanced support, reflect a modern and inclusive approach to disability care. This significant development arises from a partnership with Burkeway Homes and will serve as a beacon of hope for many families across Galway.

At the heart of this initiative is the Living My Life project, a collaboration between Ability West and the Brothers of Charity, aimed at empowering adults with intellectual disabilities to achieve greater independence. The project seeks to prevent emergency situations by providing tailored support and services that align with individual needs.

“This is a hugely welcome development – beautifully planned and built to the highest standards,” stated Julie Silke Daly, Chief Executive of Ability West. She highlighted the importance of continued investment in services to meet the growing demand, which has risen sharply due to an increase in diagnoses of autism and intellectual disabilities.

The official opening ceremony featured Minister for Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth, Norma Foley, who emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding disability services with a record budget of €3.8 billion secured for Budget 2026. Minister Foley stated,

“I am very much aware of the importance of these services for the families of both children and adults with disabilities and the positive impact it can have on people’s lives.”

Over 543 individuals are currently supported by Ability West across seventy centres in Galway, with a dedicated workforce of over 630 employees. However, the organization faces challenges, including severe staffing shortages that impact service quality. Ms. Silke Daly noted the urgent need for committed professionals in the sector as the demand for services continues to grow, particularly as more families seek support for aging caregivers unable to provide 24/7 care.

Attendees at the open day were thrilled to meet Finlay Bealham, who engaged with families and participated in fun activities with service users. Bealham expressed his enthusiasm, stating,

“It’s an absolute honour to be announced as a Brand Ambassador for Ability West. I can’t wait to get involved and support the amazing work that Ability West does over the next number of years.”

As Ability West steps into this new chapter, the community watches closely to see how these developments will shape the future of disability services in Galway. The organization’s commitment to innovation and inclusion stands as a testament to the progress being made in creating a more supportive environment for individuals with disabilities.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and its impact on the community.