Many people with MS use personal assistants to help with aspects of daily life. The Disability Federation of Ireland is looking for feedback on a new policy they are helping to create. DFI are working with the HSE’s Universal Access Working Group looking at the role of personal assistants for people with disabilities in mainstream healthcare. A number of service users/patients have highlighted that there is inconsistent practice regarding the recognition of a personal assistant in supporting a person with a disability in mainstream health, particularly in acute hospital settings.
In order to provide clarity and governance on this issue, the group is currently looking to get a clearer picture on what is happening in current practice. They are particularly interested in:
- What is working?
- What isn’t working?
- What would improve existing practice?
- Particular areas of risk that we need to be aware of?
If you use the services of a personal assistant and would like to give your feedback contact Louise McCann in DFI.
Email: louisemccann@disability-federation.ie
Address: Disability Federation of Ireland, Fumbally Court, Fumbally Lane, Dublin 8