Healthy Strong Together free program for disabled people in Donegal launches – Donegal Daily

No Barriers Foundation in Letterkenny is inviting people to apply for the new Healthy Strong Together Programme, a free 10-week rehabilitation and physical activity program designed specifically for people with a neurological condition.

Twenty-five people with a confirmed neurological diagnosis, such as spinal cord injury, stroke, brain injury, MS or another neurological condition, can participate in the unique program for free.

Designed by Donegal’s No Barriers Foundation and supported by Rethink Ireland, this program will take participants on a 10-week journey to feeling healthier and stronger. Start with an initial assessment to find out firsthand what you want and need and how you feel about your current circumstances.

Together with the highly qualified team, based at No Barriers at Mountain Top Letterkenny, you will set collaborative health goals and discuss how to proactively move towards achieving these goals throughout the programme. The program empowers people to feel confident and empowered in their health journey and participate in physical activity in the community.

Currently in Donegal, people with different levels of disability are unable to reach their full rehabilitation potential in the community. This results in greater social marginalization, as well as physical and mental comorbidities that increase readmission rates.

Johnny Loughrey, founder and CEO of No Barriers, commented: Many people with disabilities are unaware of how much they can actually do to stay fit, strong and healthy. Our program provides people with the everyday knowledge and skills they need to continue exercising beyond the program. Wherever your starting point is, we’ll meet you there and work with you to remove barriers to your health goals.

We are very grateful to Rethink Ireland and Minister Anne Rabbitte for their support and belief in the Foundation and the Programme.

There are no barriers funding has been secured to run this program Rethinking Ireland and the Department for Children, Equality, Disability, Inclusion and Youth

This unique and innovative 10-week program offers specialized neurological care, along with specialized exercise and physical activity services in an inclusive gym environment. Enables those discharged from acute care within the HSE following spinal cord injury, stroke, brain injury, MS or any other neurological condition to continue their rehabilitation in a socially inclusive community environment .

What does the program include?

The program will include a mix of:
Physiotherapy
Occupational Therapy
Exercise therapy (individual and small group)
Indoor and outdoor physical activities
Mindfulness classes
Modified yoga classes
Modified Pilates classes
Peer support groups
Educational sessions

After our initial assessment, we will plan your 10-week program. The program will be 3 weekly sessions and will include a mix of the elements mentioned above.

We offer a social outlet and hope to those who often feel isolated and socially marginalized. Your rehabilitation is as much about building confidence and self-esteem as it is about regaining physical strength and mobility.

How can I apply for the program?

You need:

1. Have a confirmed neurological diagnosis (examples are stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, MS, Parkinson’s disease).
2. Having previously been in contact with the HSE regarding the diagnosis

If you meet these two criteria, a telephone consultation is conducted to determine your suitability for the program.

Do I need a referral?

You can but it is not essential. People can be referred or self-referred by contacting us directly.

How do I get in touch?

You can call 0838855056 or send us an email at hello@nobarriers.ie

When it starts?

The program will start in the coming weeks and will run until September.

Healthy Strong Together free program for disabled people in Donegal is launched last modified: April 27, 2024 for Rachel McLaughlin

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