Supports and Services
Having the right support is essential for successful independent living. If you need Support with day-to-day tasks, such as personal care or household chores, there are services available through the HSE. Or, if you can afford it, you can hire a personal assistant and pay them directly yourself.
There are financial supports available for disabled people and carers. You can find out more on Citizens Information about Disability and illness payments and about Carers’ payments.
Inclusion Ireland have an overview of supports on their Income and Supports page.
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HSE Supports
The HSE provides and funds a broad range of health and social care services across Ireland. Some services are provided directly by the HSE and many other support services are provided by voluntary organisations, which are funded by the HSE.
Specialist services for Disabled people and their carers can include health and social care services as well as:
- specialist assessment
- rehabilitation
- community care
- residential care
- respite
- home care and day-care.
For more information on Specialist Disability Services please see – Disability Services – HSE.ie
To find disability services near you see the disability services that are in your county.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be entitled to State-funded homecare services or assisted living. Through these services, carers or personal assistants come to your home each day or week for a set number of hours allocated by the HSE. Carers support you with your individual needs. For example, helping with personal care, household chores, supporting you during work or study, playing sports, or taking part in your hobbies or social activities.
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How to access supports
If you are already linked in with a disability service provider and you need extra supports to move to independent living, you should talk to them directly. They can help you apply for the supports you need.
If you require social housing, they can help you apply to your local authority. For more information about the social housing application process visit Your Application – Home and Supports Hub.
If you’re not already in a disability service provider, you can contact your GP or Primary Care Team. They can help link you in with disability services. For information about GPs and Primary Care Teams see Health Supports – Home and Supports Hub.
Disabled people are entitled to general health services which are available through your Primary Care Team. For more information on Public Care Teams Health Support see our Health Support page.
With housing and other social provisions, a Primary Care Team Social Worker may be able to support you, act as an advocate and direct you to the services you may require.
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Assessment of Need for Children
If you have a child with a disability, who is not already linked in with a service, you can apply for an Assessment of Need.