ABOUT US

 History

During the early eighties unmet needs of young adults with physical and / or sensory disabilities were identified. The Cork Spastic Clinic (now Enable Ireland) provided services to people up to 18 years of age. However, there were virtually no services for adults who were unable to work due to their disability. In addition students with physical disabilities wishing to attend UCC found it extremely difficult to find suitable accommodation that met their needs.

A committee came together under the chairmanship of Sheila Goldberg who was the driving force in establishing Abode. The committee included representatives from the Cork Spastic Clinic, Irish Wheelchair Association, Southern Health Board and Spina Bifida Association. Fund raising took place with particular support from the Garda.

The site which we occupy was donated by Cork City Council. Construction work was completed in 1984 but the building did not become operational until 1986 when there was sufficient revenue to fund day to day activities.

Until 1996 the Board of Directors was largely made up of representatives from the founding organisations. However, as Directors resigned they were replaced by people with no direct ties to other service providers. As a result Abode became an entirely independent, autonomous organisation.

In 2001 the Articles and Memorandum of Association of the company were altered to allow Doorway to Life become a registered voluntary housing association. This provides access to State grant aid for social housing.

Current Services

Day Activation

Respite Breaks

Short Term and Long Term Accommodation Services

Independent Living Programme

The Future

Abode has outgrown its current premises. Construction of a new purpose built service centre is now underway at a site adjacent to Skehard Road, Cork. The new building will assist provide a better service to current clients and allow for future expansion.

The new centre can be divided into two key elements –

Day Activation Services -

Training / craft room

Therapy / meeting rooms

Computer room

Pottery room

Training kitchen

Residential Accommodation -

Within the main building -

6 x one bedroom apartments

1 x two bedroom apartment

10 x ensuite bedrooms

Close to the main building -

1 x four bedroom bungalow

2 x two bedroom semi detached bungalows

It is the aim of Abode to continue to develop services in the future to meet the emerging needs of our clients with physical disabilities.