This article is from page 63 of the 2008-05-13 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 63 JPG
AN independent advocacy service for people with intellectual disabili- ties has been launched in Clare.
The Citizens Information Centre in Clare has appointed Greg Duff to the post, which is geared towards reach- ing out to those with intellectual dis- ALOU LW Coe
Mr Duff previously held the post as advocacy resource officer with the Citizens Information Service in Limerick and Tipperary and will slot into this new post.
“This post is geared towards peo- ple with intellectual disabilities who have issues. Like every person in society, they should be allowed to ac hieve their full potential. People want independent living,” he said.
“Previously I was building the ca- pacity of advocacy into companies by supporting the staff and volun- teers. Now I will be doing the advo-
cacy myself,” he added.
In his new post, Mr Duff – who lives in Shannon and is a member of the local town council – will be working one-on-one with those with intellectual disabilities.
“People with intellectual disabili- ties just want the same opportunities as everybody else,’ he added.
“We need to identify if there are gaps where we can compliment what is there,’ said Mr Duff.
He will be based in Ennis, but will build up contacts throughout the county.
The Manger of the Citizens Infor- mation Centre in the county, Paul Woulfe said the new post will ensure everybody has a voice.
“This is a specialist service, mak- ing sure their interests are put first and foremost,’ said Mr Woulfe.
“Initially he will work with clients from the Brothers of Charity,’ added Mr Woulfe.