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€3.6 million in innovation grants awarded to disability and mental health projects
Finbarr Flood, Chairperson of the Genio Trust, has called for faster action in moving people with disabilities and mental health difficulties from institutions to the community.
“Thousands of people continue to receive traditional services, which can isolate and segregate them from society. However, there are examples of very positive and innovative work being carried out around the country supporting people to live the life that they choose as included members of their communities. It is our responsibility as a society to ensure that every individual has the same opportunity.”
The statement was made by Mr. Flood at the official announcement (21st October 2010) by Minister John Moloney T.D., Minister of State with responsibility for Equality, Disability and Mental Health, of 50 grants from the Genio Trust totaling more than €3.6 million awarded to individually tailored services for people with disabilities and mental health difficulties across Ireland.
In a unique development, the new Genio Trust has combined Government Health Innovation funding with an investment by Chuck Feeney’s Foundation – The Atlantic Philanthropies - to back innovative projects across the country. This follows a commitment of funding by Minister Moloney to support people with disabilities and mental health difficulties to live full lives in the community.
Pat McLoughlin, Chairperson of the Local Government Efficiency Review Group, CEO of the Irish Payment Services Organisation and Chairperson of Genio emphasised,
“By moving to a more flexible system of resource allocation, which offers a better match between needs and services, individuals gain greater independence and resources can be used to best effect in the interests of those requiring support.”
As a result of grants awarded by the Genio Trust already this year, over 100 people will be supported to become more independent in the community where they belong, some of whom will be moving from institutions. These include individuals with mild to significant support needs. Each individual will receive individually tailored supports, specific to their requirements.
Commenting on the announcement of the grants, Minister Moloney said,
“Ireland has a vision for people with disabilities and mental health difficulties to live as included and valued members of society; as citizens with a right to choice; and as contributing members of their communities. This is reflected in our national policy and the 50 grants announced today have been awarded to initiatives who share this vision.”
These initiatives are highlighting ways to achieve better value for money, by basing resources on individuals’ needs rather than a standardised ‘one size fits all’ approach. Martin Rogan, HSE Assistant National Director of Mental Health Services commented,
“The Genio Trust prioritises support for innovative, practical initiatives that represent effective use of scarce resources. The Trust offers a valuable opportunity for the public, private and social sectors to collaborate strategically to achieve sustainable improvements.”
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