Jewel in the Crann

A charity that works with children and adults living with neuro physical disabilities has spent the past number of months delivering supports online.

The Crann Centre based in Classis, Ovens works with all age groups, including newborns, children, teens and adults, and their families.

Its services are focussed on, but not limited to, people who have spina bifida, hydrocephalus, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, childhood stroke and spinal cord injury.

Padraig Mallon, Chief Executive of the Crann Centre explains how the charity helps its clients and their families: “We recognise that people with a disability live in a family unit and that people within that family unit experience life differently. Our model of care delivers a holistic suite of services for the individual and their family supporting and empowering them to live their best lives.

“As people move through their life course, their needs and the needs of their family members change and evolve. Our services are organised into six key themes. This means that supports can be delivered for one aspect of a person’s life or holistically to support a broad range of needs,” said Padraig.

He added: “Over the past four months, we have been focussed on delivering services and supports via our online platform which have helped children, adults and families to deal with some of the issues arising from Covid-19 including leisure activities, psychological supports, physical activities and practical learning. We have had positive feedback that people found these activities enjoyable and beneficial.

“We are pleased to let people know that we are back at the Crann Centre and all preparations and adjustments are now in place ready to welcome you back.

In line with current guidelines we hope to welcome group gatherings from 21 September, all going well. In the meantime, we will continue to offer services online using Zoom.”