Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland

Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland was established as The Dyspraxia Association of Ireland in 1995 by a group of parents and family members of children with Dyspraxia/DCD. The organisation now operates under the name, "Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland" delivering a range of supports and services to young people and adults with dyspraxia/DCD and their families and supporters.

We also work with a broad range of professionals who support people with dyspraxia/DCD (e.g., teachers, psychologists, occupational therapists, mental health professionals, and employers. We provide a wide range of services nationally and strive to raise greater community awareness of the condition and improved diagnostic services for people with dyspraxia/DCD.

Member Q&A

What is your goal? 

Dyspraxia/DCD is Irelands national charity for adults and children with Dyspraxia/DCD (Developmental Coordination Disorder) and their families. Formed in 1995 our Vision is for a society where people with Dyspraxia/DCD are recognised, understood and valued in the community. 

How have you been working towards it? 

We work to:  Raise awareness and understanding of Dyspraxia/DCD in Ireland. Advocate to ensure adequate resources are available to support the needs of people with Dyspraxia/DCD.  Partner with education, training, and employment services to provide further education and employment opportunities.  Lobby for improved diagnostic and intervention services for children and adults. Organise events and activities for people with Dyspraxia/DCD and their families.   

How has being a member of The Wheel helped? 

We have benefited from networking, training opportunities and representation. Being a member of the Wheel has provided a range of opportunities that we would not have been able to avail of otherwise. 

How can people support you? 

Support us by helping to raise awareness of our organisation and Dyspraxia/DCD. Consider volunteering your time, fundraising, becoming a member or entering in to a partnership with us as we develop innovative services to meet the needs of our community. 

Do you have any success stories to share? 

The impact of COVID-19 on children with Dyspraxia has been extremely severe. The lack of therapy services and social activities has had a huge impact. We have partnered with the University of Limerick Departments of Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Music Therapy to provide online programmes to children and teenagers with Dyspraxia to counteract the impact of Covid-19 on their lives. There have been a number of other side benefits from this partnership including a research proposal looking at the sustainability of the model into the future. 

Where can people find you on social media? 

Website: www.dyspraxia.ie   

Facebook: DyspraxiaIRL   

Twitter: @dyspraxiaIRL   

LinkedIn: Dyspaxia DCD Ireland