HSE Celebrates Inclusion Projects in Meath

People communicate and experience the world in a variety of different ways. As understanding of communication differences has increased in recent years, so has the number of individuals, schools and local groups working to create accessible and inclusive spaces. This enthusiasm for community action sparked the Gradam Ceannródaithe Cumarsáide (‘Pioneers in Communication Award’). This is a monthly award, presented by HSE Speech and Language Therapists in Meath to projects who are helping to make Meath more accessible.

Sports clubs are often considered the heart of a community, and it was wonderful to see so many sports clubs working towards inclusion. GAA clubs like Navan O’Mahony’s, Simonstown Gaels, and Duleek Bellewstown, rugby clubs like Navan RFC, and Taekwon-Do clubs like Ashbourne ITF were all worthy winners of this award. Speaking to the organisers, similar reasons for starting these teams came through. There was a desire to make the club a positive space for all its members, to provide a safe and fun environment for all, and to support their athletes to achieve their potential. Some groups like Navan O’Mahony’s Peil for All cater for adults with additional needs, which is incredibly important and unfortunately quite rare.

Social groups also featured heavily this year. The Neuro-Space in Kells came about because neurodivergent young adults identified a need for their own social space. They meet at the Kells Family Resource Centre and provide a non-pressurised space for people to share interests. Trimfinity is a social group in Trim for primary school aged children. They have a mix of free-play nights and structured activities like movie nights, yoga, arts and crafts, and more. They have fun summer outings like a trip to Butlers chocolate factory too. Special Hands Group provide activities and events for children and young adults with additional needs. They have organised pantomimes, swimming classes, cooking classes, Bodhrán playing, and more. They also arrange an overnight summer camp in Rockfield House.

While this award often goes to groups, it can also be presented to individuals. Mag Coogan is one such example. She provided basic life-saving training to children in the Dunboyne A-Team Arch Club. Mag delivered the training with compassion and in a way that the children could understand. This really shows how being communication-accessible can literally save lives.

If you know of a person or group in Meath working to promote communication inclusion, acceptance, and accessibility you can nominate them for this award in 2026 by contacting Meath Speech and Language Therapy on Facebook or Instagram (@meathslt), speaking to your local Speech and Language Therapist in Meath, or emailing swmeath.chn@hse.ie.