The Carndonagh Day Care Centre services for Older Persons in Inishowen, Co Donegal has been officially reopened after a lengthy campaign which followed its closure during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The service closed in March 2020 due to Covid restrictions at Carndonagh Community Hospital. A review three years ago determined the hospital was no longer suitable to provide day care services.
Over the past two years, services were temporarily moved to Glengad while a suitable premises was sought in Carndonagh.
The centre for older people has now been relocated to the Spraoi agus Spórt facility in Carndonagh and the Glengad centre also remains operational.
The day service operates two days a week at present. Activities were agreed with service users based on the "What Matters to Me" document, which allowed attendees to share their interests and needs with care staff to ensure that the activities were scheduled around their preferences.
Today's official opening was attended by service users and their families, local community, Restoration Carndonagh Day Care services committee, HSE Staff and several public representatives.
Chairperson for the Restoration Carndonagh Day Care services committee Tony Doherty said they were thrilled to mark the occasion as the centre provides a much needed vital service in the community.
"It is at the heart of the wellbeing of our community and plays a critical role in supporting families and individuals in need of specialised care.
"It provides a welcoming environment where those attending can receive the high-quality, compassionate services and support that they need."
Head of Service for Older Persons, HSE Community Services in the north west, Frank Morrison said they are delighted to have had the opportunity to work closely with the Restoration Carndonagh Day Care Services Committee in re-establishing the day service in Carndonagh.
