Spokeout
April 2026

Hello readers, welcome to the April edition of Spoke Out.

The world feels a little fragile at the moment, and many of us are experiencing that uncertainty. Unfortunately, ongoing events in the Middle East mean the fuel crisis is unlikely to ease anytime soon, adding to people’s concerns. Our Advocacy team continues to push for a Cost of Disability payment to help alleviate some of this financial burden.

We could all use a lift right now, and for those taking part in IWA’s second annual Fitness Inclusion Games, preparing for the big event at the Sport Ireland Campus on Thursday, May 7th, has provided a welcome distraction. As our Spotlight article shows, it’s something participants are truly enjoying, while also benefiting their health and overall well-being.

We’re also excited to introduce a new Members’ Consultative Forum, which will take place alongside our Annual General Meeting in May.

This edition is packed with a variety of engaging articles—from DIY wheelchair repairs to the dedicated volunteers making a difference at our Ardee Charity Shop, as well as IWA’s campaign to ensure every local authority has a full-time Access Officer, and much more.

In times of uncertainty, it matters more than ever that we show kindness—to ourselves and to one another—and consciously focus on what’s going well. It’s really encouraging to see so many positive things happening in IWA, and we hope you enjoy reading about them.

Marie

 

Print this edition
Spotlight on:
Fitness Inclusion Games
DIY Wheelchair Repairs
Also inside:
Exciting new development at our AGM, campaign for Access Officers in every local authority, plus lots more

In this issue:

  • Spotlight on: the second annual Fitness Inclusion Games
    Over 150 IWA members to participate in the inclusive event
  • Advocacy
    “It Would Just Help Us Live”: Why the Cost of Disability Can’t Be Ignored
  • Fundraising
    Become a Regular Monthly Giver and Change Lives Every Month
  • Sport
    Paralympics Ireland celebrate the Para Athletes who paved the way for today’s Paralympians
  • Volunteers
    Volunteers at IWA's Charity Shop in Ardee making a difference
  • DIY Wheelchair Repair Project
    Empowering wheelchair users to maintain their own wheelchairs
  • Finding Ways to Access Arts & Culture
    Arts & Disability Ireland works with venues, artists and audiences to make theatre, art, music and dance more inclusive.
  • Members’ Consultative Forum
    New Members’ Consultative Forum Launching at This Year’s AGM
  • Access- It’s No Joke
    A funny video campaign with a serious side and our members have been joining in.
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