Activation unit

The activation unit recognises that each person with an intellectual disability possesses unique dignity and potential. As a result we are committed to the development of that potential in an atmosphere characterised by friendship, respect and creativity. The unit provides service users with a pre planned and structured day to suit the needs of each individual.

 Objectives;

-advocacy: speaking up for oneself, making choices and decisions

-community access: explore and access facilities in the community through day trips and social outings

-health/hygiene/grooming: improve awareness for the importance of personal presentation & personal hygiene

-fitness & leisure: developing hobbies & taking part in different activities

-behaviour modification: developing the skills, knowledge & coping mechanisms for appropriate social behaviour

-training & education: improving verbal & non verbal communication skills & providing the knowledge to develop new skills

IMPLEMENTATION

Objectives are attained by utilising our occupational sheltered workshops, (Print, Canteen, Sewing, Craft, Garden and Contract Units) and by accessing local community activities.

Service users on the activation programme, have the opportunity to attend classes in, Personal Development, Healthy Lifestyle, Adult Literacy, Computers, Sports & Recreation and Drama. Service users are encouraged to participate in outings and walks.

SPORT AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Introduction
The Sports and Recreation Department provides a year round adult physical activity programme. The timetable offers a variety of activities that can be recreational or competitive. At all times Sport and Recreation programme focuses on people’s abilities not their disabilities.

The sports department has developed significantly through the years and is now large, thriving area with three full time staff. The biggest project to date is the swimming pool which has been a favourite for many who use it. The newest development to date is the Bocce court which will be ready to open in September.

The Sports Department includes; The Fitness Suite, Sports Hall, Putting Green, Astroturf Soccer Pitch, Swimming Pool and Bocce Court.

The sports department have also been given exclusive free membership for adult service users in “Workout Express” www.wecharleville.com this allows service users to workout under the supervision of the sports department staff in the fully equipped gym on Bakers road.

Recreation activities such as the choir, historical and outdoor pursuits sessions are also an important element of the programme.

Fitness Suite
The fitness suite is a general fitness area that consists primarily of cardio vascular equipment. All new, commercial equipment include a treadmill, 2 rowing machines, 2 bikes and a cross trainer. All sessions are supervised by fully qualified fitness instructors who run programmes such as general fitness sessions and personal training sessions.

Sports Hall
The sports hall holds events such as basketball, indoor soccer, table tennis, circuit training and aerobics on a daily basis as well as a whole range of yearly events such as the Spring Fair, Drama group and school plays.

Putting Green
This area consists of a putting green for practising golf skills.

Astroturf Soccer Pitch
The outdoor soccer pitch is used regularly at lunch times and on a weekly basis for the St Josephs Foundation Soccer teams training, after which they jog up to the swimming pool for a leisurely team building swim and Jacuzzi.

Swimming Pool
The swimming pool hosts a range of activities varying from recreational adult swims, structured swimming lessons and hydro therapy sessions with our Physio team. The Holy family school also utilise the pool every morning for 2 and a half hours.

Bocce Court
Bocce is a precision sport belonging to the boules sport family, closely related to bowls. Bocce, Italian word boccia means "bowl". The Bocce court due to open in September 2008 is a very exciting facility for the sports department and for everybody who will use the facility.

CURRENT PROGRAMME

Service Users participate in the various programmes. These include a range of outdoor and indoor sports, team and individual sports. Recreational activities, such as choir, historical group, public speaking, integration with the community and other organisations. Special coaching/competition days are organised. Service users are facilitated and trained for Special Olympics events. Our Service Users have represented their country at national, international and at world levels.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Service users gain recognition and awards for their participating through certification, demonstrating their abilities, completing FETAC, FAS, IAS and main stream sporting awards. Partaking in competition and integration with the wider community. They have experienced a trip to Old Trafford, recorded their own C.D. and performing and speaking in public places.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS

The Sport & Recreational Programme at St. Joseph's Foundation is constantly developing and improving.

Phase one of our sporting facility is happening, an all purpose sports hall, fitness studio, all weather pitch and putting green. Phase two a hydrotherapy pool and changing facilities. These will enhance and provide our Service Users with the opportunity to train and enjoy to their fullest potential.

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