NORTH CORK/SOUTH WEST LIMERICK SIBSHOPS

Sibshops are opportunities for brothers and sisters of siblings with special needs to obtain peer support, education and advice within a recreational context. It gives siblings a chance to meet other siblings in a relaxed, leisurely setting and to discuss the common joys and concerns with other siblings. It will provide brothers and sisters with an opportunity to learn how others manage situations usually experienced by other families. It should also provide siblings with an opportunity to learn more about the implications of their brother’s or sister’s special needs.

We would also hope that it will allow parents and other professionals to learn more about the concerns and opportunities frequently experienced by siblings. Sibshops are not therapy, group or otherwise, although their effect may be therapeutic for some children. It acknowledges that most brothers and sisters of people with special needs, like their parents, are doing very well, despite the challenges posed by a family member’s illness or disability. Sibshops reflect a belief that brothers and sisters have much to offer one another, if given the chance.

The Sibshops are held on the first Saturday of every month in a child friendly environment in Charleville and are facilitated by a multi agency team of professionals and volunteers. The team involves staff from St. Joseph’s Foundation, Le Cheile FRC, Mallow and Avondhu Development, Mallow. Children, from ages 8 to12 years, can attend the Sibshops but this age range may change in time.

The contact details of the North Cork/South West Limerick Sibshop are as follows:

Primary Contact:

Emer Hurley Williams,
St. Joseph’s Foundation,
Baker’s Road,
Charleville,
Co. Cork.

Phone: 063-89252.