Designing Homes for Everyone

In this episode of Housing Insights, Roslyn Molloy is joined by Ruth O'Reilly (National Disability Authority) and Declan Gaffney (Age Friendly Ireland) to discuss the vital role of Universal and Age Friendly Design in Ireland's housing landscape.

 

Reflections on the National Strategy

A critical piece of the puzzle discussed by our guests is the National Housing Strategy for Disabled People 2022–2027. This strategy is central to addressing the housing challenges disabled people face, specifically by:

• Improving coordination between Local Authorities and the HSE to align accessible housing with necessary support services.

• Promoting the UNCRPD principle of "nothing about us without us," ensuring disabled people have a seat at the table in decision-making and standard-setting.

• The Housing Agency’s pivotal role in driving the implementation of these strategic goals.

 

Featured Resources & Links

• CEUD Housing Guidelines: Comprehensive guides for designing, building, and managing Universally Designed homes.

• Home and Supports Hub: A central resource for information on housing options and rights for disabled people in Ireland.

• UK Research on Domestic Stairs: Scientific evidence supporting how stair design (tread depth) dramatically impacts fall prevention.

• Age Friendly Ireland: Information on the Healthy Age Friendly Homes programme and local technical advisors.

• www.agefriendlyhomes.ie

• Housing Insights Issue 7: Cornamona Court, Intergenerational Living | The Housing Agency

• Thinking Ahead: Independent and Supported Housing Models for an Ageing Population | The Housing Agency

Guest Information

Ruth O'Reilly: Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advisor at the National Disability Authority (NDA).

Declan Gaffney: National Technical Programme Manager at Age Friendly Ireland.