‘Momentous occasion’ as ‘vital service’ in Carndonagh is officially reopened

The official reopening of the Carndonagh Day Care Centre Services for Older Persons has been described as a “momentous occasion” by the group that campaigned for its re-opening.

The service reopened last month at the Spraoi agus Spórt facility in Carndonagh after closing in March 2020 due to Covid-19 restrictions at Carndonagh Community Hospital. 

A special event was held at the service’s new home, which is located at SuperValu Shopping centre in the town, on Tuesday morning to mark the official reopening.

The celebration was attended by service users of the Carndonagh Day Care Centre, their family members and friends.  

Also in attendance were the Restoration Carndonagh Day Care services committee, HSE Staff and a number  of community representatives from Carndonagh. 

Entertainment on the day was provided by special guest appearances from The Henry Girls, Carndonagh Choir and the Carndonagh Brass Band. 

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 Tony Doherty, chairperson for the Restoration Carndonagh Day Care services committee said: “On behalf of the committee we are thrilled to be here to mark this momentous occasion.  

"The Carndonagh Day Care Centre for Older Persons provides much-needed vital service to our community.  It is at the heart of the well being 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.”

Following a review of the service in 2022 it was determined that the hospital was no longer suitable to provide day care services. The  relocation of services from Carndonagh Community Hospital occurred in 2023.  For the past two years, services were temporarily moved to Glengad while a suitable premises was sought in Carndonagh.  The Glengad centre also remains operational.

The day service now operates on Mondays and Tuesdays, from 10am to 3:30pm. Approximately 15 to 20 people attend each day, benefiting from a variety of activities tailored to their individual preferences. These activities include music, dancing  card playing, poetry and chair exercises.  These 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. 

 Transport is available to assist attendees to access this important community resource. Referrals for the service can be made through the local Public Health Nurse, and queries can be directed to the Director of Nursing at the Carndonagh Community Hospital.

Frank Morrison, head of  service, older persons, Hse Community Services for Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Monaghan, Sligo said: “We 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.  The service will allow people to socialise in their own community and to avail of the wide range of activities on offer”.