Personal Assistance Service
DCIL provide HSE personal assistance services to people with physical disabilities, sensory disabilities and older people.
Education Support Services
DCIL provides Educational Support Workers (ESWs) to support students with disabilities in third-level education.
Accessible Transport Hire
DCIL provide a invaluable van service for our Leaders who do not have any other means of accessible transport.
Disability Awareness Training
DCIL provide disability awareness training in schools to develop a positive attitude towards people with disabilities.
Nothing about us without us
DCIL is the leading provider of Personal Assistant Services in Donegal, and the organisation is enshrined by the philosophy of independent living. “Independent Living” means that people with a disability want the same life opportunities and choices as everyone else. That includes growing up with their families, attending the local school, using the same bus, gaining employment in line with their education and abilities, having equal access to the same services and establishments of social life, culture, and leisure.
Vision
DCIL’s vision is to see people with disabilities both in Donegal and throughout Ireland, finally realising their potential through the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities enabling people’s freedom and choice to live independently with adequate supports in a truly inclusive society.
Mission
DCIL’s mission is to support and empower people with disabilities in Donegal to achieve
Independent Living and to actively participate as equal citizens in society by having choice and control over their own lives.
Values
Our core values are underpinned by the philosophy of Independent Living and all activities
are aimed towards promoting:
- Independence
- Options
- Rights
- Empowerment
Our approach to Service Delivery is:
Based on the social model of disability
The social model sees society and the barriers it places to the aspirations and progress of people with disability to be a fault. These barriers tend to be in three kinds: environmental, attitudinal and organisational.
Rights not charity
We don’t believe in evoking a sense of pity and charity towards people with disabilities. Instead, we want to encourage change and advance the rights of people with disabilities.
Nothing about us without us
No policy should be devloped or decided upon by any representative without the full and direct participation of people with disabilities.
Inclusivity
Striving to provide equal access and opportunity, fully participating in every aspect of DCIL to the best of their abilities and desires.
History of DCIL
1972
Berkeley, California
The Independent Living Movement grew out of the disability rights movement, which began in the 1960s. The first Centre for Independent Living was established in Berkeley, California in 1972. its establishment was motivated by individuals seeking to leave residential care and live independently in the community, as part of the community.
1992
Dublin, Ireland
1999
DCIL established in Donegal
2002
The Growth of DCIL
2008
Strengthening Commitment
2015
DCIL opens its new premises
2023
Empowering Independence
DCIL received funding from Rethink Ireland to support people with disabilities in gaining greater independence and to enhance accessibility across Donegal. The project included independent living workshops, personal development coaching, and community outreach, helping participants build confidence and practical life skills. DCIL also conducted accessibility audits in a variety of public and private spaces, leading to positive changes and increased awareness in the community. Additionally, tailored guidance was offered to support disabled people through the social housing application process.