Rehab Group acquires Cork autism service which supports 600 people to live independent lives

Rehab Group, Ireland’s largest disability organisation, has announced the acquisition of the Cork-based service which helps people on the autism spectrum to live independent lives.

Aspect, is a support service developed specifically for adults with Asperger Syndrome/ High Functioning Autism which was formerly run by the Cork Association for Autism.
It provides specialist supports and intervention to approximately 600 people in the Cork and Kerry area, whilst also promoting awareness, education and understanding of Asperger Syndrome.

Asperger Syndrome is a spectrum condition which can present in many different ways and to varying degrees. It commonly effects social communication, social interaction, social imagination and sensory processing.

Aspect clients liaise with qualified and experienced key workers who help provide information and guidance in the areas of education, employment, independent living skills, communication and social skills and social and community involvement.

The service also provides links with housing authorities, local universities, employment agencies, etc. to provide well informed and productive support and advice.

Barry McGinn CEO of the Rehab Group said; “We are delighted to announce this acquisition today and are excited to continue to deliver high-quality services to people who will benefit from Aspect’s services. Rehab Group offer a wide range of services to support people with autism, in fact more than 20pc of the people in our services are on the autism spectrum. As part of our strategic vision, and our commitment to the people who use our services, we have developed a strategic plan to enhance the many successful elements of our current autism specialist service provision. We aim to work towards offering a seamless pathway of specialist support for people with autism- through which people can continuously progress, and reach their full potential, Aspect will play a key role in that strategic goal.”

The successful transition of the Aspect service to Rehab Group today brings to an end an extensive period of hard work by a team of individuals from Aspect, RehabCare and the HSE.

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