The Summer Respite programme is set for a major boost in the west and north west of Ireland, with the Health Service Executive (HSE) confirming more than €1.1 million in funding for disability supports in 2026. The investment is aimed at expanding meaningful respite opportunities for adults and children, while giving families and carers more flexible, community-based support during the summer months.
According to the Health Service Executive (HSE), a total of €1,106,787 has been allocated across 106 projects in the HSE West and North West region. Of these, 48 projects will support adults and 58 will focus on children with a disability. The funding covers counties Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Roscommon and Galway, strengthening local access to inclusive programmes closer to home.
Summer Respite funding to expand local disability supports
This Summer Respite allocation reflects a broader national push across gov.ie and the Department of the Taoiseach to improve person-centred public services. In practice, the projects are designed to widen the availability, diversity and accessibility of respite supports for people with disabilities and their families.
The HSE says the funded initiatives will help build a more responsive model of care by supporting communities and service providers to deliver tailored experiences. That means families can access supports that are respectful, empowering and adapted to individual needs, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all system.
What types of activities will be funded?
The 2026 Summer Respite projects cover a broad mix of programmes, including:
- Sport and physical activity
- Performing and creative arts
- Health and wellbeing programmes
- Outdoor and environmental education
- Science, technology and learning activities
- Music and cultural engagement
This variety is important because it supports inclusion, independence and social participation while also giving carers a valuable break. It also aligns with wider priorities across Health, Social Protection, Education and Children/Disability/Equality.
What ministers and HSE leaders said about Summer Respite
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley described respite services as essential for disabled people, families and carers, noting that they create opportunities for participation, independence and social connection. She said the HSE’s 2026 summer initiative will support more than 250 projects nationwide and help families access inclusive community experiences.
Minister of State with responsibility for Disability Emer Higgins welcomed the range of supported activities, saying the programme shows why flexible, person-centred services matter. She also acknowledged the work of community groups, service providers and HSE teams in delivering practical supports on the ground.
Anne O’Connor, CEO of the Health Service Executive (HSE), highlighted the role of local communities, partnerships and service capacity in making the initiative successful. Regional Disability Lead Edel Quinn said the funding would directly benefit families across the west and north west while improving local inclusion for both adults and children.
Family experience highlights the value of inclusion
A powerful example of inclusive support came through the GAA and HSE partnership around Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps. Parents Niall and Emma O’Gorman said their son Jack, who is autistic and deaf, was welcomed and supported in an inclusive session in Kilkenny, allowing him to take part fully alongside his sister. Their comments underline why Summer Respite and accessible community programmes can have such a lasting impact.
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Why this Summer Respite investment matters in 2026
The latest Summer Respite funding is not just a seasonal announcement. It forms part of a wider effort to improve disability services through innovation, local partnerships and sustained public investment. Alongside these summer projects, the HSE is also backing more than 60 long-term respite projects through core funding, helping ensure continuity beyond a single season.
For families navigating disability supports, this is a practical and welcome development. The key takeaway is clear: Summer Respite funding in 2026 will expand access to inclusive, flexible supports in local communities, while reinforcing the HSE’s commitment to better outcomes for children, adults, carers and families across Ireland.
Article/Image Courtesy: Health Service Executive (HSE)
