The overnight respite service for people with additional needs in North Kerry, previously known as ‘Cois na Feile’, has re-opened.
The service will be fully operational by next week.
HSE South West has confirmed it has awarded the tender to the Orchard Care Group.
The Orchard Care Group will deliver the service in a new four-bed house at in Duagh Heights for seven nights each week.
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality and Kerry TD Norma Foley has welcomed the news; as has Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Kerry TD Michael Healy Rae.
This new respite service replaces the one previously provided by Kerry Parents and Friends Association in Kilmorna, Listowel.
That four-bed respite centre closed in February last year due to staffing shortages.
HSE South West says, in addition to overnight respite, it provides alternative respite models for children and adults, including afterschool clubs, in-home support for children and adults, outreach supports and holiday breaks for adults.
