World Autism Awareness Day 2025: Promoting Understanding and Inclusion

Did you know that approximately 1 in 65 people in Ireland are on the autism spectrum? World Autism Awareness Day, celebrated annually on April 2nd, offers an opportunity to learn, support, and advocate for greater inclusivity for those with autism. By fostering understanding and acceptance, we can help create a society where everyone feels valued and supported.

Understanding Autism

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurological condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and experiences the world around them. As a spectrum condition, it impacts individuals differently—some may require significant support in daily life, while others live independently with minimal assistance. Awareness and understanding are key to ensuring that individuals with autism have access to the right support and opportunities.

How You Can Support Autism Awareness and Inclusion

  1. Educate Yourself and Others – Learn more about autism through reputable sources and share accurate information to challenge misconceptions.

  2. Promote Acceptance – Move beyond awareness and actively support inclusion in workplaces, schools, and public spaces.

  3. Be Mindful and Supportive – Small actions, such as using clear communication and being considerate of sensory sensitivities, can create a more autism-friendly environment.

  4. Encourage Accessibility – Support initiatives like sensory-friendly events, autism-friendly workplaces, and clear signage in public spaces.

  5. Engage with Advocacy Groups – Get involved with charities and organisations working to improve the lives of individuals with autism through resources, policy advocacy, and community programs.

Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

World Autism Awareness Day reminds us to be mindful of our words and actions, striving to create a more compassionate and inclusive world for everyone. Diversity is what makes our communities vibrant and unique. By embracing our differences and working together, we can foster a society that values and respects all individuals.

The Role of Advocacy and Support Organisations

In Ireland, organisations like AsIAm play a crucial role in autism advocacy and support. AsIAm is Ireland’s national autism charity, providing education, resources, and advocacy to promote understanding and inclusion across all sectors of Irish society.

Other organisations also offer vital resources and support to individuals with autism and their families. By working together, they help ensure that those navigating the journey of autism have access to the guidance and community they need.

Other Resources

For more information about autism and available resources in Ireland, visit:

  • AsIAm – Ireland’s national autism charity, offering advocacy, resources, and education.

  • HSE Autism Information – Official health service information on autism, including diagnosis and support.

  • ASD Ireland – Providing social groups, educational resources, and family support.

  • Irish Society of Autism – Advocacy, research, and awareness initiatives to support the autism community.

AsIAm’s Walk for Autism – April 5th

As part of World Autism Awareness Month, AsIAm is hosting a Walk for Autism on April 5th. This event is a wonderful opportunity to show your support for the autism community and raise awareness. You can find out more and participate here: Walk for Autism.

This World Autism Awareness Day, take a moment to educate yourself, support advocacy efforts, or attend an autism-friendly event in your community. Together, we can create a more inclusive and accepting world for all.

Join RHS Home Care at the Roscommon Career & Employment Expo!

Are you looking for a rewarding career in home care? RHS Home Care is excited to announce that we will be attending the Roscommon Career & Employment Expo on Wednesday, 2nd April, from 11 AM to 2 PM at Kilbride Community Centre, F42 N277. This is a fantastic opportunity for qualified care professionals to learn more about RHS Home Care and the benefits of joining our team.

Why Attend?

At RHS Home Care, we provide compassionate, high-quality care to those in need, helping them to live independently in their own homes. We are currently hiring Care Assistants across Roscommon and surrounding areas, and we want to meet individuals who are passionate about making a difference in their communities.

What to Expect

When you visit our stand, you will:
✅ Learn about exciting job opportunities in home care
✅ Discover our competitive pay rates and uncapped mileage & travel payments
✅ Find out about our flexible working hours to suit your lifestyle
✅ Get insights into career progression and professional development opportunities
✅ Learn about our staff benefits, including uniform & PPE provision, on-call support, and employee discounts
✅ Have the chance to apply on the spot! Bring your CV and qualifications for immediate consideration

Who Should Attend?

We are looking for qualified Care Assistants who meet the necessary experience and training requirements. If you have the required qualifications and a passion for helping others, this is your chance to take the next step in your career.

Event Details

📍 Kilbride Community Centre, F42 N277
📅 Wednesday, 2nd April
11 AM – 2 PM

We look forward to meeting you at the Roscommon Career & Employment Expo! If you have any questions before the event, feel free to contact us. See you there! 💙

📞 Contact us:
📧 Email: info@rhshomecare.ie
📞 Phone: 090 6625988
🌍 Website: www.rhshomecare.ie

The RHS Home Care Advantage: What Sets Us Apart

At RHS Home Care, we have been providing high-quality, compassionate care to the elderly and individuals with varying health needs since 1996. Our commitment to care extends across counties Roscommon, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, and Leitrim, ensuring that those in need can continue living independently and comfortably in their own homes.

A Not-for-Profit with a Purpose

What truly differentiates RHS Home Care from other providers is our not-for-profit status. Unlike for-profit organisations, we reinvest all our resources back into enhancing and expanding our services. This commitment ensures that the wellbeing of our clients and staff remains at the heart of everything we do. Our focus is on delivering the best possible care, rather than generating profit.

Personalised Care Tailored to You

At RHS Home Care, we understand that no two individuals are the same. That’s why we tailor each care plan to the specific needs of our clients, ensuring they receive the support required to live safely, independently, and with dignity in the comfort of their own home. Our person-centred approach ensures that care is always delivered with compassion and respect.

Community-Based Carers Who Truly Care

We carefully select our carers from the local communities we serve. This not only allows them to build deeper and more personal connections with clients but also fosters a sense of belonging and trust. By staying actively engaged in local events and community initiatives, our carers go beyond providing assistance—they help clients stay involved and connected to the people and places that matter most to them.

Join the RHS Home Care Family

When you choose RHS Home Care, you are choosing a service where care, compassion, and community come together to make a real difference. Whether you or a loved one require home care services, or if you are interested in joining our dedicated team, we are here to help.

📞 Contact Us: 090 6625988
📧 General Enquiries: care@rhshomecare.ie
📧 Career Enquiries: jobs@rhshomecare.ie
🌐 Website: https://rhshomecare.ie/

Galway Recruitment Roadshow – We’re Hiring Care Assistants! 

Are you a compassionate and experienced Carer looking for a fulfilling career with great pay, flexibility, and progression? RHS Home Care is hitting the road this March with our Galway Recruitment Roadshow—and we want to meet you!

This is your chance to chat with our team, learn about our roles, and take the next step in your career. Whether you’re looking for full-time or part-time work, we have opportunities to suit your lifestyle.

📍 Where to Find Us

We’re bringing our recruitment open days to three locations across Galway:

📌 Loughrea Family Resource Centre – 6th March, 10 AM – 4 PM
📌 Gort Family Resource Centre – 13th March, 10 AM – 4 PM
📌 Tuam Family Resource Centre – 21st March, 10 AM – 4 PM

Drop by anytime—no appointment needed!

🌟 Why Join RHS Home Care?

At RHS Home Care, we believe in care with compassion and supporting our team every step of the way. When you work with us, you’ll benefit from:

✔️ Highest pay rates in the West of Ireland
✔️ Uncapped paid mileage & travel time 💰
✔️ Flexible work schedules (Full-time & Part-time) ⏳
✔️ Career progression & ongoing training 📈
✔️ A rewarding role that makes a real difference 💙

💼 What to Expect on the Day

Our team will be on hand to discuss the role, answer questions, and even conduct on-the-spot interviews for those who bring their CV and qualifications.

If you’re passionate about providing care and looking for a flexible, well-paid role, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

📞 Get in Touch

Have questions? Want to apply in advance? Contact us today:
📞 090 6625 988
📧 jobs@rhshomecare.ie

Age Friendly Ireland Newsletter

At RHS Home Care, we are dedicated to supporting older people in our communities, ensuring they have access to the services and resources they need to live well. As proud members of Roscommon Age Friendly Ireland, we actively promote initiatives that enhance the quality of life for older adults in our region.

Age Friendly Ireland works across the country to improve accessibility, inclusivity, and support systems for older people. Their latest Age Friendly Newsletter highlights important updates.

Stay Informed & Connected

We encourage everyone to stay up to date with the latest Age Friendly initiatives by reading the February 2025 Age Friendly Newsletter.

📲 Read the newsletter here: Newsletter 07.02.25

At RHS Home Care, we are committed to age-friendly care, dignity, and independence for older adults. Let’s continue to make our community a better place to grow older!

Supporting Elderly Loved Ones This Christmas

As Christmas approaches, it’s a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness for many. However, for some elderly family members and friends, the festive season can bring feelings of loneliness and isolation. With the hustle and bustle of the season, it’s important to pause and check in with the older people in our lives to ensure they feel included and supported.

Why Christmas Can Be a Lonely Time

For older adults, Christmas can be a bittersweet time. They may be reminded of loved ones they’ve lost, traditions they can no longer participate in, or the physical limitations that prevent them from fully engaging in festive activities. For those living alone or far from family, the season can feel especially isolating.

How to Check In and Offer Support

Here are some thoughtful ways to connect with and support elderly loved ones during the Christmas period:

  1. Reach Out Regularly: A simple phone call or visit can mean the world to someone feeling lonely. Ask them about their plans for Christmas and how they’re feeling about the season.
  2. Involve Them in Festive Activities: Include them in your Christmas traditions, such as decorating the tree, baking treats, or watching Christmas films. These shared moments can create wonderful memories.
  3. Offer Practical Help: Assist with tasks that may be challenging for them, such as shopping for gifts, sending Christmas cards, or putting up decorations.
  4. Encourage Social Interaction: If they are comfortable, help them connect with local community groups or festive events where they can meet others and celebrate together.
  5. Deliver a Christmas Surprise: A thoughtful gesture, such as dropping off a homemade meal, a festive hamper, or a handwritten card, can brighten their day.
  6. Be Present on Christmas Day: If possible, invite them to join your celebrations. If distance makes this difficult, consider arranging a video call to include them in the festivities.

Small Gestures, Big Impact

Even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference to an older person’s Christmas. By showing that you care, you’re helping to make their Christmas brighter and more meaningful.

 

Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme and Reverse Vending Machines

O’ Herlihy Access Consultancy (OHAC) in partnership with Re-turn, are conducting research into the accessibility of the Deposit Return Scheme in Ireland.

OHAC and Re-turn want to know about your experiences with the Deposit Return Scheme and your use of the reverse vending machines. There are two surveys available to submit your feedback, a standard survey, and an easy-to-read survey.
The surveys will close on the 22nd of November 2024 at 11.45pm.

You can access the surveys by following the QR links, otherwise, you can follow these links:

Survey

Easy-to-Read Survey

You can also register for an online or in-person focus group session.
The details of the focus group sessions are below:

Morning Online Focus Group (Session 1)

Date: Tuesday the 12th of November 2024.
Time:  10am to 11.15am.
Location: Microsoft Teams.

In-person Focus Group (Session 2)

Date: Monday the 18th of November 2024.
Time:  2pm to 3.30pm.
Location:  North Clondalkin Library, 1 Liscarne Close, Rowlagh, Dublin 22, D22 E2Y2.

Evening Online Focus Group (Session 3)

Date:  Tuesday the 19th of November 2024.
Time:  6.30pm to 7.45pm.
Location: Microsoft Teams.

Follow the link below to register for an online or in person focus group.

OHAC Contact

Website: O’Herlihy Access Consultancy (OHAC)
Email: drs@accessconsultancy.ie
Phone number: +353 1 415 12 85

Prostate Cancer Awareness: Supporting Movember at RHS Home Care

November marks an important time for raising awareness about men’s health, largely due to the Movember campaign. This global movement encourages men to grow moustaches throughout November to promote awareness and fundraising efforts for men’s health issues, particularly cancer related to the prostate, testicular cancer, and mental health. At RHS Home Care, we proudly participate in Movember by sharing valuable information to support men’s health and well-being.

Understanding Prostate Health and Its Importance

The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system, located just below the bladder. It plays a vital role in producing seminal fluid, which transports sperm. Cancer of the prostate occurs when cells in the gland begin to grow uncontrollably. While this condition often develops slowly, it can grow and spread rapidly in some cases, necessitating immediate treatment.

The Significance of Regular Screening for Prostate Issues

In Ireland, nearly 4,000 men are diagnosed with this type of cancer each year. This statistic underscores the critical importance of awareness and regular check-ups, as approximately 1 in 7 men will face a diagnosis during their lifetime. With these numbers in mind, understanding and discussing prostate health is more crucial than ever.

Identifying Risk Factors and Symptoms of Prostate Problems

While this condition can affect any man, certain factors may increase the risk:

  • Age: The risk significantly increases after age 50, with most cases found in men over 65.
  • Family History: Men with a family history of prostate issues, particularly if a father or brother has been diagnosed, are at higher risk.
  • Ethnicity: Studies indicate that Black men are at a greater risk, while Asian men may have a lower risk.

Many cases show few symptoms in the early stages, making regular check-ups essential. Symptoms that may indicate prostate health issues include:

  • Difficulty starting or stopping urination
  • A weak or interrupted urine flow
  • Frequent urges to urinate, especially at night
  • Pain or discomfort when sitting due to an enlarged prostate

The Importance of Early Detection in Prostate Cancer

Early detection is key to effective treatment and better outcomes. In Ireland, men over the age of 50 are encouraged to discuss their prostate health with their GP, while those with a family history should initiate this conversation earlier. A simple PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test can help assess the likelihood of issues related to the prostate. Elevated PSA levels can indicate the need for further investigation, although not all elevations are due to cancer. This screening tool may sometimes require additional tests, such as biopsies, to confirm any diagnosis.

The Marie Keating Foundation emphasises the importance of understanding one’s risk and acting early. For men in Ireland, awareness of symptoms and regular health checks can truly make a life-saving difference.

Exploring Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer

When it comes to treating this type of cancer, several approaches may be considered. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including:

  • The stage and grade of the condition
  • PSA level
  • The size of the prostate gland
  • Urinary symptoms
  • General health

Treatment options may aim to eliminate the cancer completely or, if that’s not possible, to control its growth.

  • Active Surveillance: This strategy involves closely monitoring the cancer with regular tests—including blood tests, digital rectal examinations, MRIs, and sometimes biopsies—without immediately beginning treatment. It is typically recommended for low-risk, slow-growing cases to delay potential side effects of treatment.
  • Watchful Waiting: This approach may be an option for men whose health issues make other treatments unsuitable. Regular PSA tests and digital rectal examinations are conducted, focusing on monitoring for any new symptoms. If symptoms or PSA levels indicate progression, further treatment may be considered.
  • Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy): This procedure involves the complete removal of the prostate gland and may be combined with radiotherapy to target any remaining cancer cells.
  • External Beam Radiotherapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and may be combined with hormone therapy, especially in early or locally advanced cases.
  • Hormone Therapy: This treatment reduces testosterone levels, which can help slow or stop cancer growth, and is often combined with radiotherapy.
  • Brachytherapy (Internal Radiotherapy): This involves placing a radioactive source directly into the prostate to kill cancer cells, either as low-dose-rate (LDR) for localized cases or high-dose-rate (HDR) for more aggressive situations.
  • Chemotherapy: While not a common first-line treatment for localized cases, chemotherapy is sometimes recommended for aggressive or advanced cancer that has spread beyond the prostate.

Tips for Reducing Prostate Cancer Risk

While some risk factors, like age and genetics, cannot be changed, men can adopt certain lifestyle choices to help reduce their overall cancer risk:

  • Healthy Diet: Emphasise fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting red and processed meats.
  • Regular Exercise: Engage in physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and support immune function.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking is linked to more aggressive forms of cancer.
  • Limit Alcohol: Consume alcohol in moderation, as excessive intake can increase cancer risks.

Supporting Movember and Men’s Health

At RHS Home Care, we proudly support Movember by promoting awareness, early detection, and overall wellness. The campaign also highlights men’s mental health and testicular cancer, emphasising a holistic approach to men’s well-being. We encourage all men to take proactive steps in managing their health, particularly with awareness of prostate issues.

For more comprehensive information, you can visit the following links:

RHS Home Care Receives €149,787 in Community Recognition Fund!

We are thrilled to announce that Minister Heather Humphreys TD has recently revealed a significant investment of €16.5 million under the #CommunityRecognitionFund 2024, supporting 185 community projects across the country.

We are proud to share that RHS Home Care has been awarded €149,787 as part of this initiative. This generous funding will allow us to further enhance our services and make an even greater impact on the lives of the people we care for. Our team is dedicated to providing top-quality care, and this grant will enable us to continue improving the experience for our clients, their families, and the community.

A Big Congratulations to Our Fellow Recipients:

  • The Growing Tree Integrated Early Years Education and Childcare Facility, Ballaghaderreen
  • The Boyle Family Resource Centre

We are excited to see how these wonderful organisations will use their funding to support local communities. Together, we are building stronger, more resilient services for those who need it most.

Double Celebration in Belmullet! : Farewell to Anne & Recognising our Long-Serving Carers in the North Mayo
Yesterday, we had the honour of hosting a heartwarming event in Belmullet, County Mayo, celebrating two significant milestones.
Firstly, we recognised the incredible dedication and service of our long-serving carers in the North Mayo region. Their unwavering commitment and hard work have profoundly impacted the community, providing essential care and support to those in need.

 

Secondly, we marked the well-deserved retirement of our beloved Area Supervisor, Anne Padden. For the past two decades, Anne has been an invaluable member of our team, serving as an Area Supervisor across Erris, Co Mayo. Her dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts have left a positive mark on the services we have provided across Anne’s area.

 

Anne’s commitment to the cooperative and her area has been unwavering. She has supported countless families, carers, clients, and the HSE, ensuring that our services reach those who need them most. Her leadership, kindness, and expertise have made a significant difference in the lives of many.

 

Thank you, Anne, for your incredible service and the positive impact you’ve made over the years. You will be greatly missed.
Here’s to celebrating our amazing carers and wishing Anne a wonderful retirement filled with joy and relaxation!