INDEPENDENT PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE

Independent People with Disabilities Company Limited By Guarantee (IPWD) is a charitable, volunteer-run organisation that champions the rights and wellbeing of all people with disabilities across Westmeath, Longford and Roscommon. Established in February 2012, it is the only democratic, independent, grass-roots body of its kind in the three counties, and it aspires to develop into a national organisation.

From its office in Athlone, IPWD delivers a broad suite of information and support services for individuals and families, including specialist braille-printing, advice on everyday challenges, and disability-awareness training for schools and community groups. The charity also plays an active advocacy role, representing service users on local and national decision-making bodies and campaigning for the full implementation of the 402 recommendations set out in the 1993 Strategy for Equality. Through research, guidance and self-advocacy programmes, IPWD works to promote equity in education, training and employment, and to foster a more inclusive society for people with disabilities.