Who we are
Our network was founded in 2003 to support host families who provide short breaks to children and adults with intellectual disability. Since then, it has expanded to include guests with other disabilities. It also includes contract family schemes and home-sharing services that provide part-time and long-term family based accommodation to adults and children.
Our Vision
Our vision is of an Ireland where people can enjoy full social inclusion.
Our Mission & Aims
Our mission is to support family based short breaks and inclusive living.
The aims of NHSN are:
- To promote host family based services
- To develop good practice and standards
- To assist schemes to recruit hosts
- To retain an up to date directory of schemes
- To represent the sector at national and international level
- To promote research and disseminate findings
NHSN Committee Members:
- Chair: Dr Bernie Fay, Sisters of Charity of Jesus & Mary, Mullingar
- Vice-Chair: Ms Therese McDonnell, St. Michael’s House, Dublin
- Secretary: Ms Patricia O’Meara, Bro. of Charity Services-Clare
- Treasurer: Ms Catherine O’Sullivan, Daughters of Charity, Limerick
- PRO: Mr Des Hanrahan, Saint John of God North East Services, Louth
- North West Rep: Nr Marie Gilmartin, Health Service Executive, Sligo
- South East Rep: Ms Ciara Murphy, Brothers of Charity Services, Waterford
- North East Rep: Ms. Bried Kelly, Health Service Executive, Navan, Co. Meath
- Cork Rep: Ms. Jennifer Bourke, St. Joseph’s Foundation, Baker’s Road, Charlville, Co. Cork.
- Co-opted: Ms Margaret Murray, Ability West, Galway
NHSN National Survey
A Host Of Opportunities, the second NHSN national survey of home-sharing and short-breaks is now available to download.
Download - PDF file