This initiative is run through the Kildare Children & Young People’s Services Committee and Kildare Local Community Development Committee who were successful in receiving funding under the Local Area Child Poverty Action Plan, an initiative of the Department of Children, Disability & Equality. The programme is delivered through the Family Resource Centres across Kildare with Dr Dorothy Armstrong (Occupational Therapist) leading the delivery of the Occupational Therapy programme of intervention and education.

Professional Training Workshop on Neurodiversity facilitated by Dr Dorothy Armstrong 2024

Neurodivergent children are often on lengthy waiting lists prior to being able to access therapy. This project is designed to provide these children and their families with a block of support whil they are waiting intervention through the HSE. This programme is delivered through the Family Resource Centres (FRCs) across Kildare. Dr Dorothy Armstrong (Occupational Therapist) has led the occupational therapy programme since its inception in 2024. Programme includes:

1. Occupational Therapy intervention for neurodivergent children – Children who meet the criteria and are on waiting lists, receive a block of occupational therapy which is delivered by a team of Occupational Therapists led by and including Dr Armstrong.
2. Dorothy Armstrong provides clinical supervision to all of the occupational therapists. 
3. Parent education programs – In person groups run by Dorothy Armstrong for the parents and carers of the children who access the programme.
4. Education programs on Neurodiversity for Professionals: Five sessions lasting three hours each delivered by Dr Armstrong. 

The great strength of the program is that the professionals working at the family resource centres have a strong relationships with the families and are instrumental in providing ongoing support during and post the Occupational Therapy.