Friedreichs Ataxia Society Ireland

Progressive Disability from Childhood, Incorporating other Genetic Ataxias Established Since 1980 Charity Number 7076

The Friedreichs Ataxia Society Ireland is a national voluntary organisation that cares for people disabled with Friedreichs Ataxia and other Genetic Ataxias. The Friedreichs Ataxia Society was established in 1980 and it is a fully registered Charity (No. 7076). Membership of the Society is available to any interested person whether or not they are affected by a Genetic Ataxia.

The Society provides ongoing help and support to the families of those with Friedreichs and other Genetic Ataxias, and recognises that this is particularly important when the disorder is first diagnosed. This helps to remedy their uncertainty and sense of isolation at that difficult time, and provides essential genetic and other relevant information, to enable them adjust to their new situation.

The objectives of the Society are:

To provide a forum in which people with Friedreichs and other hereditary Ataxias, and their relatives can meet, exchange views, make and comment on suggestions, and discuss their difficulties and aspirations.
To provide information on all aspects of the condition.
To help its members in obtaining suitable accommodation, and other necessary amenities. Advice is given also in relation to financial and other benefits to which they are entitled.
To keep in touch with similar Ataxia groups throughout the world and with other support organisations in Ireland.
To act as advocacy and lobby group for people with Friedreichs and other Genetic Ataxias.
To fund research into Genetic Ataxias and to monitor and assess the research being undertaken in other countries. Also to investigate methods of treatment and management of the condition and to work towards providing such treatment for its members.
To provide Respite Care and arrange suitable social activities and interaction for its members.