Step Forward urges openness in charities

We, the members of Step Forward disability group, wish to express our concern and outrage about the misappropriation of funds in both CRC and Rehab.

Step Forward operates at The Family Resource Centre, Hospital, Co Limerick, supporting people with disabilities, their carers and their parents.

Lack of regulation, accountability and poor governance within the disability sector have left it open to abuse; often resulting in poor follow-up and delivery of service.

The most vulnerable are concerned that their needs are not being addressed.

In the current climate of severe cutbacks to supports, medical cards, mobility allowances, grants and home-care packages, it is even more difficult and stressful for individuals and families to deal with these cuts, when, at the top of certain disability organisations, funding is misdirected for gain.

Our members have fundraised for different disability organisations, and have done so knowing that specialised services for disability are essential.

However, following the latest revelations, fundraisers will need to trust that monies collected are going directly to services and supports.

This will only happen with full compliance, transparency and proper regulation of all charities.

Martha Potter

Step Forward Disability

Co Limerick