The ‘Inspire’ school is expected to launch at 59 Park Street and will offer one to one speech and language sessions.
‘The main aim of opening the school is to make these sessions affordable for parents of children with autism,’ said Henry Fitzsimons, who says he was motivated to work on developing a venue after reading the heartbreaking story of one parent who couldn’t afford sessions for their autistic child.
‘I have two sons, James (19) and Jack (12) both of whom were diagnosed with autism when they were small,’ explained Henry
‘I know what the challenges are, and how incredibly difficult it can be at times.’
Henry, who is a qualified dog trainer, channelled his focus into developing a business ‘Service Dogs Europe’ that could provide assistance dogs for children with autism.
Earlier this year he even trained a labrador to work with an autistic child who is living in Singapore.
Now he is keen to see children and adults have access to speech and therapy sessions that can make a huge difference in coping with autism.
‘I really was moved when I read the story of a father from down the country who wanted to get speech and language support for his autistic son, but he simple couldn’t it.’
He told how one to one sessions can cost between eighty and one hundred euro.
‘I think most people just couldn’t afford that,’ said Henry.
Inspired by the story he set about investigating how he might be able to arrange more affordable supports.
‘I was lucky in that I have found an excellent speech therapist, who formerly worked with the NHS. We are hoping to be able to provide one on one classes for around thirty euro.’
Having found the Park Street premises which he has just acquired the keys too, Henry added: ‘We hope that parents might come together to fundraise for the school’s future, but at the moment Henry Fitzsimons will cover the operational costs.’
The ‘Inspire’ school is expected to be open by November 19th.
For further information contact Henry on 93 74532.
Irish Independent
https://www.independent.ie/regionals/argus/news/new-inspire-school-for-autism-opening-30736437.html
https://www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/article-inspires-affordable-speech-therapy-project-298129.html