Down Syndrome Ireland’s Tipperary branch provides a welcoming and supportive space for people with Down syndrome and their families. Located at Meitheal 21 in Thurles, the name “Meitheal 21” comes from the Irish word ” Meitheal” meaning a community coming together to help one another, and “21″ refering to Trisomy 21, the medical name for Down syndrome (an extra copy of chromosome 21).
The branch offers a wide range of educational, therapeutic, social and community programmes across the county, which reflects a commitment to supporting members of all ages, from early years through to adulthood.
The organisation is led by a dedicated parent committee, supported by Down Syndrome Ireland’s National Office. Within the branch, there is a full-time Speech and Language Therapist, a part-time Speech and Language Therapist, a branch manager, and administrative staff. The branch also relies greatly on parents, volunteers and external facilitators whose contributions help shape and deliver programmes throughout the year, such as:
Therapeutic Supports
- Speech & Language Therapy (SLT): Individual and group sessions for children aged 0–3, 3–6, 6–12, teenagers and adults. New referrals can be made here.
- Educational Tuition: Focuses on functional maths, reading, and writing, as well as play, motor, and social skill development. One-to-one and group sessions build essential life skills – such as writing a shopping list, reading a menu, or telling the time – helping members reach their full potential and live confident, independent lives.
- Occupational Therapy (OT): Specialist intervention supporting sensory, motor and daily living skills (by referral).
- Springhouse Drama Therapy Groups: Provided by Springhouse Therapy Centre, offering creative arts psychotherapy for mental health and wellbeing for children and adults.
Youth & Community Programmes
- Tipperary Treasures Dance Classes: Weekly dance sessions for adults, teens and tweens.
- Saturday Leisure Activities: Swimming and recreational activities in Nenagh and Thurles.
Adult Programmes
- Work Readiness Programme (Supported by Tipperary ETB): A structured weekly programme at TUS focused on lifelong learning, skills development and personal growth.
- Café 21 Project: Weekly café sessions at The Source Arts Centre providing hands-on hospitality and customer service experience.
- Weekly SLT Groups and Social Activities: Supporting communication, independence and social connection.
- Summer Programme: Trips, arts, dance, music, karaoke and opportunities for adults to enjoy social experiences in an inclusive environment.
- Regional Advisory Council: Active in 2024/25, with new membership opening in September 2026. Learn more here.
Social & Community Life
- Social Fridays: Monthly outings including cinema, theatre, concerts and cultural events.
- Seasonal Events: Inclusive gatherings such as discos, karaoke, themed celebrations and “Friendship & Community” lunches with Day Service friends.
- Annual events: Halloween and Christmas parties, Culture Night celebrations, Cruinniú na nÓg performances and World Down Syndrome Day events.
Fundraising & Community Support
- Yearly Events: Programmes are supported throughout the year by fundraising initiatives including Sarah’s Cycle, Tour de Munster, annual bucket collections, Jingle Your Jumper, Lots of Socks , and Ice Cream Fun Days. These all play a vital role in sustaining services and expanding opportunities for members.
