Trinity Ability Co-op
The Trinity Ability co_op is a co-operative movement led by students with disabilities working towards radical inclusion on campus and more generally in third level education. The Co_op is a Disabled People’s Organisation (DPO). The Co_op collaborates with different services within Trinity College Dublin (TCD) to ensure that accessibility and inclusion is a priority in the college.
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Trinity Ability Co_op's Mission, Strategy, and Goals
Trinity Ability co_op’s main mission is to make Trinity College, and more generally Irish third level education, an inclusive environment for students with disabilities. We work in partnership with Trinity's disAbility Service to ensure that inclusion is a priority in Trinity.
Where is the Trinity Ability Co_op?
The Ability Co_op is based within the disAbility Hub in Printing House Square, specifically in An Mheitheal. The Co_op space is student-run and can be used for meetings, project work, and events.
What kind of projects is the Co_op working on?
The Ability Co_op is student-led, and all projects and activities are proposed and mutually agreed by its members. From media campaigns to creative workshops, we can all contribute and work together towards enhancing inclusion in Trinity. Our projects for the 2025/2026 academic year include:
- Gain official recognition as a Disabled Persons’ Organisation (DPO) under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
- Fix and update the Trinity Ability Co_op website.
- Work with the organisers of Trinity Ball to ensure accessibility for all disabled attendees.
- Get funding to carry out a LENS Report Audit, and institute change and training based on our findings.
- Campaign about the rights of disabled Postgraduate students in receipt of Disability Allowance, who also receive a study stipend, in accordance with S.I. 109/2021.
- Help create a system of accountability for Trinity societies, along with the Central Societies Committee (CSC), to ensure they prioritise accessibility at their events.
- Increasing Intersectionality discussions and creating collaborations with Trinity societies.
- Expand the membership of the Trinity Ability Co_op.
Why should I get involved?
Members of the Co_op have the opportunity to ensure that the voices of disabled students are heard, and they can take ownership of inclusive practice across the Trinity community. The Co_op is also a great platform for developing skills and gathering experience that is beneficial for personal and academic development, as well as future employability. Participating in the Co_op provides opportunities for individuals to develop in areas such as communication, teamwork, networking, and leadership. Not only is participating in the Co_op beneficial for the development of personal skills, graduate attributes, and career readiness, but it’s also a great opportunity to contribute to Civic Engagement in Trinity.
How can I join the Ability Co_op?
Membership in the Ability Co_op is open to any disabled student who is interested in contributing. You don’t need to have any particular skills or previous experience. Simply contact abilitycoop@gmail.com to express your interest, or fill out this form.
The Ability Co_op on Social Media
All of our latest news and activities are posted on our social media channels: