PI: Katy Tobin
Researchers: Dr. Elizabeth McCarthy and Anna-Marie Paavonen
Timeline: 2021
Aims: The FASDcare study aimed to
- Improve the supports available to families affected by FASD by generating information regarding access to services.
- Promote equitable access to healthcare services for those living with FASD, and their caregivers.
The specific objectives of the study were
- To examine the core difficulties experienced by caregivers and/or people with FASD, the amount and type of support required, and how much of these needs are currently met.
- Identify the level of burden experienced by caregivers of people with FASD in Ireland.
- Describe the pathway to diagnosis with FASD.
- To examine variations in the amount and type of out-of-pocket spending related to FASD (e.g., spending on consultations with healthcare professionals on the journey to diagnosis, or related to diagnosed FASD and/or co-morbidities, or spending on support services such as social care or educational support.
This study was funded by the Irish Research Council (New Foundations grant NF/2020/21940303)
This project developed a practical self-evaluation toolkit to support higher education institutions in implementing and monitoring the Healthy Campus Charter and Framework. The toolkit supports governance, process and outcomes evaluation, strengthening institutional accountability and alignment with national health promotion and wellbeing policy.
PI: Professor Catherine Darker (Trinity College Dublin)
Research team: Trinity College Dublin team members included Ms Martina Mullin, Dr David Loughrey, Ms Kaye Stapleton, Professor Susan Smith, Ms Lena Doherty, Ms Mary O’Neill. University College Cork team members included Dr Michael Byrne and Dr Susan Calnan. Munster Technological University team members included Dr Andrea Bickerdike, Dr Con Burns and Dr Cian O’Neil. University of Limerick team members included Professor Catherine Woods, Ms Sarah Kennedy, Dr Audrey Tierney, Dr Catherine Norton and Dr Eva Devaney
International Collaborators: Professor Emeritus Mark Dooris (University of Central Lancashire; Professor Stephan van den Bourke (Universite Catholique de Louvain) and Dr Vicki Squires (University of Saskatchewan)
Funding: Higher Education Authority
Tool available from: https://hea.ie/policy/health-and-wellbeing-landing-page/healthy-campus-landing-page/healthy-campus-self-evaluation-tool/
Objective:
To support consistent, evidence-informed implementation of the Healthy Campus Charter across Irish higher education.
Key components:
- Development of process and outcomes evaluation tools
- Guidance on governance, leadership and strategic alignment
- Practical resources for institutional decision-makers
Impact:
Improved capacity within higher education to implement, evaluate and sustain whole-system health promotion initiatives aligned with national policy priorities.
This project delivered the third round of a comprehensive Health Assets and Needs Assessment to inform local health service planning in Tallaght. Using mixed methods and participatory approaches, the study generated actionable intelligence on population needs, service gaps and community assets, supporting equitable resource allocation and place-based planning.
The work directly supports Sláintecare objectives related to population health planning, integrated care and addressing health inequalities.
PI: Professor Catherine Darker
Research Team: Professor Noel McCarthy, Ms Kaye Stapleton and Dr David Loughrey
Collaborators: HSE (Health Intelligence Unit, Public Health and Health & Wellbeing), Tallaght University Hospital, the Childhood Development Initiative, South Dublin County Council and South Dublin County Partnership
Funding: HSE Dublin & Midlands (formerly CHO7) & the Adelaide Health Foundation
Objective:
To inform local health service and community planning through robust, equity-focused assessment of population needs and assets.
Key components:
- Mixed-methods analysis of health needs and service provision
- Community and stakeholder engagement across sectors
- Translation of findings into planning-relevant outputs
Impact:
Evidence to support equitable, place-based health service planning aligned with Sláintecare and national population health priorities.
HANA 3 summary and recommendations
Rounds 1 and 2
In 2001 and 2014, the HANA Project carried out surveys of health and wellbeing in 13 electoral divisions of Tallaght. We looked at topics including demographics, health status, chronic illness, physical activity, use of healthcare and community services and amenities in Tallaght.
We invited primary carers to share their thoughts. Letters were sent to randomly selected households, leading to the participation of 420 households representing over 1,000 individuals.
Community Benefits from Previous Rounds
The impact of Rounds 1 and 2 recommendations has been significant, resulting in many new and improved healthcare services for Tallaght.
- Community Radiology Unit in Tallaght Cross: A new radiology unit has been set up in Tallaght Cross. This unit provides services like x-rays, ultrasounds, DEXA scans, CT, and MRI, making healthcare more accessible for everyone.
- TLC 'Out-of-Hours' Doctors' Services: Doctors have extended their hours and enhanced access through the TLC 'out-of-hours' service. This means you can get better healthcare, even outside regular hours.
- Funding for Local Sports Partnerships: Thanks to funding from Healthy Ireland, South Dublin County Council is supporting local sports partnerships, supporting active lifestyles in our community.
- ExWell Medical: ExWell Medical was set up to offer supervised exercise classes designed for those with long-term illnesses. It is making a real difference in the health of those that take part.
- Health Facilities at Tallaght University Hospital (TUH): Health needs were identified, leading to new facilities at TUH. This includes Psychiatry, Cardiology, Disability Memory services, and extra staff for Chronic Disease Management and Acute Frailty Units – designed with your care in mind.
- Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons (ICPOP): ICPOP at TUH started in 2016, focuses on managing care for older individuals with complex needs. This ensures a complete approach to healthcare.
Resources bar
Tallaght Health and Community Services List
Tallaght Health and Community Services Interactive Map
Research partners
If you have any concerns or questions, you can contact:
Principal Investigator: Prof Catherine Darker. Email: catherine.darker@tcd.ie
Data Protection Officer, Secretary’s Office, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland. Email: dataprotection@tcd.ie. Website: www.dataprotection.ie
Under GDPR, if you are not satisfied with how your data is being processed, you have the right to raise a concern with the Office of the Data Protection Commission, 21 Fitzwilliam Square South, Dublin 2, Ireland. Website: www.dataprotection.ie
Contact Us
Contact details for more information:
If you have any concerns or questions, you can contact:
Principal Investigator: Prof Catherine Darker. Email: catherine.darker@tcd.ie
PI: Jo-Hanna Ivers
Funding: Health Service Executive (HSE)
Dates: 01/2022 – 10/2022
Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a court-based health diversion programme for individuals with problematic drug and alcohol use.
Key Components: This project examined an alternative to prosecution for individuals found in possession of small quantities of drugs. The programme redirects individuals toward health services rather than the criminal justice system. It reflects a shift toward a public health-led response to substance use. The evaluation focuses on feasibility, acceptability, and outcomes.
Research Design: Mixed methods evaluation combining service data analysis with stakeholder perspectives. Examination of programme pathways, engagement, and outcomes. Assessment of implementation processes within a real-world setting. Findings are contextualised within policy and system reform.
Impact: The study provides evidence to inform the expansion of health diversion approaches in Ireland. It supports policy shifts toward treatment-oriented responses to substance use. The findings contribute to reducing criminalisation and improving access to care.
PI: Jo-Hanna Ivers
Funding: Health Service Executive (HSE)
Date: 01/2021 -05/2022
Objective: To develop a sustained model of healthcare for people experiencing homelessness who use drugs, informed by innovations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Components: This project examined how emergency responses during COVID-19 improved access to care for a highly vulnerable population. It captured both policy and practice innovations, alongside lived experience perspectives. The work identified what worked, for whom, and under what conditions. It aimed to translate crisis responses into sustainable models of care.
Research Design: Mixed methods study combining quantitative outcomes with qualitative insights. Analysis of service delivery models implemented during the pandemic. Integration of stakeholder and lived experience perspectives. Development of a protocol for sustained and improved healthcare delivery.
Impact: The project will inform long-term service redesign for people experiencing homelessness who use drugs. It supports the retention of effective harm reduction and access strategies. The findings contribute to more equitable, responsive, and integrated healthcare systems.
PI: Jo-Hanna Ivers
Funding: Health Service Executive (HSE)
Dates: 01/2022 – 01/2023
Objective: To develop, implement, and evaluate a peer-led recovery coaching model for individuals with complex needs.
Key Components: This project establishes a structured, peer-led approach to supporting recovery. It recognises the value of lived experience in engaging and supporting individuals with complex needs. The model focuses on practical support, goal setting, and sustained engagement. It is designed for integration within existing services.
Research Design: Two-phase study including programme development and evaluation. Identification of process and outcome measures to assess effectiveness. Implementation within real-world service settings. Evaluation of feasibility, acceptability, and impact.
Impact: The project provides a scalable model for integrating peer support into addiction services. It strengthens recovery-oriented systems of care and enhances engagement with hard-to-reach populations. The findings support service innovation and workforce development.
PI: Jo-Hanna Ivers
Funding: Trinity College Dublin
Dates: 07/2019 – 2022
Objective: To examine neurocognitive functioning across the spectrum of opioid dependence and recovery.
Key Components: This international study investigated cognitive functioning in individuals from detoxification through to long-term recovery. It captured variation across different stages of recovery and across diverse populations. The dataset is unique in its scope and international reach. The work sits at the intersection of neuroscience and addiction.
Research Design: Cross-national data collection using a standardised neurocognitive assessment battery. Inclusion of participants across multiple stages of recovery. Comparative analysis across countries and recovery trajectories. Integration of findings within a bio psycho social framework.
Impact: The study advances understanding of the neurocognitive dimensions of addiction and recovery. It informs treatment approaches that account for cognitive functioning. The findings contribute to more personalised and effective care pathways.
PI: Jo-Hanna Ivers
Funding: Genio Reform Funding
Dates: 03/2021 – 08/2021
Objective: To explore barriers to addiction treatment for women in disadvantaged communities.
Key Components: This project examined gender-specific barriers to accessing addiction services. It focused on women in disadvantaged contexts, where structural and social inequalities are pronounced. The work highlights the intersection of gender, stigma, and service access. It foregrounded the need for tailored responses.
Research Design: Qualitative exploration of lived experiences and service access barriers. Engagement with women and service providers. Thematic analysis to identify structural and systemic challenges. Findings are contextualised within broader health inequalities.
Impact: The project informs the development of gender-sensitive addiction services. The study supports more inclusive and equitable access to treatment. The findings contribute to policy and service design that better meets the needs of women.