12/11/2023

Equipping the I-RES team with disability awareness training

Irish Residential Properties REIT plc ("I•RES" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has been recognised as a Best Practice Leader in the European Women on Boards ("EWOB") Gender Equality Index.

We are delighted to be rolling out disability awareness training to all I-RES staff, in partnership with Ability Focus, a leading Irish provider. The programme aims to equip everyone at I-RES, starting with our frontline teams, with practical knowledge and skills to support people in our community.

Speaking about the training, Managing Director of Ability Focus Stephen Kelly said, “1 in 7 people living in Ireland has a recognised disability. At Ability Focus our mission is to increase awareness of Ireland's most diverse group through a contemporary approach to disability awareness training. We are delighted to be working with the I-RES team in strengthening their services, enhancing the team’s understanding of disability and the ways the business can support its residents in their homes.”
 
Research shows that some 70% of disabilities are non-visual, and that many people acquire their disability in adult life. This training aims to increase our confidence and expertise when engaging with colleagues, residents and members of the public with disabilities. 
 
Across the 4,000 homes that I-RES provides, we serve a hugely diverse range of residents, and their wellbeing is at the heart of what we do. These sessions are part of our ongoing investment in the development of our people and our commitment to diversity & inclusion. Read more about how our commitment to operating responsibly in our ESG report