Our Work

Complementary Therapies

Many sisters today engage in complementary therapy work. This is a more holistic approach to health-care, in that it integrates body, mind and soul, bringing about relaxation and healing.

By their very nature they complement, and are more person centred. The medical model can at times lead away from this ideal through its fragmentation on many levels.

Biodynamic massage, aromatherapy, Indian head, reflexology, reiki, and chiropathy are among the complementary therapies offered. These promote general health and well being, regulating stress and helping people feel more fully alive.

A Health Care Commission was established in the province in 2001, primarily to affirm, support and acknowledge the contribution of those involved in Health Care. The group also wish to work towards greater integration of mainstream and complementary health care in the future.

Addiction Treatment

The treatment of people with alcohol, drug, and other addictions has been a work of the province for many years. Residential centres in Tabor Lodge Aiseiri Cahir, and Aiseiri Wexford, and a day care centre in Anchor House Mallow Co. Cork cater for adults. In the late 1990s, Aislinn in Co. Kilkenny was set up to cater exclusively for young people.

Residential aftercare programmes are also offered. Fellowship House for men and Renewal for women were established by the Board of Directors of Tabor Lodge, in response to a need for a residential supportive environment for those in the early stages of recovery from addiction.

Working with Asylum Seekers

Over the last few years many people have come to Ireland seeking asylum. A number of sisters are involved in running an English language centre in Cork City. Operating in a mostly voluntary way, with a little government funding, the centre offers English classes on a daily basis. Those attending come from many parts of the globe and find in the centre a warm welcome as well as an opportunity to learn the basics of the English language.

Some of the volunteers also go to one of the accommodation places in the city. There they offer a similar service to those who cannot travel to the classes.