Health & Wellbeing Shortlist 2025

Michelle has been volunteering for more than two years and is the Vice Secretary on the board of Waterford Disability Network. She has consistently demonstrated outstanding dedication and leadership as a volunteer administrator for WDN. Her strong organizational skills ensure that daily operations run smoothly, from coordinating volunteer schedules to managing client appointments with precision and care. Michelle’s ability to engage with clients with disabilities is especially noteworthy. She approaches every interaction with empathy, patience, and genuine respect. She helps clients feel heard and understood, which builds trust and fosters meaningful connections. Whether assisting someone with mobility challenges or supporting individuals with sensory or cognitive disabilities, Michelle adapts her approach to meet each person’s unique needs.  Her presence at meetings is both reassuring and empowering to clients, often bridging the gap between services and individuals who may otherwise feel overlooked. She is not only an excellent administrator but also a compassionate advocate for accessibility and inclusion. Her nominator writes: “Our organisation is profoundly better for her presence, and we are endlessly grateful for everything she continues to bring.” 

Damien is the President of The Psychological Society of Ireland which means directly supporting 11 staff members, guiding a 20-person Council, and representing over 5,000 members of the PSI. He provides clarity in decision-making, stability in day-to-day operations, and consistent encouragement. This sense of security and shared mission is one of the most tangible legacies of his leadership.

What has distinguished Damien’s contribution most clearly is his vision for advancing mental health care and disability services in Ireland. While still working full-time, he has consistently framed the Society’s work around person-centred, human rights-based, and recovery-oriented principles. In doing so, he has not only advocated for the profession of psychology but has also championed the rights and dignity of the people who use mental health and disability services in Ireland. Perhaps the achievement that best illustrates Damien’s collaborative approach is the purchase of the Old Distillery Building in Smithfield, Dublin. The acquisition provides the organisation with stability and a space that can grow with it, and it stands as a lasting legacy realised through listening, facilitation, and shared effort.

Patrick volunteers on the Board of Management but fills all sorts of needs for The Thomas Hayes Trust, also known as Teac Tom, anytime one comes up. As an organisation that engages with people facing mental illness and provides suicide intervention, they provide a safe space for people who need connection. Patrick’s lived experience of addiction gives him insight into the challenges that many face and allows him to speak truthfully to the service users about what is possible.

At fundraising events or at the Cafe, Patrick is often the first to arrive & the last to leave.  A stranger who might be silently battling their own demons will pause, speak to him and leave with something money can’t buy: hope. Patrick listens without judgement, he speaks with authenticity and he shows people that recovery is possible. “We have had people contact our service directly after meeting him, saying that it was Patrick’s story and kindness that gave them the courage to reach out” writes his nominator.