Our Vision

Our vision is an inclusive Ireland where people with an intellectual disability are supported to live and participate as an equal member within the community.

Our Mission

Our mission is to champion the rights of people with an intellectual disability in Ireland through securing the full implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD).

We will have achieved this mission when people with an intellectual disability have their voices heard, are not isolated or segregated and can lead to more independent and healthier lives.

Our Values

The work of Inclusion Ireland is underpinned by the values of dignity, inclusion, social justice, democracy, and autonomy.


  • We are Inclusive. People with an intellectual disability are at the heart of everything we do.
  • We are Informed. Our work is informed by our members’ views and life experiences and by research.
  • We are Supportive. We support our members to take part in decisions that are about them.
  • We are Rights-based. We champion the human rights of people with an intellectual disability.
  • We are Outspoken. We campaign for change when we see things that are not fair.
  • We are Collaborative. We work in partnership with others to build a more inclusive Ireland.

Our History

Inclusion Ireland – The National Association for People with an Intellectual Disability – is a national voluntary organisation working to promote the rights of people with an intellectual disability in Ireland to ensure their full and equal participation in society.

Inclusion Ireland was founded in 1961 as the ‘National Association for the Mentally Handicapped of Ireland’ and became widely known as NAMHI. Since December 2005 NAMHI has become Inclusion Ireland – National Association for People with an Intellectual Disability.

The organisation was the co-ordinating body for many member organisations, the service providers and parent and friends’ groups, providing services and support to children and adults with an intellectual disability in Ireland.

From the beginning NAMHI, now Inclusion Ireland has campaigned with local groups and nationally, for inclusive education, community-based services and housing, support for families and full participation and equality for people with an intellectual disability.

How We are Run

  • Inclusion Ireland complies with the Governance Code for Charity Organisations as set out by the Charity Regulator in Ireland.
  • Inclusion Ireland has a CEO and Board of Directors who make sure that we work in accordance with our values and strategic plan.

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