As we approach the end of another year, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the last twelve months and look forward to a New Year.
2021 proved to be another difficult year for all, bringing more Covid19 challenges. Like all health and social care professionals across Ireland, St. Michael’s House staff teams responded, adjusted and showed compassion, empathy and resilience. I commend all staff for their dedication and their work during these difficult times. I am very proud of how everyone has worked together to keep essential services operating in a landscape that is changing regularly.
Our service users have proved to be just as adaptable and resilient. Our units embraced technology, supported one another, stood together and participated in a calendar of events that promoted learning, fitness, ability and fun!
To all St. Michael’s House families, I thank you for your continued understanding and support to our staff teams on the frontline. It is not always easy to comprehend the change of services for their family member. We will continue to keep you informed by letter and through our website and social media platforms.
I want to thank all St. Michael’s House service users, families, staff and supporters for everything that we have achieved together in 2021.
Looking Ahead to 2022
As is the case for each of us personally, St. Michael's House continues to be challenged by the pandemic, and the changed world that is clearly here to stay for some time. While we all believed that the pandemic would be under control due to an extensive vaccination programme, sadly this appears not to be the case at present. We are all concerned again about the impact on all aspects of our lives. Further to the recent announcement of an mRNA booster vaccine roll out for all individuals in long term residential care facilities and the updated booster wait period guideline, we are cautiously optimistic about 2022. We will continue to work with the HSE locally to manage booster clinics when advised, but would encourage those eligible to attend walk-in clinics as appropriate.
In 2021 we began the development of a new Five-Year Strategic Plan for St. Michael’s House. Once again I want to thank all St. Michael’s House stakeholders for their participation in the progress of this strategy to date. We are working through the feedback from service users, families and staff surveys. I really value all inputs received and look forward to working with you all as we continue working together on this plan in 2022.
Finally, seasons greetings to you, your family and friends. I hope you enjoy a healthy Christmas and New Year.
Liz Reynolds (CEO, St. Michael's House)
Please click below to view a very special Thank You to all St. Michael’s House Staff from some familiar faces.