Team Meet & Greet: Ann
Ann / Manager, Rialto Day Care Centre
We recently caught up with Ann, the manager of Rialto Day Care Centre - read further to learn more about her role here!
Tell us a bit about yourself - What’s your role at St Andrew’s, and which project are you involved with?
I’m Ann Byrne, and since October 2015 I’ve been the manager of Rialto Day Care Centre.
Can you give us an overview of what your project does within the centre (e.g. RCDT, RYP, RDA, etc.)?
The stated purpose of Rialto Day Care Centre is to allow the older persons of Rialto and the wider community to maintain their dignity and independence after a lifetime of contribution to society.
The service aims to combat isolation and loneliness among older people, and to provide opportunities for mental and physical stimulation. Our activities are person-centred, offered in a welcoming and friendly manner, and in suitable surroundings. Art, Bingo, Karaoke, Sing-along, Chair Yoga, Quizes are all popular activities. We also provide a daily hot meal, access to shower facilities including assistance to shower, and access to transport to get to/from the centre. A hairdresser provides a service for two days each week. We collect prescriptions etc. for clients with no other way to collect, and we also help with basic shopping. We also prepare and deliver meals as the Meals on Wheels service for the area.
What have been some recent highlights or challenges in your role?
Over the last year we have been fundraising to buy a much-needed new minibus, and thanks to the generosity of local people and businesses, along with grant funding, we have succeeded in raising the required funds; we expect to have our new bus on the road in January 2026.
For anyone interested in learning more or getting involved with your project, what’s the best way to get in touch?
For anyone wishing to avail of our services, referral forms for both day care and meals on wheels can be had by calling 01 4730443, or by emailing rialtodaycare@standrewsrialto.ie.
We offer work experience to people, particularly those studying social care or similar, and we also welcome volunteers. Whilst the work can be challenging, it is also immensely satisfying. We believe our service supports older people in the area to live independently and happily in their own homes for much longer than might otherwise be the case. Pop in and visit us sometime!