The Core organisational values are:
- Fullness of life – Every person deserves to live life with dignity and independence.
- Quality – Assistance Dogs N.I is working towards membership of Assistance Dogs (UK).
- Affordability – ADNI will always own the dog, which we provide FREE OF CHARGE to those who meet our criteria. However, following placement, the recipient of a qualified dog will be responsible for all the associated costs in caring for the Assistance Dog such as veterinary bills, food, worming and working dog insurance.
We are committed to treating every potential applicant equally. Due to the sheer volume of individuals applying for Assistance Dogs, we must be realistic about the number of individuals we can help. We receive no government funding, we rely on donations, fundraising and grants some of which have age restrictions that impact on our ability to meet the needs of certain age groups.
RATIONALE
21% of adults in Northern Ireland, and 6% of children have been diagnosed with one or more disabilities.
ADNI believes there is a gap in the provision of Assistance Dogs for these individuals within Northern Ireland, and hope to help as many people as possible.
Assistance Dogs provide independence and dignity for people with disabilities and can greatly increase quality of life and promote wellbeing.
Board Members
- Patricia Whyte, Chairperson
- Helen McKenna, Vice Chairperson/Treasurer
- Annie Barfoot
- Melanie Fitzpatrick
- Dr Claire McDowell
- Jean Bishop-Greentree
