After 15 years of support from Horizons, Benóg Brady Bates has stepped into a new chapter of his life, living independently in his own home. His journey is not only a personal achievement; it is a shining example of what can be done through collaboration, rights-based approaches, and unwavering belief in the voices of the people we support.
“It’s taken some time for me to get to this point,” Benóg shared. “I’ve lived at home, and I’ve lived with others. Every experience taught me something, what I like, what I don’t. But most importantly, I learned about myself. Now, living alone, I have the freedom to do what I want. I love going out, traveling and exploring new places. There are still so many goals I want to achieve.”
A Collaborative and Rights-Based Approach
Benóg’s move into his own place was rooted in the principles of Article 19 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and informed by the Homes West model, often described as the “Choreography of the Dance of Life.” These frameworks guided the partnership between Benóg, his family, and Horizons’ staff. At every stage, the focus remained on co-creating a path that honoured Benóg’s choices, autonomy and aspirations.
Staff across multiple departments which included; Community Hub teams’ Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT); Advocacy; Social Work; Ability@Work and auxiliary services, worked together with Benóg and his family. This flexible, person-centred approach enabled strong relationships built on trust, honesty and respect. It also laid the foundation for Benóg’s successful application for social housing, supported by Horizons’ social workers in collaboration with Cork City Council.
Pictured L-R: Mary Brady Bates, Benóg Brady Bates and Molly O’Keeffe
Photo credit: Aoife O’Connell
Voices from the Journey
“It was amazing to walk alongside Benóg as he gained valuable life experience in independent housing,” said staff members Niamh O’Mahony and Mark Connolly from Horizons’ Pope’s Quay Community Hub. “From keeping his house clean to paying bills, he was eager to learn and live life on his own terms. We learned that with the right support, every individual can live a life of their choosing. Benóg has led the way, and we’re still here for him, even if it’s just for a coffee!”
Benóg’s mother, Mary Brady Bates, echoed this sentiment:
“Staff from all across the organisation, Care Assistants, Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, and more, each played a role. This was a pilot programme, and there was a lot of learning along the way. Benóg’s family don’t live in Cork, so it was crucial he had a strong local support network. What’s needed now is continued support from a social perspective. The disability sector is challenging, but the rewards are powerful. Benóg’s apartment reflects his personality; it’s his space, his home. I couldn’t be prouder of him.”
Planning for the Future with PATH
Horizons continues to support Benóg in planning his next steps, using the PATH (Planning Alternative Tomorrows with Hope) tool, an innovative, person-centred planning approach developed by the late John O’Brien and recognised in HSE’s New Directions framework.
Molly O’Keeffe Horizons Project Lead for De-congregation added, “Benóg’s story shows what’s possible when individuals are empowered and supported to take the lead in their own lives. It’s been an honour for our teams to walk with Benóg on this journey.”
Looking Ahead
Benóg’s journey to independent living is a powerful reminder that with the right supports, respect for individual choice, and meaningful collaboration, people with disabilities can live the lives they choose, on their own terms, in their own communities.
As Benóg put it best:
“What I’ve learned throughout this process is that you have to stand up and push for what you want. If you don’t, you won’t get to where you want to be.