info@sbhi.ie 
+353 (0)1 457 2329 
This programme provides you with the skills and knowledge to search for education, training and employment opportunities by providing you with short achievable online and in person workshops covering a range of topics to get you ready for employment, upskilling or further education. Taking part in the programme will give you a fantastic opportunity to tackle the barriers you have been facing in these areas ‘help find solutions, build your confidence and provide you with a safe supportive environment where you can work to achieve your goals. (Mary Aylward, Peer Mentor)
“Myself & mum have met up with her & I started a course two weeks ago on digital media that I am really interested in. Zoe thought that the course on Digital media would be a great start for me on my career path. I’d be totally losted without her. She enabling me to make my dreams come true”. (Andrew Mullin WWFM participant)
”I found the support from the What Works for Me team through SBHI amazing. There is always someone at the end of the phone to answer any questions or concerns i may have . I would encourage everyone to join and be part of such a great support system.” (Rachel Mc Carthy, Cork WWFM participant)
”Hi everyone, I’m Claire. I began working with SBHI in 2023. I have been able to apply my background in social care to the work I carryout here to support all SBHI members. I oversee the running of the What Works for Me programme and support the team with their many activities to help you identify and move closer to your upskilling, education and employment goals.
I also work within SBHI to support children and their families with school transitions and concerns. I deliver our Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus awareness session to school staff teams and SNA training courses.”
cmccormack@sbhi.ie / 087- 136 4532
”I started working with Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Ireland in February 2025. Before this I was a member from the age of two and have enjoyed many opportunities and experiences within the organisation over the years.
I became the Peer mentor because I want to empower those with Spina Bifida and/or Hydrocephalus to overcome the challenges and fears that can prevent us from achieving our goals and fulfilling our potential. I have overcome many of these challenges myself and I hope I can support you to overcome them too. If you would like my support, please feel free to contact me.”
maylward@sbhi.ie / 087- 190 8095
Hi I’m Zoe, I joined SBHI in May 2024, previous to that I have worked in Adult Education as a tutor for various Education and Training Boards and more recently with the National Learning Network. I am passionate about adult education and helping people to realise their potential, setting goals and working to achieve them.
In my role as Education and Learning Co-ordinator I assist members engaging in employment skills training, I play an integral role in Education co-ordination and development of SBHIS What Works for Me programme. I deliver NALA training to SBHI members. I help members who are deciding on further education options and support them through that journey.
zcole@sbhi.ie / 087 – 348 3268
I have been working with SBHI since Sept 2023. I have over 5 years’ experience in my previous roles with EmployAbility Midlands and Laois Volunteer Centre, working in supported employment, volunteering and training with people who face challenges getting into work
Most of that time, I’ve supported people with disabilities to figure out what kind of job might suit them, helped them build their confidence, and supported them through each step of the way.
Seeing someone grow in confidence, apply for jobs they didn’t think they could do, and feel proud of themselves—that’s the part I love most.
As Employment Facilitator on the What Works for Me Programme, I support SBHI members who want to move closer to employment. We try to identify volunteer and job opportunities, job shadow days, workplace visits that match programme participants strengths, skills and interests. I also work closely with employers to help them understand how to be more inclusive and accessible and make the workplace a better fit for everyone.
kchadwick@sbhi.ie / 087 – 188 9941
Check our recordings of our previous Webinars created for the What Works For Me Programme
Zoe can help you with learning new skills such as:
driver theory, money management, independent travel skills, Learning to read, write or tell time, Healthy eating habits, Healthy lifestyle habits.
As your peer mentor I can help to boost your self-confidence and self-esteem and promote a positive mindset.
How? By discussing your concerns and supporting you to overcome them with the help of my colleagues on the what works for me team.
You don’t need to be job-ready to work with me. We can take things one step at a time. I’ll support you in a way that works for you.
You can work with me one-to-one. I’ll meet you where you’re at and go at your pace.
Here are some of the ways I can help:
This programme is only made possible though the valuable contributions of the European Social Fund, Pobal and the Government of Ireland under the WorkAbility: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme. You can find more information on the EU Funds website