At the Wayfinding Centre, we often speak of systems, design standards, policy reform and innovation. But in truth, the most powerful lever in reducing Ireland’s transport accessibility gap is not a policy document or a funding initiative. It’s a single individual — a person who cannot currently take a transport journey on their own — but whose insight, courage and persistence bring us closer to that reality for everyone.
Patricia is one such person.
Since the very beginning of the Wayfinding Centre, Patricia has been a constant source of insight. As a member of our Inclusion Access Advisory Group (IAAG), she has shown how someone with lived experience — someone who continues to face immense challenges in transport access — can shape policy, research, and design in ways professionals alone cannot.
Her story reflects the reality behind the numbers. According to the 2022 Census, 22% of the Irish population live with a disability, yet only 6% use public transport daily. It’s a stark statistic — one Patricia has lived and challenged every day. From co-developing case studies and shaping accessibility content for the Transport for Ireland website, to participating in paid research simulations with Dublin Fire Brigade, Patricia’s voice has brought vital visibility to systemic gaps and practical solutions.
But the impact is mutual. In her words, the experience has helped her feel "seen, valued, and heard" — not just as a service user, but as a driver of change. Occupational engagement, empowerment, and social inclusion are no longer concepts discussed in boardrooms — they are Patricia’s lived reality, and ours.
Her participation exemplifies social role valorisation at its best: where barriers begin to fall not because of grand designs, but because one person is given the platform to speak, and more importantly, to be listened to.
This collaboration — between Patricia, her occupational therapist, and the team at the Wayfinding Centre — is a working model of what co-design truly looks like. It’s a reminder to all of us working in accessibility that the most important stakeholders are not always the loudest voices at the table, but often the ones who simply needed a seat.
As we look to the future of inclusive transport in Ireland, let us remember that opening doors starts by listening to the people who still can’t get through them.
This collaborative initiative has also been deeply shaped by the insights and dedication of Tracey Kilpatrick, Senior Occupational Therapist at Peamount Healthcare, who has supported the service user throughout their journey.
“Seeing the service user I support take on meaningful roles as an advocate, research participant, and contributor to accessibility initiatives has been both inspiring and a testament to the importance of collaborative, community-based projects. This work not only enhances accessibility but also promotes dignity, autonomy, and social inclusion.”
— Tracey Kilpatrick, Senior Occupational Therapist, Peamount Healthcare
Tracey’s reflection highlights the essential role that allied health professionals play in enabling meaningful engagement beyond the clinical setting. Her support has been instrumental in building a bridge between health services and the broader accessibility landscape — ensuring that participation is not only possible but powerful.
A wheelchair user for all of her 58 years, Patricia has long faced the frustration of inaccessible transport and built environments. From narrow doorways and missing ramps to unreliable wheelchair taxis and inaccessible public toilets, her journey is a testament to both the progress made and the gaps that remain.
“I always need to have done my homework to know whether places will be accessible for me and my circumstances… There isn’t just one person in a wheelchair in the world—there are loads of us.”
Her involvement with the Wayfinding Centre through the IAAG has led to paid research roles, representation in national transport campaigns, and a case study that captures the daily obstacles she faces. Despite being unable to travel independently, Patricia has shaped the transport accessibility landscape with her insight, highlighting the truth that the most impactful contributions often come from those most excluded.
Patricia’s voice is not just heard—it’s creating change. Her experience challenges us all to design systems that don’t just work for most but work for all.
