Specific support needs
We have a range of supports to help patients with specific needs.
Mobility needs
Access
All of our main hospital entrances are wheelchair accessible. Lifts are available to all public access levels in the three main wings of the hospital - the Whitty Wing, the McGiveny Wing and the Misericordiae Wing. The listed buildings have limited disability access. This includes some of the services located out on Eccles Street. If you are attending these areas, please contact us in advance so that we can accomodate you.
Wheelchairs
Coin-operated wheelchairs, which take a one euro coin, are available at these locations:
- The Whitty entrance on the North Circular Road, which is the main hospital entrance
- The underground car park, on Levels Minus 1 and Minus 2
If you can't find a wheelchair, please ask staff at the Whitty Wing reception for help. The reception is located just inside the Whitty entrance on the North Circular Road.
Parking
There are disabled parking spaces available in the underground car park and on both Eccles Street and North Circular Road. You must display a disabled person parking permit card in the vehicle. See our hosptial parking page for more information.
Wheelchair assistance
We can arrange you for someone to help you with your wheelchair if necessary. Please contact the ward or department you are attending before your visit.
Hearing impairments
Interpreters
Where possible, we provide sign language interpreters and lip readers. If you need an interpreter, please contact the ward or department staff and we will arrange one for you. The interpreter is completely independent and will not offer advice or guidance.
It is hospital policy that family members and friends of the patient can't act as their interpreters, except in exceptional circumstances.
Most departments provide an email address within our contact directory. If you are having difficulty getting in touch, email accessofficer@mater.ie.
Hearing loops
Hearing loops are available in key locations around the hospital, wherever you see the hearing loop symbol.
Extra help
We can also support you by:
- Texting appointments to you
- Providing you with emergency visual alarms
- Recording your special requirements on our hospital information system
Visual impairments
Guide dogs
Assistance dogs are allowed in most areas of the hospital. Please phone the relevant ward or department before coming to the hospital to confirm, as some areas may be restricted for hygiene reasons.