Connecting lived experience, research and practice to shape the future of respite and short breaks.
Choose your conference registration rate
Available until 31 March 2027
Available from 1 April 2027
Use code STUDENT25 when registering.
€300 from 1 April 2027
For enquiries about the conference, including registration, abstract submissions or accommodation, please contact Abbey Conferences at isba2027@abbeyconferences.com
Creating Pathways Through Respite. Respite as a catalyst for independence, education, employment and community life, with a focus on expanding choice, flexibility and person‑centred, family‑led approaches across the life course.
Belonging, Participation & Rights. Exploring inclusive respite for people with complex needs, promoting equality, diversity and cultural inclusion, and strengthening partnerships with people who use respite and their families
Reimagining Respite. Examining new and emerging respite models, technology‑enabled supports and creative, community‑based approaches, informed by learning from international best practice
Building Sustainable, High‑Quality Systems. Focusing on governance, accountability and quality standards, workforce development, funding and commissioning, regulation, safeguarding and continuous improvement.
Stronger Voices, Stronger Systems. Advancing the right to respite through partnership, strengthening collaboration between families, providers and policymakers, and connecting policy, practice and lived experience.
ISBA 2027 will take place at the University of Galway, a leading Irish university located in the heart of Galway city on Ireland’s west coast.
Founded in 1845, the University of Galway has a long and distinguished academic tradition. Today, it is home to over 19,000 students and 3,000 staff, including a vibrant community of more than 3,000 international students from over 100 countries. The diverse and dynamic environment provides an ideal setting for an international conference.
The campus offers modern conference facilities and excellent accessibility. The main venue, Bailey Allen Hall, is within a 15‑minute walk of Galway city centre and close to on‑campus accommodation.
Sustainability is central to the University of Galway’s mission. As an SDG Ambassador, the university is committed to environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and economically sustainable events, aligning strongly with ISBA values.
Dunlin Village (Bed & Breakfast)
Dunlin Village is a stylish, convenient and affordable option for conference delegates. It is located a 20–25 minute walk from the conference venue, and shuttle buses will be provided.
Dunlin Village offers 76 apartments grouped around a landscaped courtyard. Each apartment includes four, five or six en-suite bedrooms with a shared, fully equipped kitchen/living area.
Your stay is provided on a Bed & Breakfast basis (breakfast included).
Facilities include complimentary Wi‑Fi, a 24-hour reception, self-service launderette and bicycle storage.
Situated along the Wild Atlantic Way, Galway Bay and Connemara are also nearby.
Travel by air
Delegates can plan their journey through Dublin Airport, Shannon Airport or Ireland West Airport Knock. Check onward connections to Galway before booking your flights.
From Dublin Airport – Coach
Citylink operates coach services between Dublin Airport and Galway. View timetables and book with Citylink
From Dublin City – Train
Irish Rail operates trains from Dublin Heuston station to Galway. If arriving at Dublin Airport, allow time to travel to Heuston station. View timetables and book with Irish Rail
From Shannon Airport – Coach
Check available coach connections from Shannon Airport to Galway for your travel date. Plan your journey with Transport for Ireland
From Ireland West Airport Knock — bus
Expressway Route 64 connects Ireland West Airport Knock with Galway. View Route 64 timetables
Planning your journey
Check current timetables, fares and luggage arrangements with your transport provider. If you require accessible transport, contact the operator before booking.
Galway is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city steeped in culture, rich in folklore and famous for its cobble-stoned streets, quaint shops and charming restaurants.
Home to the world renowned Druid Theatre Company, Macnas Street Theatre Company and An Taibhdhearc and with an array of vibrant festivals, there is much to do in this wonderful city.
In addition, the surrounding landscape leaves one breathless, from the prehistoric fort of Dun Aengus, the most westerly point in Europe, to the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and the Burren.
Travel documents
Check that you have valid travel documents for entry to Ireland. EU citizens may travel with a valid passport or national identity card. Confirm your airline’s identification requirements before travelling.
Check whether you need a visa
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and circumstances. Check the requirements well in advance through the Irish Immigration Service or your local Irish Embassy or Consulate.
Request a conference support letter
If you require a conference support letter for your visa application:
Complete your conference registration and full payment.
Request a Visa Assist Letter during registration.
For assistance, contact Abbey Conferences at isba2027@abbeyconferences.com
Conference registration must be paid in advance. Payment cannot be accepted on arrival.
Apply early
Allow plenty of time for your visa application. Processing times vary depending on the visa office and your circumstances. Check current guidance before making travel arrangements.
How to apply
Follow the official Conference/Event visa guidance, which explains how to apply through AVATS and which supporting documents are required.
After completing the online application, follow the instructions on your application summary for submitting documents to the relevant Irish Embassy, Consulate or Visa Office.
Electricity
Ireland uses a 230-volt electricity supply and three-pin Type G plugs. Bring a suitable adaptor if your devices use a different plug, and check that they support this voltage.
Driving in Ireland
Traffic drives on the left. If you plan to hire a car, check driving licence requirements, insurance and local road rules before travelling.
Insurance
Delegates are strongly advised to arrange travel insurance covering medical expenses, cancellation, travel disruption, accidents and personal belongings.
If you hold a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), bring it with you. An EHIC does not replace travel insurance.
The conference cancellation policy applies if you need to cancel your registration.
Language
Ireland’s official languages are English and Irish. The conference will be conducted in English.
Currency & payments
The currency in the Republic of Ireland is the euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash may be useful for smaller purchases.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in enclosed workplaces and public venues. Follow the smoking policy at your accommodation and the conference venue, and use designated outdoor areas where provided.
VAT refunds
Eligible visitors resident outside the EU may be able to claim a VAT refund on qualifying purchases. Ask participating retailers about the scheme when shopping.
Time zone
During the conference in June, Ireland will be on Irish Standard Time (UTC+1).
Tipping
Tipping is optional. If you wish to recognise good service, check whether a service charge has already been included in your bill.
Weather & what to pack
Galway’s weather can change quickly, even in June. Bring layers, comfortable walking shoes and a light waterproof jacket for cooler temperatures and rain.
Ability West is proud to host ISBA 2027 in Galway, bringing together international perspectives on respite and short breaks.
Supporting children and adults with intellectual disabilities and autism across Galway city and county, Ability West works alongside individuals, families and communities to promote choice, inclusion and participation. www.abilitywest.ie
