Over 25,000 Irish families are living with a child or adult with a physical or intellectual disability today. In recognition of the lack of respite opportunities for both families and children, The Daisychain Foundation was founded by Choice Hotels Ireland CEO, Frankie Whelehan in 2005. Symbolising an unbroken chain of support, the daisychain emblem represents the partnership between the able and disabled to achieve a better quality of life for all involved.

The “Time for You” Respite programme was launched in 2005 by foundation patron, Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, affording an opportunity for 250 families affected by disability to avail of a complimentary 2 night break at a Clarion Hotel, Quality Hotel or Comfort Inn hotel. Owing to the tremendous success of the programme which was facilitated by the NPSA (National Parents and Siblings Alliance), the fund was doubled to 1000 bed nights in 2006, and will continue to grow in years to come. The Foundation is also committed to researching and funding additional methods of respite for Irish families in conjunction with the national service providers with a clear objective in mind.