Cork Airport is the first airport in Ireland to collaborate with Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland to provide dedicated training for security staff in assisting passengers diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease. The initiative aims to significantly improve the travel experience for passengers living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including those with stoma bags.
Cork ASU and Airport Resource Planning Manager Sue Crowley, said “At Cork Airport, our primary focus is to ensure that all our passengers have a safe and pleasant airport experience. By having this opportunity to work with Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland, our passenger security teams will benefit from expert training and guidance on how to assist passengers with inflammatory bowel disease. We’re very proud to be the first airport in Ireland to work with Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland (CCI) to ensure our staff continue to offer a compliant, compassionate, and customer-friendly service.”
Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland COO Amy Kelly, said “Our members have brought to our attention the challenges they face when traveling, particularly in airport settings, due to a lack of training among staff regarding stoma bags and the unique needs of passengers with inflammatory bowel disease. When we approached Cork Airport, we were met with a positive and immediate response. It is incredibly encouraging to see how quickly they have worked with us to enhance their staff training, and we are proud to partner with Cork Airport to improve the travel experience for passengers with stomas. This collaboration demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that all passengers, no matter their health condition, are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”
The partnership enables, Cork Airport’s Search Unit team members to undergo comprehensive training provided by CCI. The training will equip staff with the knowledge and skills to handle the unique needs of passengers with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.
Post training, airport security staff will be educated on the challenges faced by passengers with IBD; best practices for handling medical supplies and stoma bags and effective communication techniques to ensure a respectful and supportive environment.
Image Credit: Cork Airport
Irish Aviation Research Institute © 15 December 2024 All Rights Reserved
