Chronic Pain Ireland (CPI) - Profile & History

CPI (formerly Irish Chronic Pain Association) was founded in 1992. The aim of the organisation is to provide information and support to those living with chronic pain, their families and friends. In addition CPI campaigns for greater education and understanding within the medical profession of the condition.Historically chronic pain was misunderstood, under-diagnosed and neglected.  Over the years CPI has demonstrated professional leadership in Ireland and throughout Europe by drawing attention to Chronic Pain and promoting new and better methods of dealing with the disease.  Recent years has seen a substantial development of global research, both physiological and psychological, into the mechanisms and effects of chronic pain.  In more recent years there is increasing evidence to consider, study and treat chronic pain as a separate disease entity.

CPI continues to provide support and information to those suffering with chronic pain while working with all the major stakeholders. CPI lobbies for multi-disciplinary treatment centres, improved health services and changes to the educational curriculum so that Healthcare Professionals are more aware of the condition, the challenges of diagnosing, treating and managing the condition.

CPI provides a range of services including, information meetings, guest speaker events, awareness campaigns and self-management workshops which are held nationwide. In addition the organisation produces a quality newsletter and provides telephone and website support. The website will be the main communications tool enabling our members, healthcare professionals and members of the public access a range of material, information and support relevant to the condition of Chronic Pain. It will be the first port of call for many suffering from chronic pain and will provide information and support as well as papers on the most up to date research worldwide

CPI receives no funding from the HSE and is reliant on the corporate sector and the public generally for support to enable it to continue its important work. CPI gratefully acknowledges funding received by way of a grant from The Department of Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs, (CRAGA) for 2008-2011 to provide office support. The support of the Pharmaceutical sector and in particular the significant support received from Mundipharma and Pfizer Healthcare is greatly appreciated.

CPI is run by a Committee of volunteers, most of whom suffer from chronic pain.  The organisation employs an office administrator who manages the day to day workings of the organisation and also provides telephone support for its members.

Commendations
The sole patron of CPI is President of Ireland, Mary McAleese who stated "I was delighted when asked to become sole patron of  CPI  See the letter here.

" CPI deserves support in its continuing campaign to draw attention to the huge needs of those suffering from chronic pain..." - Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. See the letter here.