Enhanced travel experience for passengers with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) travelling from Cork Airport

Pictured at Cork Airport as Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland initiated specialist training for airport security staff were, l-r: Victoria Spillane and Amy Kelly, both Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland, with Jean Alexander; Brendan Boylan and Martina Blake of Cork Airport.

Cork Airport has collaborated with Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland (CCI), to significantly improve the travel experience for passengers living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including those with stoma bags. It’s the first airport to receive specialist training for airport security staff.

With this partnership, Cork Airport’s Search Unit team members will undergo comprehensive training provided by CCI, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to handle the unique needs of passengers with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Following the 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.

Traveling with Inflammatory Bowel Disease can be daunting for passengers, and following this programme of training and support, airport security staff will continue to offer their famous a smooth experience.

ENHANCED TRAVEL MEASURES

Passengers with IBD will now have an easier travel experience in Cork. Private search facilities will be offered for passengers travelling with stoma bags and those travelling with the Crohn’s and Colitis Ireland ‘No Wait’ cards (in multiple languages), will be accepted to help passengers access facilities quickly.

Also, the new collaboration will ensure that passengers can carry their medication and medical supplies without hinderance. Staff will also offer guidance on managing travel-related challenges, such as locating the nearest toilet should the passenger be in an urgent situation, and medication storage.

‘POSITIVE’ RESPONSE

Amy Kelly, COO of Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland 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,” she said.

“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.”