Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland (CCI) is pleased to announce a new collaboration with Cork Airport to enhance the travel experience for passengers living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). This marks the first time an Irish airport has partnered with CCI to provide specialised training for airport security staff, specifically aimed at assisting passengers with Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, and stoma bags.

Addressing Member Concerns

Over the past year, several members of CCI brought to our attention the difficulties they face when travelling, particularly at airports, due to the lack of staff awareness and training on how to handle medical supplies such as stoma bags and the unique needs of those living with IBD. We raised these concerns with Cork Airport, and we are thrilled to report that they responded swiftly and positively. Through this partnership, Cork Airport’s Search Unit team started to receive comprehensive training in November provided by CCI, ensuring that staff are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to support passengers with IBD effectively.

What the Training Covers

The training will cover a variety of critical topics, including:

• Best practices for handling medical supplies and stoma bags.
• Techniques for ensuring respectful and effective communication with passengers living with IBD.
• Awareness of the challenges that passengers with IBD face during their travels, including the need for privacy and quick access to medical facilities.

What This Means for Passengers

Thanks to this collaboration, passengers travelling through Cork Airport will benefit from a more supportive environment, including:

Private search facilities for passengers travelling with stoma bags.

The acceptance of Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland’s "No Wait" cards in multiple languages to help passengers access facilities more efficiently.

Assurance that passengers can carry their medication and medical supplies without issue.

Guidance on locating nearby toilet facilities should the need arise.

A Commitment to Dignity and Respect

Amy Kelly, COO of Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland, shared her thoughts on the partnership:

“Our members have highlighted the challenges they face when travelling, particularly due to a lack of awareness among airport staff about stoma bags and the specific needs of people with IBD. When we raised this issue with Cork Airport, they responded quickly and positively. The implementation of specialised training is a great step forward, and we are proud to collaborate with Cork Airport to ensure that all passengers, no matter their health condition, are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

This collaboration sets a new standard for how airports can support passengers with chronic conditions, and we will be working with other airports such as Dublin, Shannon, and Knock to roll out this important training in 2025.