OUR TEAM

Adrian Jackson

Chief Operations Officer

Adrian brings over 16 years of leadership experience to Inclusive Living, having served as a post-primary school principal in County Leitrim since 2009. His background in education has equipped him with a deep understanding of individual needs, inclusive practices, and the importance of fostering environments where people feel valued and empowered.
 
He holds a BA Degree, a Higher Diploma in Education, and a Postgraduate Diploma in School Development Planning—qualifications that reflect his commitment to lifelong learning and strategic development. Adrian’s experience in managing diverse teams and supporting young people through critical stages of their lives has given him a strong foundation for his transition into the disability services sector.
 

Adrian is particularly passionate about creating inclusive, respectful, and empowering residential environments where every individual is supported to live with dignity and independence. His decision to join Inclusive Living stems from a personal desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, guided by values of compassion, equity, and community.

As Chief Operations Officer, Adrian hopes to bring strategic leadership, a culture of continuous improvement, and a deep commitment to quality care to both the team and the people they support.

Outside of work, Adrian enjoys walking, reading and listening to music.
 
Adrian believes in the importance of looking out for one another and is excited to be part of an organisation that reflects this belief daily.
Michelle Connolly

Director of Services

Michelle is the Director of Services for Inclusive Living, bringing over 15 years of experience in Social Care and more than 12 years dedicated to disability services, with a strong focus on community residential supports. Throughout her career, she has been committed to promoting dignity, independence, and person-centred approaches for vulnerable adults and individuals with intellectual disabilities.

With extensive expertise in care planning, risk management, compliance, and governance, Michelle has led teams in delivering high-quality, regulated services that prioritize both safety and inclusion. Her skills span assessment of needs, quality assurance, admissions, and performance management, as well as specialized knowledge in autism, crisis intervention, and residential care.

Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Social Science, graduating with First Class Honours, as well as a Certificate in Key Management Skills and Managing Service Quality. Her leadership is defined by her ability to foster collaborative, values-driven teams and ensure services not only meet regulatory standards but also create meaningful, supportive environments for the people who rely on them.

Sonja Lynch

Clinical Director - CORU Registered Dietitian (DI019036)

Sonja Lynch is a CORU Registered Dietitian with over 20 years of experience in clinical nutrition, public health, and disability services. She holds a BSc in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from Trinity College Dublin and Technological University Dublin.

As Clinical Director at Inclusive Living Ireland, Sonja leads a multidisciplinary team of allied health and social care professionals supporting adults with disabilities in community-based residential settings. Her work is grounded in person-centred care, dignity, and inclusion.

Sonja has worked extensively across both public and private sectors, including HSE-funded and HIQA-regulated services. She has collaborated with GPs, public health nurses, early intervention teams, and disability support services to deliver holistic, integrated care. Her passion lies in supporting neurodivergent individuals and those with complex needs through sensory-aware nutrition and tailored interventions.

Her leadership style is supportive and respectful, promoting independence, wellbeing, and meaningful engagement. Sonja’s values—fairness, respect, equality, dignity, and autonomy—are reflected in every aspect of her work.

Outside of work, Sonja enjoys baking and spending time with her family.

Dr. Emma Bagnall

BA Psych, MSc Applied Psych, D.Clin.Psych, C.Clin. Psychol., Ps.S.I.

Emma has worked in the disability field for over 15 years, supporting neurodivergent children, adults, and their families across both public and private sectors. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the National University of Ireland, Maynooth, and a Master of Science in Applied Psychology, and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Trinity College, Dublin. As a Chartered member of the Psychological Society of Ireland, Emma upholds the highest standards of professional practice.

Emma brings extensive experience from Primary Care, Adult and Older Adult Mental Health, Adult Disability, and Children’s Disability services – with a particular passion for neurodivergence and autism.

Emma is committed to neuroaffirmative, person-centred practice that empowers individuals to live life their way. She values both the science of comprehensive assessment and intervention and the art of building meaningful, respectful
connections. She believes deeply in creativity and collaboration, holding to the view that challenges are not about “can’t”, but about finding the right solutions together.

Emma was drawn to Inclusive Living for its forward-thinking ethos – going beyond care to focus on connection, respect, and supporting residents to thrive. She brings a fresh perspective to the team as a neuroaffirmative practitioner, informed by her unique experience of working in services and directly within family homes.

Outside her professional role, Emma lives on a farm in rural County Meath with her husband and two young daughters. She enjoys family adventures outdoors – especially those that involve a flask of hot chocolate in the woods – and is happiest when she catches a quiet moment to dive into yet another psychology book.