Since the cult of Dimpna began, locals have played a part in the care of pilgrims with mental health problems. The first patients were tended to in the infirmary of Saint Dimpna's church. The church soon ran out of space and pilgrims were accommodated in local people's homes.
The Sisters Hospitaller also took in the mentally ill for long periods, alongside locals who had become sick. From this tradition of home care grew the idea of family fostering, which is still in place today.
As an inclusive and accessible museum the Hospital Museum tailors its guided tours to suit special target audiences. These tours are created through intensive but inspirational collaboration projects.
