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Our History
The journey started with Phil Thompson and Aubrey McCarthy, 2 men who had watched addiction move through their own families, decide together that they need to bring change.
A journey of change built year after year
Our mission has evolved significantly over the years, ultimately leading to a profound impact that we are proud to share.
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Early 2000s
Phil and Aubrey work together in Newbridge. Both have seen addiction in their own families and feel called to do something to help. They begin to volunteer together with the Salvation Army in Cedar House, an emergency accommodation and homeless shelter in Dublin city centre.
2003
Shechem House, a women’s residential rehabilitation centre, is opened in Newbridge by Teen Challenge Ireland.
2004
Phil starts working for the Salvation Army. Due to a lack of suitable Irish options, he sends people in addiction to Whitchester House: a residential rehabilitation centre in the Scottish Borders.
2006
Aubrey hears Judge Gillian Hussey speak about Shechem House and the need for a men’s centre. She later becomes Tiglin’s Patron.
2007
Aubrey and Phil share their vision for a men’s centre with Teen Challenge Ireland and suggest the site that becomes Tiglin.
2008
Tiglin Men’s Centre is purchased and renovated. The first student joins in August. President Mary McAleese officially opens the centre. Phil becomes Head of Operations.
2009
No Bucks Café launches as a mobile outreach service. Tiglin begins its re-entry phase in Carraig Eden, Greystones.
2010-2011
Aubrey becomes Chairman. Tiglin doubles in size, rebrands, and moves the Women’s Centre to the main campus.
2012
Family Support, East Coast Rehab Integration Service, and education programmes launch. President Higgins opens the Women’s Centre.
2014–2015
Arklow Day Programme opens. Phil becomes CEO. CE placements begin.
2016-17
Women’s Centre relocates to Brittas Bay. Tiglin partners with SETU. Carraig Eden is saved and a council partnership begins.
2020
No Bucks moves indoors due to COVID-19. Jigginstown Manor opens as supported housing for young adults.
2021-2022
Rise at the Cove café and Coolnagreina campus launch. Tiglin houses Ukrainian refugees and reopens indoor services. Jigginstown Manor is officially opened by President Higgins.
2023
Rise at the Cove wins awards. Greystones Youth Café and microbakery launch at Coolnagreina.
2024
Tiglin purchases Loreto Convent in Bray for educational and community support initiatives.
Your questions, answered with honesty
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