PRESS RELEASE
IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 9 April 2020
COVID-19: COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS DEPLOYED IN EVERY COUNTY
The Wheel and Irish Rural Link today announced that Community Champions have been deployed in every county to support people who are ‘cocooned’ in their homes under the COVID-19 emergency measures. The initiative is part of the Community Call, which was launched by An Tánaiste, Simon Coveney last Thursday (2 April).
The 26 Community Champions are working with local authorities and local community and voluntary groups to make sure that people who need help get it from trusted, experienced sources.
Commenting on the initiative, Deirdre Garvey, CEO of The Wheel, said, “It is now nearly two weeks since the ‘cocooning’ measures on were introduced, and it is proving a difficult adjustment for many older people and people with underlying health conditions who are normally quite active in their local communities. It is the role of the Community Champions to ‘join the dots’ and ensure that every person, regardless of where they live in the country, is connected to the necessary help and supports to meet their needs at this time”.
Seamus Boland, CEO of Irish Rural Link, added, “There are a lot of community groups, voluntary organisations, and people in every community who helping and willing to help at this time. So for those who have to ‘cocoon’ and may not have family living close by, do not be afraid to ask for help.”
“Charities, community groups, and voluntary organisations that are currently supporting vulnerable people in the community, or are planning to do so, are advised to contact their local Community Champion as soon as possible,” said Seamus Boland.
The contact details of the 26 Community Champions are available at www.wheel.ie/champions. Those in need of support can also call the Community Call Helpline on 0818 222 024. This number is available from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Sunday.
-ENDS-
Seamus Boland and Deirdre Garvey are available for interview. Contact Louise Lennon on M:086 106 9244 or Gert Ackermann on M:086 176 9287.
About The Wheel
The Wheel is Ireland’s national association of charities, community and voluntary organisations, and social enterprises. With over 1,700 members, it is the largest representative body for the sector. Visit www.wheel.iefor more information.
About Irish Rural Link
Irish Rural Link is the national network for community groups in disadvantaged and marginalised rural areas. It represents their interests by highlighting problems, advocating appropriate policies, and sharing experiences and examples of good practice. Visit www.irishrurallink.ie for more information.
