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The images below show the supports available to residents of Ashbourne House & Travelodge from SECAD. To find out more information you can contact Cora O' Donnell by emailing codonnell@secad.ie  
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In partnership with the law firm DLA Piper, the Irish Refugee Council will be running another ‘Know Your Rights’ Course starting on Thursday 2 September. This involves eight 2-hour sessions over eight weeks. Each session involves a presentation on a different area of law, including: housing, employment and consumer rights. The course is for protection applicants and refugees. Please read the attached flyer for more information about the course. You can register for the course here -/> Places are limited so apply early. You can download the flyer below - 
President Michael D. Higgins marked May Day, International Workers Day. In a special video message, the President spoke of how May Day has traditionally been a day to celebrate the progress made – through the efforts of workers and trade union activists – on securing important worker rights, including the fundamental rights laid down in the ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, but also rights relating to health and safety, fair wages, paid vacations, parental leave, and pension plans. Reflecting on how this year’s May Day is the second International Workers Day taking place under Covid-19 public health restrictions, the President highlighted some lessons to be learned from the pandemic, making the case for greater international solidarity in responding to the virus.
Minister McEntee announces further temporary extension of immigration permissions
The Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, T.D., has today announced a further temporary extension of immigration and international protection permissions to 20 September 2021. This applies to permissions that are due to expire between 21 April 2021 and 20 September 2021 and includes permissions that have already been extended by the previous 6 temporary extensions. Announcing the measure, Minister McEntee said: “As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, I want to reassure people whose immigration permissions are due to expire shortly that your legal status in the country will continue to be maintained. To do this, I am introducing a further automatic extension to 20 September 2021 for anyone already holding a valid permission. “This extension will benefit those who cannot get an appointment to register or renew an existing permission. However, I encourage anyone who can renew, particularly Dublin-based customers who can use the online system, to do so and not to wait until September. “It is intended this will be the final temporary extension of immigration permission, however we will continue to keep the situation under review as part of our national response to the pandemic.” The temporary extension of immigration permissions means that people who held a valid permission to be in the State in March 2020 are legally permitted to remain until 20 September 2021, even if their Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card has expired and they are awaiting a new one. Renewal is on the same basis as the existing permission and the same conditions will continue to apply. Tens of thousands of people will benefit from this measure. The Registration Office in Burgh Quay remains closed as a result of the COVID-19 restrictions announced by Government in December. Customers who were issued with appointments for first time registrations, will be contacted directly by the Immigration Service and they will be prioritised for appointments once the Public Office can safely reopen. We thank our customers for their understanding and patience during this difficult time.
This video is produced by the HSE and delivered by www.TranslateIreland.ie with Dr. Catherine Clifford, a GP in Cork.
This video contains the facts from Medical Professionals - don't make a decision about the vaccine without first viewing this video. How safe is the COVID-19 Vaccine - Dr Clifford says: "All vaccines used in Ireland are Safe" Please find at this link full access to the White Paper published by Minister O' Gorman on 26th February last You should note this explanation on Green & White Papers & what they mean in the Irish Government System: Green Papers, White Papers and discussion documents. A Green Paper is a discussion document, usually written by civil servants, in which an issue is outlined, various options are suggested and the advantages and disadvantages of those options may be set out. Generally, the public is asked for submissions on the options proposed. After this process is complete, a White Paper is drawn up - this sets out the Government's policy on the issue and what it intends to do. The proposals in the White Paper are then implemented. Sometimes this process occurs but the titles Green and White Papers are not used; they are called discussion documents or something similar. Sometimes a White Paper is published without a preceding Green Paper. Sometimes the process is carried through and then nothing happens after the White Paper is published. Sometimes papers are published which have the same effect as a White Paper but are called strategy documents or similar. The actual public consultation process varies as well. Gender Equality in the Justice Sector: Perspectives from Senior Leaders To mark International Women's Day 2021, the Department of Justice is inviting you to attend a virtual roundtable discussion next Monday, 8 March at 1pm. The theme for the event will be ‘Gender Equality in the Justice Sector: Perspectives from Senior Leaders’. Minister McEntee will lead the discussion, with panellists asked to reflect on how the justice sector has evolved as a place for women to work. To register for this event, please click here. This roundtable discussion will feature insights from: · Helen McEntee TD, Minister for Justice · Oonagh McPhillips, Secretary General of the Department of Justice · Anne Marie McMahon, Deputy Commissioner of An Garda Síochána · Angela Denning, CEO of the Courts Service · Maeve Hogan, CEO, Property Services Regulatory Authority · Linda Mulligan, Chief State Pathologist Attendees will be able to submit written questions via the chat function in Zoom for consideration by the panel. There will be a limit on the amount of attendees who can register for this event so please register early. The virtual roundtable will also be live-streamed on the Department of Justice social media channels. We would appreciate it if you would forward this email to your staff and encourage as many as possible to attend this event. It is a great opportunity for everyone to learn more about gender equality in the justice sector and help start an open discussion about what is working and what needs to change. About International Women's Day International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women's achievements or rally for women's equality. Marked annually on March 8th, International Women's Day is one of the most important days of the year to:
We looking forward to seeing you there. Department of Justice From Irish Refugee Council: I have been in contact with Bank of Ireland on and off for the last year and half about Bank accounts for people in the protection process. I spoke to them today. They are close to having a written published policy on bank accounts. But they did say the following which I think is progress. It might be worth pursuing accounts with BOI, however without a published policy local branches may not comply.
New Rules for Social Welfare Payment for Those Granted Asylum BUT Living in Direct Provision12/2/2021 From Irish Refugee Council People with status living in Direct Provision who are receiving a social welfare payment should be receiving the full amount as of October 2020 - I am talking about payments such as jobseekers allowance, disability allowance, back to education allowance – not the daily expenses allowance. Non cash benefits (direct provision accommodation and food) should no longer be subtracted from the overall amount received. This is as a result of a change in legislation that came into effect on 30 September 2020 Full details here -/> Any residents living in DP with status who are still receiving a reduced social welfare payment, they should contact their local social welfare office in order to trigger a review of their claim. The review should be backdated to 1 October 2020 and as a result, some will be entitled to arrears. We have heard of certain social welfare offices that are reluctant to facilitate the above, so that is something to keep an eye out for. Also, those who are in receipt of the daily expenses allowances when they are granted status should, where appropriate, apply for a full social welfare payment as soon as they can. Some residents have received letters requiring them to do this within a certain time frame. I have also heard of the daily expenses allowance being withdrawn from residents without warning. If you are having any related difficulties, contact your Social Welfare Office immediately. Tell us about your experience in the international protection process: Last year, the Irish Government published the Report of Catherine Day and her Expert Advisory Group. This Report made recommendations on how the international protection process can be improved. A review of the process from beginning to end is being carried out to see how the recommendations can be achieved. The international protection process is when the International Protection Office (IPO) examine your claim, and also when the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) hear appeals against negative IPO decisions. If you are currently in the protection (asylum) process or if you have recently completed the process (within the last 18 months), we would like to hear from you. Tell us about your journey through the process, what you think could be improved and how. Your thoughts and ideas will help the IPO and IPAT improve their processes, and how they engage with people at all stages of the process. How you can get involved and have your voice heard: We will be holding online workshops towards the end of February to listen to what you have to say about your experiences of the processes. There are a number of ways in which you can participate. Please complete the questions in this link if you would like to participate. You will have the option to continue to a short survey that you can complete too to share your thoughts: https://connectthedots.typeform.com/to/imqGWPB9 To Read more download the document below
 If you wish to apply for a Covid19 social welfare payment please go online to www.welfare.ie If you are an older person please contact the Irish Red Cross /Alone to avail of a once off grant of €500 to replace small items of equipment in your home during this isolation phase. Go to www.redcross.ie to download the application form. www.revenue.ie have a lot of useful information about payments to employers who are retaining staff Women's Aid helpline is 1800341900 if you are experiencing domestic violence or www.womensaid.ie to chat online and get support, you can also contact SafeIreland.ie for information on local supports in your area. NALA helpline for people with literacy and numeracy problems have a free phone and online service to support people cope with the overwhelming amount of information on 1800 20 20 65 or www.nala.ie Money Advice Bureau, MABS are there to help and give advice if you are struggling financially as a result of COVID19, MABS helpline is 0761072000 or www.mabs.ie Contact An Garda Síochána at any local station to get support from the Community Gardaí at this time who are helping out in lots of ways around the city. An Post are offering a number of services to those who are cocooning at present such as ‘Request a Check-In’. Please visit www.anpost.ie for further information The Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment has announced that all major telecom providers have committed to a number of measures to help people stay in touch and work from home during Covid19. Go to https://bit.ly/34OaQAp for further information. Mental Health Reform is the leading national coalition on mental health in Ireland with over 70 member organisations, representing a broad range of interests. Their services and supports can be accessed at www.mentalhealthreform.ie HSE Health and Wellbeing are offering a free Stress Control programme online via www.Stresscontrol.org from the 13th April. Stress Control is an evidence-based programme that teaches you practical skills to deal with stress. Dr Jim White will live-stream the classes, free-of-charge, starting on Monday 13th April. Cork Sports Partnership along with other partner organisations have developed a Keep Cork Active Booklet and online resource for people of all ages www.activecork.ie The Department of Justice and Equality have just launched a new website which brings together all of the domestic violence supports and services information. go to www.stillhere.ie Applications for the Susi college grant are opening today. Due to the current crisis many more students may have become eligible for the grant. www.susi.ie for further information. The Jigsaw support line is now up and running on freefone 1800 JIGSAW (544 729). This new initiative was developed as part of our Covid–19 response. It will provide free mental health support and advice to young people aged 12 to 25 years old, and parents or concerned adults who live in the Republic of Ireland.You can also get in touch with Jigsaw clinicians by text message or email and ask for a return support call. www.jigsaw.ie The government has recently launched a Mental Wellbeing campaign. The campaign offers support and resources for people to help deal with the stress, isolation and helps people maintain wellbeing and cope at home during this time. The campaign is running on all National and Local radio channels, as well as across social and digital platforms. The website is www.gov.ie/together and the hashtag is #Together. We welcome your support on this and branding is available to all stakeholders creating messages in this space. Barnardos have launched their new National Parent Support line which is available to any parent or family who needs support. The number is 1800 910 123 operating Monday-Friday from 10am-2pm. Further information is available at www.barnardos.ie/supportline. Parents can talk directly to one of our qualified staff who will offer them practical support and guidance in their role as parents during the Covid-19 crisis. The number Citizens Information are operating a helpline service on 0761 076850 which available Monday-Friday from 10am-4pm. Further information can also be obtained at www.citizensinformation.ie The Connect Call Service is an initiative of Cork City of Sanctuary Movement Covid-19 Task Force. It offers a free confidential phone call up to 5 days per week to those living in direct provision accommodation, or who have been moved from DP into self-isolation facilities, and to migrants living in the community under lockdown. Connect Call Service offers support in many languages to facilitate wide access by the migrant community. To access the Connect Call service contact Cork Migrant Centre on 086 824 6087 National List of Drug and Alcohol Services [including Cork] can be found at http://www.services.drugs.ie/ HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline This confidential service has both a freephone Helpline (1800 459 459) and an email support service (helpline@hse.ie). Ask About Alcohol – Alcohol – HSE.ie site with lots of information on alcohol https://www2.hse.ie/alcohol/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_fWwt7aN6QIV0u7tCh2poA5rEAAYASAAEgI1k_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds Alcoholics Anonymous https://www.alcoholicsanonymous.ie/ AA Online meetings https://www.alcoholicsanonymous.ie/aa-meetings/online-meetings.1607346.html The Citizens Information Service is available at 0761 076850 locally and the www.citizensinformation.ie website for queries related to income supports, employment rights etc. during the pandemic. Family Carers Ireland have developed an Emergency Care Plan booklet for family carers to record the details of their caring role in case they are suddenly unable to continue caring because of Covid-19. It can be downloaded from www.familycarers.ie. Their Freephone National Careline number is 1800 240724. Back to School Footwear and Clothing Allowance is provided by the Department of Social Protection. Applications are due to open online from the last week in June at www.mywelfare.ie. Any person whose circumstances have changed should contact the Department of Social Protection at 1890 662244/ 071 9193318 or email bscfa@welfare.ie Age Actions’ Getting Started KIT supports older people to keep in touch with their loved ones during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Getting Started KIT is made up of seven How To guides that will support older people to learn, use, and be confident using smartphones and applications. The Getting Started Kit has been made into video tutorials. The video’s are presented by Mary Kennedy and have been shown on the Today programme with Maura and Dáithí. The video tutorials are available to view on: https://www.ageaction.ie/how-we-can-help/getting-started-kit Libraries are re-opening on the 9th June. Library users can call or email to reserve books and priority hours for collection and return will be 10am-11am for seniors and vulnerable users. The reference library is available on 021 4924911 or email: reference_library@corkcity.ie. www.corkcitylibaries.ie Cork Education and Training Board is offering an Introduction to Online Learning course. The course duration is 4-5 hours and starts on the 29th June. Application details and further information are available at: blazenka.herman@corketb.ie Mental Health Policy and Support Line The Department’s new mental health policy, “Sharing the Vision: A Mental Health Policy for Everyone” was launched last week. A new Crisis Text line – Text 50808 was also launched. The new text-based mental health service will provide support to anyone struggling with any issue, big or small for free and at any time of any day. The service is staffed by 300 trained crisis volunteers and people can access support by texting 50808. The COVID Tracker phone app is an important tool we can all use to reduce the spread of the virus. It supports the HSE’s Contact Tracing team by keeping an anonymous record of people with whom the user is in close contact. The Covid Tracker App allows many of us to play an important part in helping everyone to stay safe and protect each other. The more people who download and use the app, the more effective it will be in helping us to suppress Covid-19. You can find more information on www.covidtracker.ie. Make sure you take a look at the short online courses listed in this newsletter   A question was asked of the Minister for Health on the 20th of January last as to when Asylum Seekers will be able to get their Vaccination. The answer from the Minister indicated that "Those living in direct provision will be vaccinated in group 9 of the Provisional Vaccine Allocation Groups, i.e., Aged 18-64 years living or working in crowded accommodation where self-isolation and social distancing is difficult to maintain. However, it is important to note that a person living in direct provision could be vaccinated in an earlier group due to their age or their age and the presence of a specified medical condition. It is not clear from the Minister's reply when this will happen, however the requirement remains for everyone to comply with guidelines for wearing masks, social distancing and washing hands. The Question & the Minister's Full Reply is here-/> Minister McEntee announces reduced 6 month waiting period for international protection applicants to access work
28 January 2021 The Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee TD, has today announced new measures that will enable applicants for international protection to seek work six months after they make their application. Applicants previously had to wait nine months to apply for permission to work. In a further change, an applicant’s permission to work will now last for 12 months rather than six months. Welcoming the new measures, the Minister said, “Since its introduction in June 2018, access to the labour market has had a very positive impact for international protection applicants and employers. To date, 6,006 permissions to access the labour market have been issued, including 4,569 permissions to Direct Provision residents. “Giving eligible applicants the opportunity to work earlier, and extending their permission to work to 12 months, will help even more people to integrate into Irish society while providing for themselves and their families outside of the State’s directly provided services and supports. It also helps people to plan and prepare for their future if they receive a positive decision on their application for international protection.” Access to the labour market for international protection applicants is provided for under the European Reception Conditions Regulations 2018 and work on the relevant legislative changes for the new measures is at an advanced stage. Highlighting how the new measures will be applied until that process is completed, the Minister said: “The Department’s Labour Market Access Unit have begun issuing, on an administrative basis, 12 month permits for applicants of six months standing. “This change has been implemented from Tuesday 26 January 2021 for all outstanding applications received on and after 18 January 2021. Therefore, the new administrative arrangements have been applied to all applications from that date.” Where requested, the Department’s Labour Market Access Unit (LMAU) will re-examine any applications for permission to access the labour market which have been refused on the basis of a first instance decision being made in less than nine months. Any applicant who has been refused permission in the last three months because insufficient time had elapsed since their application for international protection may make a new application enclosing all documents required under the new guidelines. Applications for a labour market access permission are available online at www.inis.gov.ie/en/inis/pages/labour-market-access Ends… Notes for editors The new measures follow a review of labour market access for international protection applicants which was carried out by the Department of Justice, in parallel with the work of the Advisory Group (also known as the Catherine Day Group) on the Provision of Supports, including Accommodation, to Persons in the International Protection Process. Applicants who are eligible for a labour market access permission can access all sectors of employment and occupations with the exception of those that require a citizenship or long-term residence requirement, such as the Civil and Public Sector, An Garda Síochána and the Irish Defence Forces. 4th December 2020 The Department of Justice continues to examine ways to improve the delivery of services to our customers. I would like to update you on one such improvement being implemented by the Immigration Service of the Department with effect from December 2nd 2020, which may be relevant to the work of your organisation. From this date, our customers renewing the registration of their immigration permission will no longer need to submit their passport to have the immigration stamp added by their Registration Office. This applies to renewals for Dublin-based customers, which are made through an online renewal process facilitated by the Burgh Quay office and renewals for customers living outside Dublin, which are made in-person in local Registration Offices at Garda Stations nationwide. Customers will no longer have to leave their passport with a registration office while their application is being processed. It is expected that this will significantly improve the time taken to renew immigration permissions and will also allow the person to use their passport for other purposes while their application is being processed. Successful applicants will be issued with an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card which will prove that they are legally registered in Ireland and identify the immigration permission that they hold. If legal residence and proof of an up-to-date immigration permission is a requirement for access to any state services, the production of this valid IRP card will satisfy this requirement. If proof of a person’s reckonable residency in the State is required, queries should be addressed to the Garda National Immigration Bureau, 13/14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2. I would be grateful if you could please communicate this important change within your organisation and to any relevant affiliates, especially where this information may be important for their area of work or service provision. Our website www.inis.gov.ie contains more information, along with a Frequently Asked Questions document on these changes, with relevant information for both individuals and organisations. If you have any further questions, please contact us at burghquayregoffice@justice.ie. Yours sincerely, Emer Mullins Head of Registration Office If you wish to apply for a Covid19 social welfare payment please go online to www.welfare.ie If you are an older person please contact the Irish Red Cross /Alone to avail of a once off grant of €500 to replace small items of equipment in your home during this isolation phase. Go to www.redcross.ie to download the application form. www.revenue.ie have a lot of useful information about payments to employers who are retaining staff Women's Aid helpline is 1800341900 if you are experiencing domestic violence or www.womensaid.ie to chat online and get support, you can also contact SafeIreland.ie for information on local supports in your area. NALA helpline for people with literacy and numeracy problems have a free phone and online service to support people cope with the overwhelming amount of information on 1800 20 20 65 or www.nala.ie Money Advice Bureau, MABS are there to help and give advice if you are struggling financially as a result of COVID19, MABS helpline is 0761072000 or www.mabs.ie Contact An Garda Síochána at any local station to get support from the Community Gardaí at this time who are helping out in lots of ways around the city. An Post are offering a number of services to those who are cocooning at present such as ‘Request a Check-In’. Please visit www.anpost.ie for further information The Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment has announced that all major telecom providers have committed to a number of measures to help people stay in touch and work from home during Covid19. Go to https://bit.ly/34OaQAp for further information. Mental Health Reform is the leading national coalition on mental health in Ireland with over 70 member organisations, representing a broad range of interests. Their services and supports can be accessed at www.mentalhealthreform.ie HSE Health and Wellbeing are offering a free Stress Control programme online via www.Stresscontrol.org from the 13th April. Stress Control is an evidence-based programme that teaches you practical skills to deal with stress. Dr Jim White will live-stream the classes, free-of-charge, starting on Monday 13th April. Cork Sports Partnership along with other partner organisations have developed a Keep Cork Active Booklet and online resource for people of all ages www.activecork.ie The Department of Justice and Equality have just launched a new website which brings together all of the domestic violence supports and services information. go to www.stillhere.ie Applications for the Susi college grant are opening today. Due to the current crisis many more students may have become eligible for the grant. www.susi.ie for further information. The Jigsaw support line is now up and running on freefone 1800 JIGSAW (544 729). This new initiative was developed as part of our Covid–19 response. It will provide free mental health support and advice to young people aged 12 to 25 years old, and parents or concerned adults who live in the Republic of Ireland.You can also get in touch with Jigsaw clinicians by text message or email and ask for a return support call. www.jigsaw.ie The government has recently launched a Mental Wellbeing campaign. The campaign offers support and resources for people to help deal with the stress, isolation and helps people maintain wellbeing and cope at home during this time. The campaign is running on all National and Local radio channels, as well as across social and digital platforms. The website is www.gov.ie/together and the hashtag is #Together. We welcome your support on this and branding is available to all stakeholders creating messages in this space. Barnardos have launched their new National Parent Support line which is available to any parent or family who needs support. The number is 1800 910 123 operating Monday-Friday from 10am-2pm. Further information is available at www.barnardos.ie/supportline. Parents can talk directly to one of our qualified staff who will offer them practical support and guidance in their role as parents during the Covid-19 crisis. The number Citizens Information are operating a helpline service on 0761 076850 which available Monday-Friday from 10am-4pm. Further information can also be obtained at www.citizensinformation.ie The Connect Call Service is an initiative of Cork City of Sanctuary Movement Covid-19 Task Force. It offers a free confidential phone call up to 5 days per week to those living in direct provision accommodation, or who have been moved from DP into self-isolation facilities, and to migrants living in the community under lockdown. Connect Call Service offers support in many languages to facilitate wide access by the migrant community. To access the Connect Call service contact Cork Migrant Centre on 086 824 6087 National List of Drug and Alcohol Services [including Cork] can be found at http://www.services.drugs.ie/ HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline This confidential service has both a freephone Helpline (1800 459 459) and an email support service (helpline@hse.ie). Ask About Alcohol – Alcohol – HSE.ie site with lots of information on alcohol https://www2.hse.ie/alcohol/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_fWwt7aN6QIV0u7tCh2poA5rEAAYASAAEgI1k_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds Alcoholics Anonymous https://www.alcoholicsanonymous.ie/ AA Online meetings https://www.alcoholicsanonymous.ie/aa-meetings/online-meetings.1607346.html The Citizens Information Service is available at 0761 076850 locally and the www.citizensinformation.ie website for queries related to income supports, employment rights etc. during the pandemic. Family Carers Ireland have developed an Emergency Care Plan booklet for family carers to record the details of their caring role in case they are suddenly unable to continue caring because of Covid-19. It can be downloaded from www.familycarers.ie. Their Freephone National Careline number is 1800 240724. Back to School Footwear and Clothing Allowance is provided by the Department of Social Protection. Applications are due to open online from the last week in June at www.mywelfare.ie. Any person whose circumstances have changed should contact the Department of Social Protection at 1890 662244/ 071 9193318 or email bscfa@welfare.ie Age Actions’ Getting Started KIT supports older people to keep in touch with their loved ones during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Getting Started KIT is made up of seven How To guides that will support older people to learn, use, and be confident using smartphones and applications. The Getting Started Kit has been made into video tutorials. The video’s are presented by Mary Kennedy and have been shown on the Today programme with Maura and Dáithí. The video tutorials are available to view on: https://www.ageaction.ie/how-we-can-help/getting-started-kit Libraries are re-opening on the 9th June. Library users can call or email to reserve books and priority hours for collection and return will be 10am-11am for seniors and vulnerable users. The reference library is available on 021 4924911 or email: reference_library@corkcity.ie. www.corkcitylibaries.ie Cork Education and Training Board is offering an Introduction to Online Learning course. The course duration is 4-5 hours and starts on the 29th June. Application details and further information are available at: blazenka.herman@corketb.ie Mental Health Policy and Support Line The Department’s new mental health policy, “Sharing the Vision: A Mental Health Policy for Everyone” was launched last week. A new Crisis Text line – Text 50808 was also launched. The new text-based mental health service will provide support to anyone struggling with any issue, big or small for free and at any time of any day. The service is staffed by 300 trained crisis volunteers and people can access support by texting 50808. The COVID Tracker phone app is an important tool we can all use to reduce the spread of the virus. It supports the HSE’s Contact Tracing team by keeping an anonymous record of people with whom the user is in close contact. The Covid Tracker App allows many of us to play an important part in helping everyone to stay safe and protect each other. The more people who download and use the app, the more effective it will be in helping us to suppress Covid-19. You can find more information on www.covidtracker.ie. This is the "Day" report prepared by Catherine Day, Chair of the Advisory Group. To read the full report click on this link here Below find some of the recent headlines relating to the report. Feel free to give your comments & feedback in the comments section below.       All of the country will start level 5 restrictions from tomorrow night - Wednesday 21st Oct 2020 and it is projected to last for 6 weeks. Everyone in centres in Cork has been through this before earlier in the year & knows exactly what is expected of them. Residents did a fantastic job back in March, April & May helping stop the spread of the virus and have done that ever since also. There is no reason to believe that the same cannot be done again. There will of course be some who criticise restrictions, but that never changes what has to be done;- get into a routine and do the simple things well - *Masks *Hand washing *Physical distancing The full rules associated with these restrictions are covered at this link However, we are all experienced at this now. We know what is expected and we know that we will come out the other side. In many ways things are better now that the last time...why? This is not a lockdown like we had before:- * Many of you will be able to continue to work * Those who lose their jobs now have access to the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) - you can apply here * Kids can remain at school & child minding services continue also * Most Adult courses will continue online * There a many established resources online to keep yourself busy and of course BRIJ remains available to you via this website and via the Whatsapp links we have established with you over the months since March. Whilst we will not be able to continue our visits to centers on a routine basis, we remain available to you to help where we can. If you have something you need us to assist you with, just make personal contact or email brijcork@gmail.com This is a time for simple routines, repeated daily, and looking out for others. This will help you feel good about yourself. These restrictions are not forever, they are simply for all our benefit and if things go well, then they may well end before the planned 6 weeks is up. We can also do with some more examples of BRIJ Creativity and Halloween presents a perfect opportunity to record something and send it to us for the website here We at BRIJ look forward to hearing from you...... Automatic Extension of Immigration & International Protection Permissions until 20 January 202118/9/2020 The Minister for Justice is announcing that all renewals will be automatically extended until 20 January 2021 but you must apply to renew before 20 January 2021 anyhow so that all remains in date after that.  If you wish to apply for a Covid19 social welfare payment please go online to www.welfare.ie If you are an older person please contact the Irish Red Cross /Alone to avail of a once off grant of €500 to replace small items of equipment in your home during this isolation phase. Go to www.redcross.ie to download the application form. www.revenue.ie have a lot of useful information about payments to employers who are retaining staff Women's Aid helpline is 1800341900 if you are experiencing domestic violence or www.womensaid.ie to chat online and get support, you can also contact SafeIreland.ie for information on local supports in your area. NALA helpline for people with literacy and numeracy problems have a free phone and online service to support people cope with the overwhelming amount of information on 1800 20 20 65 or www.nala.ie Money Advice Bureau, MABS are there to help and give advice if you are struggling financially as a result of COVID19, MABS helpline is 0761072000 or www.mabs.ie Contact An Garda Síochána at any local station to get support from the Community Gardaí at this time who are helping out in lots of ways around the city. An Post are offering a number of services to those who are cocooning at present such as ‘Request a Check-In’. Please visit www.anpost.ie for further information The Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment has announced that all major telecom providers have committed to a number of measures to help people stay in touch and work from home during Covid19. Go to https://bit.ly/34OaQAp for further information. Mental Health Reform is the leading national coalition on mental health in Ireland with over 70 member organisations, representing a broad range of interests. Their services and supports can be accessed at www.mentalhealthreform.ie HSE Health and Wellbeing are offering a free Stress Control programme online via www.Stresscontrol.org from the 13th April. Stress Control is an evidence-based programme that teaches you practical skills to deal with stress. Dr Jim White will live-stream the classes, free-of-charge, starting on Monday 13th April. Cork Sports Partnership along with other partner organisations have developed a Keep Cork Active Booklet and online resource for people of all ages www.activecork.ie The Department of Justice and Equality have just launched a new website which brings together all of the domestic violence supports and services information. go to www.stillhere.ie Applications for the Susi college grant are opening today. Due to the current crisis many more students may have become eligible for the grant. www.susi.ie for further information. The Jigsaw support line is now up and running on freefone 1800 JIGSAW (544 729). This new initiative was developed as part of our Covid–19 response. It will provide free mental health support and advice to young people aged 12 to 25 years old, and parents or concerned adults who live in the Republic of Ireland.You can also get in touch with Jigsaw clinicians by text message or email and ask for a return support call. www.jigsaw.ie The government has recently launched a Mental Wellbeing campaign. The campaign offers support and resources for people to help deal with the stress, isolation and helps people maintain wellbeing and cope at home during this time. The campaign is running on all National and Local radio channels, as well as across social and digital platforms. The website is www.gov.ie/together and the hashtag is #Together. We welcome your support on this and branding is available to all stakeholders creating messages in this space. Barnardos have launched their new National Parent Support line which is available to any parent or family who needs support. The number is 1800 910 123 operating Monday-Friday from 10am-2pm. Further information is available at www.barnardos.ie/supportline. Parents can talk directly to one of our qualified staff who will offer them practical support and guidance in their role as parents during the Covid-19 crisis. The number Citizens Information are operating a helpline service on 0761 076850 which available Monday-Friday from 10am-4pm. Further information can also be obtained at www.citizensinformation.ie The Connect Call Service is an initiative of Cork City of Sanctuary Movement Covid-19 Task Force. It offers a free confidential phone call up to 5 days per week to those living in direct provision accommodation, or who have been moved from DP into self-isolation facilities, and to migrants living in the community under lockdown. Connect Call Service offers support in many languages to facilitate wide access by the migrant community. To access the Connect Call service contact Cork Migrant Centre on 086 824 6087 National List of Drug and Alcohol Services [including Cork] can be found at http://www.services.drugs.ie/ HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline This confidential service has both a freephone Helpline (1800 459 459) and an email support service (helpline@hse.ie). Ask About Alcohol – Alcohol – HSE.ie site with lots of information on alcohol https://www2.hse.ie/alcohol/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_fWwt7aN6QIV0u7tCh2poA5rEAAYASAAEgI1k_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds Alcoholics Anonymous https://www.alcoholicsanonymous.ie/ AA Online meetings https://www.alcoholicsanonymous.ie/aa-meetings/online-meetings.1607346.html The Citizens Information Service is available at 0761 076850 locally and the www.citizensinformation.ie website for queries related to income supports, employment rights etc. during the pandemic. Family Carers Ireland have developed an Emergency Care Plan booklet for family carers to record the details of their caring role in case they are suddenly unable to continue caring because of Covid-19. It can be downloaded from www.familycarers.ie. Their Freephone National Careline number is 1800 240724. Back to School Footwear and Clothing Allowance is provided by the Department of Social Protection. Applications are due to open online from the last week in June at www.mywelfare.ie. Any person whose circumstances have changed should contact the Department of Social Protection at 1890 662244/ 071 9193318 or email bscfa@welfare.ie Age Actions’ Getting Started KIT supports older people to keep in touch with their loved ones during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Getting Started KIT is made up of seven How To guides that will support older people to learn, use, and be confident using smartphones and applications. The Getting Started Kit has been made into video tutorials. The video’s are presented by Mary Kennedy and have been shown on the Today programme with Maura and Dáithí. The video tutorials are available to view on: https://www.ageaction.ie/how-we-can-help/getting-started-kit Libraries are re-opening on the 9th June. Library users can call or email to reserve books and priority hours for collection and return will be 10am-11am for seniors and vulnerable users. The reference library is available on 021 4924911 or email: reference_library@corkcity.ie. www.corkcitylibaries.ie Cork Education and Training Board is offering an Introduction to Online Learning course. The course duration is4-5 hours and starts on the 29th June. Application details and further information are available at: blazenka.herman@corketb.ie Mental Health Policy and Support Line The Department’s new mental health policy, “Sharing the Vision: A Mental Health Policy for Everyone” was launched last week. A new Crisis Text line – Text 50808 was also launched. The new text-based mental health service will provide support to anyone struggling with any issue, big or small for free and at any time of any day. The service is staffed by 300 trained crisis volunteers and people can access support by texting 50808. The COVID Tracker phone app is an important tool we can all use to reduce the spread of the virus. It supports the HSE’s Contact Tracing team by keeping an anonymous record of people with whom the user is in close contact. The Covid Tracker App allows many of us to play an important part in helping everyone to stay safe and protect each other. The more people who download and use the app, the more effective it will be in helping us to suppress Covid-19. You can find more information on www.covidtracker.ie. |
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