Anne Street Community House and Residents Association

Description

As above and we have also gotten a free wee recycling collection as many elderly don’t drive and assisted with moving items. Have the Marie Keating Van out yearly for people to meet a specialist nurse for any concerns. Have had days out on the barge and lullymore. Assisted family members with applications for carers , and other related entitlements. Many of our age friendly also received help and care packs to mark national disability day and carers week. We strongly advocate for our paths to be repaired where elderly have tripped and fell on the cobble paths. At Christmas we do a full Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, extra special prizes for the bingo and a little gift for everyone. In power outages or water outages we check in on neighbours , we now have a small gas camping stove , rechargeable lights , water butt’s, power station so we can assist the community to get through such times. We also ran age and opportunity sessions with a personal trainer to get people back into light excersize.

Aim of Initiative

To be as inclusive as possible , lessen the isolation and loneliness ,build new friendships and just be there when needed and make sure they know their is a community to help and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Who is it aimed at

Over 50s , but also anyone with disabilty or carers.

3 Steps critical to success

1. Trust from the people attending, keep your word and promises. We are also set up to and be garda vetted. Also discretion and understanding.
2. Community involvment and volunteers.
3. Financial help via grants

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Getting staff through TUS or CE shemes. And volunteers.
2. Funding
3. Many elderly residents don’t have their own transport and need to get to essential appointments or even weekly shops on buses in all weather and in high flu season.

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. A warm welcoming safe space with no judgement just understanding help and friendships.
2. Happier and more confident residents who will ask when they need help.
3. Knowing there is always someone who can help or at least try their best.

   All of the above lead to better mental health and overall health.