1000 referrals to Council’s COVID-19 Co-Ordination hub

Established at Flowerfield Arts Centre and operated by Council staff, the facility links those in need across the Borough with vital support services.

So far it has received 1000 referrals from Advice NI and the Northern and Western Health and Social Care Trusts, helping to ensure that the most vulnerable get the help they need at this time.

Earlier this week, the Mayor Councillor Sean Bateson visited the facility to offer his support to those involved.

He said: “This facility was set up in direct response to the pandemic and is proving to be an important link between vulnerable members of our community and the many local response initiatives which have been established across the Borough. Council Officers have taken on this role with great enthusiasm and I would once again like to thank everyone who has helped to develop and implement this resource. Council is playing a key role in the overall response to COVID-19 while continuing to maintain its essential services for the ratepayer and this wouldn’t be possible without our staff.”

Alongside the Co-Ordination Hub, a number of Council facilities have been repurposed to co-ordinate emergency supplies for those at risk from food poverty.

Across Causeway Coast and Glens, around 80 community response initiatives have been set up to ensure practical and emotional support is available to those who are most at risk during the pandemic.

If you or someone you know needs support at this time contact Advice NI’s Freephone COVID-19 Community Helpline on 0808 802 0020; email [email protected] or text ACTION to 81025, seven days a week, 9am to 5pm. Referrals will be passed to the Council Hub.

Details about community response initiatives as well as other information and advice is available at www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/covid19