Free clothing packsto keep Carrick warm

They are funded by the Public Health Agency and can be collected locally at the DUP office at Joymount.

They have been distributed through Mid and East Antrim District Council.

DUP councillor Cheryl Johnston indicated that approximately 30 packs have been made available.

To date, ten have been given to callers.

Packs include thermal tops and bottoms, scarves, hats, gloves and blankets.

Among those set to benefit are homeless veterans.

Cllr. Johnston indicated that recipients must meet certain criteria.

This includes those suffering from a chronic illness; aged over 65 years or under 16; homeless; suffering from fuel poverty and struggling to heat their home and must not have received a clothing pack previously.

Cheryl said: “I am very keen to distribute the packs within the local area in Carrick, Whitehead and Greenisland.

“If anyone thinks they may be eligible, they should call at the DUP office in Joymount.”

The Public Health Agency said: “It is vital that vulnerable people are given the means to help them keep warm this winter.

“The Public Health Agency is working in partnership with local organisations to reach people who are at greater risk of cold-related illness.

“These community, voluntary and statutory partners are essential in supporting us to ensure that warm clothing gets quickly to those who need it most.

“This programme is part of a range of measures that the Public Health Agency is taking forward to help vulnerable people and tackle fuel poverty.”

Forty-four per cent of people in Northern Ireland live in fuel poverty.