“The care bags at the start were very beneficial to us as we had very little when we arrived. The food packages on the weekends are fantastic as we are in self-catering accommodation and the food is shared between all the families.”  Ukrainian resident

Web Page and QR Code

The web page, which is located on Carlow County Development’s home page, was built by a local company at very short space of time and free of charge as part of the company’s CSR work. Having built community web pages for a number of groups in Carlow with SICAP supports they were keen to assist the Ukrainian response effort. The page has been a great asset to both staff and volunteers in providing up to date information specifically about Carlow. The QR code also allowed individuals to be able to access registration forms on their mobile devices translated into their language of choice. As well as providing easy access this also ensured that people were fully advised regarding the use of their information and were able to give informed consent.  Apps such as Google translate have been crucial in our dealings with individuals and groups. This was essential when working with older people from the community, or individuals with limited level of English as it allowed us to talk directly to them using translation apps. The SICAP team have prioritised training in the use of these apps to aid communication.

As communication is key and can be challenging it must be acknowledged that there has been great enthusiasm within the Ukrainian community itself to support each other. Often there would be one or two people with a good level of English who would facilitate the translation of messages and documentation. These volunteers would also often translate messages or posters providing information to the larger group on events or bus timetables. Identifying and supporting leaders from within the Ukrainian community has been key in enabling the SICAP team to understand and develop appropriate responses to changing needs. We have now employed a member of the community on a part time basis as a translator and support worker.

The Be Kind Project

Carlow County Development Partnership CLG has delivered a whole of company approach to mobilise and respond the Ukrainian situation. Teams from across the company have assisted SICAP in the delivery of comprehensive supports. Our ‘Be Kind – Together we are Stronger’ project is a key example of this. Be Kind is a fledgling social enterprise and collaboration between Carlow Older Persons Forum and SICAP, supported by Carlow County Council which has been commended locally and nationally.

Based on the concept of kindness the project encourages people who have items that they don’t need to donate for distribution to those who do need them.  This project supports all our vulnerable groups across the county as well as promoting and developing a model of recycling, upcycling, and repurposing and encouraging a debate on waste, with a view to developing as a social enterprise.  It has been critical to our Ukrainian response and is a vital support for those arriving in the county, frequently with only the clothes on their back. ‘Be Kind’ has provided all sorts of items, from clothing and shoes, suitcases and bags, baby items and toys to school supplies, furniture and bedding. Open each day it has also provided an opportunity for people from different locations to mix together and find mutual support.  We also have a number of Ukrainian volunteers who have been a great help and are also using the opportunity to make friendships and improve their English.  To date over 25,000 items have been provided to the Ukrainian community in Carlow. Families from Dublin, Sligo and Donegal having also contacted the project as there is nothing similar available.

“When I came to Ireland, I only had a few things that I brought with me for me and my daughter. The Be Kind Project has meant that I have been able to get warm clothes for me and my daughter. The people there have been so helpful to my family.”  Ukrainian resident

“SICAP were quick to respond on the ground from day one of the Ukrainian arrivals. The response has been fantastic and has been ongoing and unwavering, but the most important thing is that everyone is able to access their supports not Ukrainian people alone.”  St Vincent De Paul, Carlow

Carlow Farmers Market and other supports

The local market continues to support the vulnerable across the county in partnership with SICAP through their weekly donations as do Ballon eggs.  Some of this produce has gone to assist the Ukrainian refugee situation as well as to our older persons and vulnerable families. In addition to the food donations there has been an considerable input across the county by various groups and organisations wishing to assist the ongoing work with the Ukrainian Community in Carlow. Fund raising events and activities by schools, sports clubs, and organisations as well as the local Lions Club have been essential in providing ongoing services such as transport and emergency supplies.

Ballon Rest Centre

The community spirit and welcoming nature of Ballon has been second to none. The community have opened their hearts to the Ukrainian community and have been welcoming and supportive throughout. Local donations have gone directly into the centre on a weekly basis, school equipment and uniforms have been provided, volunteers have been active and management of the centre has been excellent.  As the first rest centre in the county Carlow County Development Partnership, SICAP, worked very closely with Carlow County Council.  We had clear areas of responsibility and our services complimented each other.  Both parties put in tremendous efforts, often working 7 days a week, to support the response.

“The SICAP programme has been a great support to the Ukrainian people since they arrived at the Centre. They have been here every day dealing with queries and answering questions whilst being caring and sensitive to the needs of everyone involved.” Support Worker in a Rest Centre