Emerging needs – Supports to the ‘new vulnerable’

Introduction/Context

As this is the last case study of the 2018 – 2022/23 SICAP programme it is fitting that we have chosen to focus on the theme of collaboration. One of the core principles of SICAP is collaboration and the ability of the programme to work with other stakeholders. LDCs are key in shaping and delivering an interagency response in addressing social exclusion or gaps in services for a particular community or target group.  In Carlow the success of the SICAP programme is amplified by strong and effective collaboration between agencies and communities, individuals and target groups.

‘Sustainable, Inclusive and Empowered Communities, the strategy to support the community and voluntary sector in Ireland 2019-2024’ outlines a vision to “create vibrant, sustainable, inclusive, empowered and self-determining communities that support the social, cultural and economic well-being of all members”. Collaboration and partnership working were key components in the development of this strategy and continued collaboration is seen as critical to the successful delivery of the strategy’s actions.  One of the commitments in the five-year strategy is the adoption of an agreed set of values and principles for collaboration and partnership working at national and local level. The values and principles will provide the foundation for all consultation, collaboration and partnership working between communities, organisations in the community and voluntary sector and Government Departments, Local and Regional Government and agencies of the State.

Locally Carlow Development embrace the principle of collaboration with a view that ‘together we are stronger’ and together we can deliver targeted, effective and creative responses to the needs and challenges facing our target groups. Established relationships of trust enable us to act quickly in crisis situations and mobilise resources swiftly.

Context

We have worked in collaboration for many years across many projects and initiatives for the betterment of the county as a whole. However, this is particularly evident over the last number of years. There is no doubt that this period has been challenging for all of us, individuals, and communities alike.  There is also no doubt that while we may all have faced our own particular challenges that none have been more adversely impacted than those experiencing social isolation and disadvantage, those already living in poverty or on the margins of society and those who are vulnerable whether because of age, physical or mental health or disability or lack of access to supports. In short, our SICAP target groups.

Working through Covid and providing a focussed and realistic response required collaboration.  This took the form of high level and working fora with key organisations and decision makers present and committed. Formal and informal communication and open and honest discussion led to wrap around supports mindful of all safety requirements.

The lingering aftereffects of Covid is still evident in our communities. Many, once thriving, groups have been severely hit by the fallout from Covid.  Community leaders and individuals who passionately engaged in groups and were the driving force of change and activity within our towns and villages are finding it difficult to regain the momentum they once had. SICAP is working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and groups to re-establish and to identify new leaders and support their development.

Fortunately, many events and celebrations have returned in person, such as Africa Day and International Womens Day. Positive Aging Week was a great success showing that older persons are starting to feel safe again, although it must be noted that this is not universal.

The Ukrainian war plunged many agencies and communities into an unknown situation demanding an immediate and effective response.  This challenge still continues.  However, working together with all stakeholders and sharing experience and understanding has ensured that we can provide holistic supports. This year has also seen the move from crises management of the Ukrainian response to developing more long term supports.  While we and others continue to roll out a humanitarian response to the Ukrainian situation and International Protection Applicants, we are also concentrating on supports which will encourage sustainable inclusion and integration.

While Integration and refugees supports have of course been at the forefront of service delivery with County Development Partnership and the County Council in Carlow, we continue to work across all sectors of disadvantage.  Inflation and the rising costs of fuel and staples has also impacted both our target groups and our ability to respond to their needs.  Again, Covid has not gone away as is verified by the recent rise in cases, and is still of concern, particularly when working with a population that are vulnerable and may not be vaccinated.

Housing issues (while not in our remit) is leading to increasing concerns in the community with families and children coming to us for support. The full opening of Carlow Womens Centre will provide innovative and creative opportunities, advice and solutions to a range of situations. A committee of stakeholders and users is in the process of being set up.

We recognise the importance of research, (evidence based approaches and advocacy) to ensure that we are doing the best to support and advocate for all impacted by poverty or exclusion. Over the life of the SICAP programme we have led and/or collaborated with up to twenty research papers, strategies and submissions with other projects planned for 2024.

Our experience and positive collaborative networks continue to inform our actions and activities and enables us to draw on all the resources that are available to us.