Publication
Social Connections: Resources
From Healthy Ireland; Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
From Healthy Ireland; Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
Volunteer Ireland – If you would like to volunteer in a formal role, go to the Volunteer Ireland website. You can find a role in an area that interests you and can commit as much or as little time as you like.
Local Sports Partnerships – Your Local Sports Partnership should be able to direct you to any suitable physical activity groups or events that are available in your area.
Libraries – Your local library provides much more than just books! You can also use their online services for books, magazines and their e-learning platforms to access over 400 different courses. Libraries also host events and talks on various subjects from health to local history. Contact your local library.
Men’s Sheds – A Men’s Shed is a place where men are able to gather and/or work on meaningful projects at their own pace, in their own time and in the company of other men and where the primary objective is to advance the health and well-being of the participating men. Find your local shed.
Women’s Sheds – Women's Sheds were set up for women of all ages to re-connect with themselves and their wider community. You can find more information on the Women’s Sheds Facebook page or contact them at Irelandswomenssheds@gmail.com
Fitline from Age and Opportunity – FitLine is a great way to help people who want to feel a bit healthier but just don’t have the time or information on where and how to take that first step. Callers to FitLine can find out about clubs, groups, and facilities in their area. They will also be able to gets lots of ideas about how they can do simple physical activities as part of their day-to-day routine to suit their lifestyle. Call 1800 303 545 or 087-6211767, or email fitline@ageandopportunity.ie
Cultural Companions from Age and Opportunity – Cultural Companions aims to provide increased opportunities for older people wishing to engage with arts and culture, but who have no one to go with. Contact 01 805 7713 or email arts@ageandopportunity.ie
Alone – National Support and Referral line for older people – If you are over 60 years old and in need of advice, support or information, you can call Alone’s National Support and Referral Line, seven days a week from 8am – 8pm on 0818 222024.
Pet Adoption or Fostering – Fostering or adopting a pet can be a hugely positive experience. Contact ISPCA or Dogs Trust for more information.
Technology Resources from Age Action – Beginners Computer and Smartphone Training. This resource will help people who are new to using computers, smartphones and the internet find information and services that may be of interest to them.
Seniorline from Third Age Ireland – SeniorLine is a confidential listening service for older people provided by trained older volunteers. Call 1800 80 45 91. Lines are open every day 10am to 10pm.
Friendly Call Service from Friends of the Elderly – The Friendly Call Service offers the opportunity to receive a regular telephone call from a trained part time volunteer. The aim of the call is to share conversation and offer support. The service is available to anyone who feels that they would benefit from having a regular chat with a caring and compassionate Friends of the Elderly Team Member. Email info@friendsoftheelderly.ie or telephone 01-8731855 for more information.
Meals on Wheels – Meals on Wheels deliver healthy meals to older people in communities nationwide helping to maintain their independence and health while also providing community connection and support. Find out more and locate Meals on Wheels providers.
Active Retirement – There are over 550 local associations that help retired people to enjoy a full and active life and to advocate for them. These are independent local groups, run by volunteers, whose members decide the activities on offer. Find your local group.
All Ireland Social Prescribing Network – Social prescribing began as a community-led movement to address the challenges of social isolation, fear and loneliness, often associated with a lack of community connection and a support network. HSE-funded Social Prescribing services are now available in over 30 locations around the country. These services are delivered in partnership with community and voluntary organisations such as Family Resource Centres and Local Development Companies. Find out more here
Local Authorities – Your local authority should be able to direct you to relevant community initiatives and activities in your area, such as classes, groups, or community gardens. Or you could contact your local community centre or citizens information centre.
Creative Ireland – In each of the 31 local authorities, the Creative Ireland Programme has established a Culture and Creativity Team, which brings together local expertise in arts, heritage, libraries, enterprise and community engagement, to foster collaboration and spark new initiatives. Find out what creative initiatives are happening in your area.
Get Ireland Walking – Walking has been shown to have great health benefits including benefits to our physical, mental and social wellbeing. Find a local walking group.
parkrun – parkrun is a free, community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. parkrun is 5k and takes place every Saturday morning at 9.30am. It is welcoming and inclusive, there is no time limit and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome to come along. Find your local parkrun.
Parentline.ie – Parentline offers support, guidance and information on all aspects of being a parent and the reassurance that, whatever the problem, you’re not the first parent to face it. Call - 01 8733500.
Family Resource Centres – Family Resource Centres provide a range of services from provision of information, advice and support to target groups and families, a focal point for onward referrals to main stream service providers, delivering education courses and training opportunities and the establishment and maintenance of new community groups to meet local needs. Find your nearest centre.
Day Centres – HSE funded Day Centres are a crucial part of the social care provision for people in communities nationwide. Through they activities and facilities Day Centres provide physical activity, cognitive stimulation, enhanced nutrition, healthcare monitoring and social work support for older people and people with disabilities. Find out more on the HSE website.
HSE – For health information, advice, supports and service go to the HSE website.