Gardaí available to help people with supplies
GARDAÍ across County Wicklow are helping to support people in isolation by delivering supplies including shopping, prescriptions, pensions and even some surprises.
Sgt John Fitzpatrick of Bray Garda Station said that the role of the community policing team includes engaging with the community to help vulnerable people who maybe can’t get to the shops.
He said anyone in need can contact any garda station and someone will arrange help. Wicklow County Council has also set up a dedicated community support helpline to assist at risk members of the public in accessing non-emergency and non-medical supports and advice during the current public health emergency. The confidential phoneline service is being established by the new Covid-19 County Wicklow Community Response Forum, which includes over a dozen agencies and organisations, including the gardai.
Sgt Fitzpatrick said that in one example, Garda Adam Nolan delivered supplies to a gentleman in his 90s living in Bray. The man’s son lives in London and was very worried about his father, so the son contacted Bray Garda Station and the team stepped in.
‘Anything like that we’re delighted to help,’ said Sgt Fitzpatrick.’
He added that there is a misconception that gardaí are not out there implementing laws when it comes to the road traffic act and, for example, drink driving.
Sgt Fitzpatrick said that there has been a spike in these offences.
He said that the structure of the teams means that there has been an uplift of 20 per cent in man power.
‘Anyone taking any risks, particularly on the road, is more likely to be caught.’
He said that people are urged to report all crime as normal.
‘We are still preventing and detecting crime so don’t think we aren’t available for matters unrelated to coronavirus,’ said Sgt Fitzpatrick.
The Wicklow Community Support Line is open on 1800 868 399.
The Helpline is focused primarily on ensuring that vulnerable members of the community or those living alone can access deliveries of groceries, medicine and fuels.