Hundreds contact council’s Covid helpline

A TOTAL of 328 people across the county had contacted Wicklow County Council’s Covid-19 Community Call Helpline by yesterday (Tuesday) morning.

The special dedicated helpline and email is open every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The service is available to elderly and vulnerable people who need urgent assistance at this time.

Operating since March 31, the helpline has already proven successful, having responded to several hundred calls.

The majority of requests are seeking assistance with delivery of shopping for those elderly and vulnerable people who are cocooning. Wicklow County Council has a large network of community groups and individuals who have volunteered their assistance during the Covid-19 emergency.

Trained staff from Wicklow County Council are operating the service.

The Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Irene

Winters, paid tribute to the huge community effort during the emergency and thanked all those who are putting their shoulders to the wheel at this difficult time.

She also paid tribute to the council’s Director of Services, Michael Nicholson, and his staff for establishing the service so quickly and efficiently and encouraged those who need help, to avail of it.

Wicklow County Council Chief Executive Frank Curran added his own appreciation to the wonderful co-operation from the Community Sector and the Council staff adding: ‘We work best when we all work together’.

The line can help people get deliveries of food, household items fuel or medications; someone to talk to or other social supports; delivery of meals; response to garda related concerns, or help with other medical or health needs.

The service can be contacted on 1800 868 399 or covidsupport@wicklowcoco.ie.