Kerry people register online to offer help during COVID crisis

THE people of Kerry have answered calls for help during the COVID-19 crisis, with more than 50 parties in the county registering, on new website Randall.ie, their willingness to help others affected by the restrictions in place nationwide.

Participants around the county have made themselves available to carry out chores such as dog-walking, grocery shopping, or collecting medicines on behalf of those most vulnerable to the virus.

So far, the highest number of help offers have been registered in the Tralee area, with 13 offers at the time of writing. The Corca Dhuibhne Gaeltacht area has also seen a large number of responders, nine, and there have been six such offers in Killarney; four in the Listowel area; and others dotted around the county.

The website does not post the exact address of those offering to help; instead, its administrators forward any requests for help on to those best placed to assist.

Businesses can also register to notify the public of free help they are offering, while community groups can also let people know if they require volunteers.

The website says it does not charge for providing this service and has advised those registering to offer help to not charge also.

Those who wish to have their offer of help withdrawn can do so, and the website is only expected to run for the duration of the worst of the crisis.

The initiative has met a largely positive reaction online, administrators have issued the following cautions:

“We cannot vet or endorse any of the requests for help we receive,” it said.

“Use the same caution you would use when buying a second-hand car. Speak on the phone first, and if you ever feel that something isn’t right, withdraw your offer and ask a trusted friend for advice.”

Locations where people in Corca Dhuibhne have marked themselves available to help during the crisis.