Irish Red Cross helpline available

Irish Red Cross helpline available for people distressed by flood damage 

Compassionate listening combined with practical guidance 

The Irish Red Cross has launched a dedicated phone helpline (01 642 4648) today (Friday 30^th January), manned by Irish Red Cross staff and volunteers, to support people distressed by flood damage to their home, property or business. The helpline is for people who would like to speak to someone who can provide them with a supportive ‘listening ear’ and make them aware of other Government or local authority support services.  

It is not an emergency services phoneline. Anyone in need of on-the-ground help from emergency services should call 112 / 999.  

Deirdre Garvey, Secretary General, Irish Red Cross said, “We are very aware that people are of course feeling distressed as a result of flood damage to their home or business caused by Storm Chandra. Compassionate listening combined with practical guidance and support are important elements of the immediate humanitarian response. While this won’t fix the structural damage it can be a valuable support to people as they try to recover from such traumatic events. We would encourage anyone who would like to avail of a listening ear or be signposted to other available supports, including the flood support scheme for small businesses and voluntary organisations, to call our phone helpline on 01 642 4648 which will be answered by a trained volunteer or member of staff. The Irish Red Cross is here to help and support communities at this most distressing time.” 

The helpline (01 642 4648) will operate from today Friday 30th January over the bank holiday and until required, between 09:00am to 6:00pm daily. 

Relevant phone numbers:  

• Irish Red Cross Helpline: 01 642 4648 
• Contact SDCC at 01414900 or our out of hours emergency number 01 4574907. Support is also available for households and businesses affected by Storm Chandra more information here.
• All updated government information can be found at  https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-the-taoiseach/news/storm-response/