More measures to help vulnerable people in rural areas

An existing service to help vulnerable people in rural areas stay connected will now be repurposed to help with deliveries of essentials.

The measures have been put in place as part of a working partnership between the Department for Infrastructure and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.

It aims to better support those in rural areas who may feel most isolated and vulnerable during the coronavirus outbreak by helping with deliveries of groceries and prescriptions.

Community transport operators funded by Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon’s department will now be able to reappropriate Dial-A-Lift services to provide essential help under the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme funded by Rural Affairs Minister Edwin Poots’ department.

Mr Poots said: "Because of the coronavirus, this service now needs to turn full circle to help protect the lives of the most vulnerable in our society.

“So rather than transporting people to services, the services must now be transported to the people.”

Ms Mallon added: “At this critical time in the fight against Covid-19, I want to do all I can to support wider efforts and this is a small but important step in supporting those who are among our most vulnerable.

“I'm delighted that myself and Minister Poots have been able to come together to support efforts to better serve our communities.”

Farmland across the Glens of Antrim. Credit: PA

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