SINN Féin’s Karen Mullan has welcomed the news that the Department for Communities has been working with AdviceNI and other key stakeholders this week to introduce a Freephone Helpline to assist those in vulnerable groups to access information, advice and guidance in relation to COVID-19.
Said the Foyle MLA: “I would like to commend the Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey and her department for this initiative.
“The Covid-19 Community Helpline service will be delivered by Advice NI working with delivery partners throughout the community.
“The service is now operational and will be open seven days a week from 9 am to 5 pm.
“Those people in the vulnerable group have already got a letter or will shortly receive a letter from their Doctor advising them that they are in this group and will include the helpline number.”
NHS 111 will continue to be used for clinical inquiries; the new COVID19 Community Helpline will connect people to practical or emotional support.
The existing Independent Freephone Welfare Changes Helpline, 0808 802 0020, has been re-branded and utilised for this new ‘Covid-19 Community Helpline’.
Whilst we are in the early stages of implementing this service, we will look at usage patterns and, if needed, will move to extend the service beyond 9am-5pm.
The Helpline service will also offer e-mail and text message response facility.
Telephone: 0808 802 0020
Email: [email protected]
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