We work with people over 65 years of age, although currently the majority of people who avail of a volunteer are over 75 years. In allocating volunteers, priority is given to those who are considered most vulnerable due to physical/mental health, because of a lack of social outlets or ongoing experience of loneliness or isolation.
Who can make a referral?
Although we hope to expand our programme, at the moment we welcome referrals from HSE health centres (GP's, Public Health Nurses, Community Mental Health Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Social Workers etc.) in the following locations: Balally, Ballybrack, Ballinteer, Blackrock, Booterstown, Cabinteely, Carrickmines, Churchtown, Clonskeagh, Cornelscourt, Cruagh, Dalkey, Deansgrange, Donnybrook, Dundrum, Dun Laoighaire, Foxrock, Goatstown, Glasthule,Glenageary, Glencullen, Johnstown, Kilmacud, Kilternan, Leopardstown, Loughlinstown, Monkstown, Mount Merrion, Milltown, Rathfarnham, Rathmines, Ranelagh, Sallynoggin, Sandyford, Shankhill, Stepaside, Stillorgan, Tibradden, Ticknock.
How to make a referral?
Please contact the office to have a referral form sent to you: Phone 01 295 1053 Email:
info@makingconnections.ie In order to process the referral, it is a requirement that the form is completed in full and that it is signed by the older person as well as the referee. Please alert us to any relevant information not covered by questions on the referral form. We will contact you if we need additional information.
Follow up after referral
- We will phone the person referred to us to arrange a home assessment visit and to give them information about Making Connections.
- If it is clear that the person wants a volunteer and that they will benefit from a regular visit, we will look for a suitable volunteer.
- Time‐frame for matching a volunteer can depend on a number of factors including - availability of volunteers for the location in question and length of time for Garda vetting approval (currently 10 weeks). We will inform you if we are unable to provide a volunteer and suggest alternative supports.
Please remember
- The volunteer is not a substitute for home help, family or medical support. The role is one of companionship.
- We place a lot of importance on creating a ‘best fit'. Experience has taught us that when the right ‘connection' is made, it is powerful. We value your opinion a lot in this regard.
- Any health or other issues arising for the older person during the time they are being visited by a volunteer will be referred back to the referral agent.