Sligo Lend-A-Hand Service goes live in Sligo town.

A new initiative was launched yesterday by Sligo's Mayor, Cllr Matt Lyons.

'Lend A hand' in a volunteer programme designed to assist the elderly with minor household repairs and maintenance.

The service, which officially opens this morning, Wed 13 April, at 11am,  will use a pool of volunteers and handypersons.  All personnel have undergone extensive training and have been approved by the garda vetting programme.

No major works will be carried out by the team as the type of tasks are confined to small problems like, installing locks, door chains and bolts, installing basic domestic smoke alarms. Replacing plugs and chains to sinks and baths. Unblocking sinks, drains and toilets. Replacing light bulbs and pull cords. Replacing electric plugs and fuses.

Other tasks include, hanging curtains, ironing. Securing of floor boards/carpets and minor repairs to window frames and doors. Cutting grass /light garden work.  Moving furniture .Small painting jobs.

Mayor Lyons, speaking to SligoToday.ie, praised the organisers and volunteers for their foresight in providing this extra service for the elderly in Sligo. "This initiative will be welcomed in Sligo and with the Garda vetting, those availing of the service can rest assured that they can safely allow the volunteers to carry out the required work. Unfortunately there are unscrupulous people in our society who prey on the elderly, this programme will help eliminate that. I warmly welcome the service and if I can help in any way, I would be delighted to do so. I know that goes for each member of the council also." 

The contact number for Sligo Lend A Hand is 087-177 6386

From Sligo Today here