Social inclusion programme launches first public study on tackling isolation among older people in Meath
A social inclusion programme has released its first ever public case study to support older people in Meath, highlighting efforts to reduce isolation and strengthen community participation.
The case study, launched jointly by Meath County Council, the Meath Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), and Meath Partnership, was unveiled at an event in the Thrive Centre of Business Excellence and was released alongside a second initiative, the new Meath Age Friendly Supports and Services Index for older people.
The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2025 Case Study, Belonging at Every Age: SICAP’s Holistic Support for Older People Across Meath, outlines targeted work carried out to support older residents, particularly those in isolation or from disadvantaged communities, including people impacted by educational disadvantage, long-term unemployment, low-paid households, people with disabilities, heads of one-parent families, and Travellers and Roma.
The case study focuses on four key actions most relevant to older people: Meath Befriending Network, Folláine, Teach Mná, and Pobal le Chéile.
According to the report, between January and May 2025, SICAP staff and volunteers supported older people in Meath more than 250 times through one-to-one visits, group workshops, and countywide events.
During this period, 94 older adults received wellness and housing supports through Folláine, 40 people benefited from weekly befriender visits, 135 attended the Seniors Information and Wellbeing Day, more than 50 gained digital skills through Pobal le Chéile, 20 creative workshops were run by Teach Mná, and three new community gardens were established by older people with intergenerational support.
One woman in her 70s, living alone, now receives weekly visits, access to transport via Flexibus, and financial guidance from MABS, describing her life as “so much better than before.”
Another woman in her late 70s with mobility issues received a new heating system, garden maintenance, food aid, and weekly befriender visits, reducing her risk of injury and isolation.
An Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Cllr Wayne Harding, said the work demonstrates strong cooperation between agencies.
“This is an example of the practical cooperation between service providers in Meath in providing solutions and supports where they are needed most. Belonging at Every Age tells a story of compassion, community resilience and cooperation between service providers,” he said.
Cllr Harding also announced the launch of the new resource guide.
He said: “I am delighted to announce the availability of a new Supports and Services Index for Older People. This resource will make it easier for older people and their families to find the right supports quickly and confidently, helping them stay connected and safe in their communities.”
Seamus McGee, Chair of the Meath LCDC, noted the importance of making the case study public for the first time.
“Annually, we agree a case study theme and approve the final report, but this year we wanted to share it widely. It illustrates the value and impact of SICAP and the coordination and cooperation that is fundamental to the success of SICAP and Meath LCDC.”
Meath Partnership CEO Colin Ludlow said the findings highlight the real-world effect of targeted supports.
“SICAP is about more than programmes—it’s about people. This case study demonstrates how targeted supports can transform lives, particularly for older people who may feel isolated. Our team is proud to work alongside Meath County Council and other partners to deliver real, meaningful change in communities across the county.”
Meanwhile, Valerie McHugh, Meath Age Friendly County Manager, said the new Index will help older people access supports more easily.
“By bringing together information in one place, we are empowering people to stay connected, safe, and supported. This complements the SICAP actions perfectly and reflects our shared commitment to making Meath an Age Friendly County.”