Defective Concrete Block Crisis Support Hub

The Redress Focus Groups have been working on a proposed DCB Support Hub to aid those affected by the Defective Concrete Blocks (DCB) crisis in County Donegal, Ireland since 2021. The proposed hub would provide a variety of resources, including information on the DCB scheme and other related grants, support with the application process, temporary accommodation assistance, practical help with the rebuild before, during and after, up to date and accurate information on all aspects of this journey, and info on mental health services available for those affected. The group has engaged with government officials, politicians and the Ombudsman for Children to advocate for increased support for those affected by the crisis. The sources here include a detailed proposal for the hub, surveys and polls on the need for such a hub, and correspondence with government officials.

We wish to thank the following people for their ongoing support and efforts in trying to get this vital resource in place. Padraig McLaughlin TD, Thomas Pringle TD, Pearse Doherty TD, 100% Redress Party, Cllr Declan Meehan.

Vision of a DCB Support Hub Document
Click here to view the document

Dealing with the Defective Concrete Block (DCB) Crisis can be overwhelming. You are not alone – this is a homeowner led initiative, by homeowners, for homeowners to support each other every step of the way.

The Support Hub will be a safe space designed to empower, guide, and uplift you.

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So what exactly is the DCB Crisis Support Hub?

The Support Hub will be a physical and welcoming space where homeowners affected by the Defective Concrete Blocks Crisis can find practical end to end assistance, up to the minute accurate information, and the emotional support they need.

Currently there is nothing like this in place or planned but The Support Hub and the services it will provide are essential .

Our mission is to help you rebuild your life, address your concerns, and navigate the complex challenges posed by this crisis.

How We Envisage Helping You

1.

Practical Guidance & Bespoke Services:

Trained staff would be ready to assist you with practical needs, guiding you through the arduous application process, and connecting you with essential resources. We also aim to provide a truly practical service, tailored to your particular needs. Our dedicated and skilled teams would be available to book to uninstall delicate and complex items in your house, wrap and remove them to storage, and when the time comes, deliver them back and reinstall them – whether it’s bathware or built-in units like kitchens and wardrobes. This personalised service extends to a range of needs that you might require, including a thorough cleaning service for when you’re ready to move back into your home.

2.

Information Central:

Stay up-to-date with accurate information about the crisis, from its underlying science to the latest developments, helping you make informed decisions.

3.

Holistic Support:

We understand the emotional toll of this crisis. Our hub aims to outreach and collaborate with a wide range of local professionals and organisations to offer mental health resources as well as a supportive community of trained individuals in various areas who truly understand what you’re going through.

4.

Rebuilding Solutions:

Whether it’s architectural insights or building options, we will reach out to provide information on options and tailored solutions as you embark on your rebuilding journey. Information stations and talks on these topics and many more will also feature as part of the services the hub intends to provide.

Our Aim

Our aim is to provide a comprehensive and nurturing space where homeowners affected by the Defective Blocks crisis would be able to find support, information, and tailored solutions to rebuild their lives.

Our Purpose

We envisage the purpose of the Defective Blocks Crisis Support Hub as a place to facilitate the rebuilding process by offering practical assistance, mental health resources, and a supportive community, ultimately aiding individuals in navigating this crisis.

Our Intention

With the Defective Concrete Blocks Support Hub, we intend to create a physical place where individuals can access practical guidance, emotional support, accurate information, and expert insights.

The Concept

Empowering, Rebuilding and Healing for all affected by the Defective Concrete Crisis in Donegal and beyond.

The Vision

Our vision at the RFG Support Hub is to be your guiding light during the challenges posed by the Defective Blocks crisis. We envision a community united in rebuilding lives and restoring hope.

The Goal

Our ultimate goal is to stand together with those affected by the Defective Blocks crisis, offering a holistic approach to rebuilding not only homes but also lives, fostering resilience and unity.

How you can get involved

Admin & Funding Experience

If you have experience in admin, funding applications, setting up an organisation or charity please get in touch with us to help us make the DCB Support Hub a reality via the contact information below or through our contact page. Consider joining the Support Hub Focus Group or becoming part of the newly formed Redress Focus Groups Committee.

Philanthropists & Investors

If you are a philanthropist, investor, the owner of a premises or small piece of land where a cabin could be placed then please get in touch. All ideas and offers are very much welcome. We are exploring all avenues at the moment.

Help to create awareness

Share a link to this page to create awareness for the need for the hub.

Contact Representatives & Authorities

Contact our local and national representatives, authorities and departments. Email a link to this page and give your thoughts on why you believe the DB Support Hub is an essential need and why we need them to help us push for this facility at any and all opportunities.

Basic Estimates of Costings

Details to be confirmed and added. Please check back later.

Where it Began

The Support Hub proposal came about in late 2021 with homeowners coming together in recognition of the essential need for a hub and to begin to find a pathway forward for it to become a reality.

After the formation of the Redress Focus Groups in January 2023 the Support Hub Focus Group was formed as part of the Redress Focus Groups initiative and more homeowners got involved.

Since that this focus group have been working hard on developing the idea and the need for the hub as well as exploring funding pathways.

The Support Hub Focus Group members are Roisin Gallagher, Karen Hamilton, Pamela Byrne, Peter Fox and Danny Diver

Get in Touch

EMAIL: info@redressfocusgroups.ie

Consequences of unmet needs of a community during a crisis

The consequences of a community not having their needs met during a crisis or humanitarian crisis can vary widely depending on the nature of the crisis, the community’s existing vulnerabilities, and the level of response provided by humanitarian agencies and governments. Below are general insights into the potential outcomes based on historical and well-documented trends.

1. Health Impacts: Lack of access to essential services such as medical care, clean water, sanitation, and nutrition can lead to increased mortality rates, spread of diseases, malnutrition, and deteriorating public health conditions. This is particularly concerning during outbreaks of diseases like cholera, malaria, or viral infections.

2. Food Security and Nutrition: Insufficient access to food and nutrition can lead to malnutrition, stunting (in children), and micronutrient deficiencies. These health issues can have long-term effects on physical and cognitive development, affecting the community’s overall well-being and future prospects.

3. Economic Consequences: Communities affected by a crisis often face disruptions to their livelihoods, leading to loss of income and economic instability. This can perpetuate cycles of poverty and hinder economic recovery even after the crisis subsides.

4. Displacement: In many cases, communities that cannot meet their basic needs may be forced to migrate or become internally displaced, seeking safety, resources, and support in other areas. This can lead to overcrowding, strain on host communities, and challenges related to providing essential services in new locations.

5. Social Unrest and Conflict: When people’s basic needs are not met, it can lead to increased social tensions, frustration, and even conflict within and among communities. Competition for limited resources can exacerbate existing divisions and lead to violence.

6. Education Disruptions: Lack of access to education facilities and resources during a crisis can hinder children’s learning and development. This can have long-term consequences for human capital development and the overall progress of a community.

7. Psychosocial Impact: A lack of support and resources during a crisis can have severe psychological and emotional effects on individuals and communities. Mental health issues can arise or be exacerbated, leading to long-term consequences if not addressed.

8. Vulnerability to Exploitation: Communities facing crises are often more vulnerable to exploitation, including human trafficking, forced labour, and gender-based violence. Lack of protective measures can expose individuals to such risks.

9. Loss of Infrastructure: Infrastructure such as homes, schools, hospitals, and roads can be damaged or destroyed during crises, making recovery more challenging and prolonging the time it takes for the community to regain stability.

10. Long-Term Development Setbacks: A failure to meet basic needs during a crisis can set back a community’s development trajectory. It can take years or even decades to rebuild infrastructure, restore economic stability, and improve social conditions.

It’s important to note that the severity of these consequences can be mitigated through effective humanitarian response, collaboration among various stakeholders (including governments and non governmental organisations), and proactive planning for crisis situations. The nature and effectiveness of response efforts can greatly influence the outcomes experienced by communities facing crises.

Reputable Organisations and Sources
Where to find evidence based research on the consequences laid out above

The following is a list of reputable organisations and sources that regularly publish reports and studies on the impacts of crises and humanitarian situations. You can search for their publications to find the specific statistics and trends you’re looking for:

1. United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA): OCHA provides regular updates and reports on humanitarian crises, emergencies, and their impacts on communities. They publish situation reports, assessments, and analysis.

2. United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF): UNICEF focuses on the well-being of children and families in crisis situations. They publish reports on issues such as child nutrition, health, education, and protection.

3. World Food Programme (WFP): WFP is the food assistance branch of the United Nations and often releases reports on food security, hunger, and nutrition in crisis-affected areas.

4. World Health Organization (WHO): WHO publishes data and reports on public health impacts during crises, including disease outbreaks, access to healthcare, and sanitation.

5. International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC): The ICRC provides insights into the humanitarian consequences of conflict situations, including displacement, healthcare access, and protection issues.

6. Oxfam: Oxfam publishes research and reports on a wide range of humanitarian issues, including the impacts of crises on vulnerable populations and communities.

7. ReliefWeb: ReliefWeb is a humanitarian information source that aggregates reports, articles, and data from various humanitarian organisations, providing a comprehensive view of crises and their impacts.

8. The Humanitarian Data Exchange (HDX): HDX is an initiative by OCHA to provide open access to data on humanitarian crises. It’s a platform where you can find datasets, maps, and visualisations related to various crises

Specific and Local statistics from recent surveys carried out by IDP and MAG to be released from IDP Oct ‘23 and unknown as yet from MAG.