Calls to one-parent helpline increase by 20% in Ireland

One Family, Ireland’s leading organisation supporting one-parent families, has experienced an influx of calls to its helpline as the recession deepens.

In response, Club di Dublino – an Italian business community association formed to promote friendship within the Italian community in Ireland and between the Italian and Irish people –chose One Family to be the recipient of monies raised at their annual fundraising dinner which was held at Trinity College Dublin on Thursday 22 October. The guest speaker at the event was Senator David Norris and the Honorary President of Club di Dublino, H.E., Italian Ambassador Mr Valerio Augusto Astraldi, was guest of honour.

Karen Kiernan, Director, One Family, said ‘One Family are honoured and delighted to have been chosen to benefit from funds raised at this years Club di Dublino Annual Charity Dinner. We represent one-parent families in Ireland, many of whom are living in, or in danger of living in, poverty.’

To date there has been a 20% increase in the number of calls to Askonefamily* helpline this year. Many of these calls come from parents whose financial situations have changed due to loss of jobs and income. They are looking for information on social welfare benefits and entitlements and for support in their family life, as they face more challenging times. Others are looking for a listening ear as they negotiate the changes in their own and their children’s lives, following a relationship breakdown. Some parents may be considering returning to education or employment after time spent raising their family.

In-depth, accurate information is the key to decision making, so by providing one-parent families with up to date information along with listening support, One Family is empowering parents to make the best decisions possible for themselves and their families.

Speaking at the announcement of this year’s event Mr Aldo Aletti, President, Club di Dublino said ‘There are many synergies between Italian and Irish people and both nationalities are rich in culture. We are delighted to have Senator David Norris as guest speaker at this year’s Annual Charity Dinner and hope that the event attracts significant funds in these difficult economic times to support those in need.’