Integration

Initial orientation to life in Donegal (and in Ireland) – the fundamental basics such as the different services that you will interact with in your first days, weeks and months here, and important local customs and cultural practices that you should be aware of. If you have just arrived and you have questions contact us. 

Support in gaining proficiency in the English language. In Ireland there are two official languages – Irish and English. You will have the opportunity to learn Irish in the local community, but for employment and integration, it is important that you can speak and understand English. There are different ways that you can learn and improve your English, from formal classes to informal groups and opportunities to have conversations with local native English speakers, and we can discuss these with you and support you to find which options are most suitable for your needs and your situation.

Support in finding suitable employment. You may be keen to find work here, and we will support you to discuss your options and explain the job application process here. It is important to understand that qualifications and experience in different countries may not be recognised at the same level here. Each case is individual, and you can contact us for more information on your specific qualifications and professional field.  It is also important to understand that for most jobs, you will need at least intermediate English (B1 level at a minimum) so you may need to spend time improving your English before you are able to find a job here.   Contact us for further information

Support payments for those who are not in paid employment, or are in lower paid work. There is a comprehensive social welfare system in Ireland with a wide range of supports for those who are not yet employed or who are working only part-time hours, or who receive low wages if there is a large family to support. However, access to various payments and services within the social welfare system depends on different factors such as your status and any previous tax (social insurance) contributions you have made here. You can contact us to find out more about what you may be entitled to.

Education and training – for children and adults. The education system for children begins at around 2.5 years with the ECCE programme (preschool) and finishes at around 18 years with the Leaving Certificate. Education is mandatory for all girls and boys between the ages of 6 and 16. If you would like information about how the school system works and where to go to access school placements for your child please contact us.

Furthermore, there are many opportunities for education for adults, and many are free or low in cost. You may need English at the B2 level or higher to join these courses, but you can enquire about your interests and skills and the best opportunities for you by contacting the Team.

Support to access health care in line with your needs. Depending on your health status, you may need access to different services within the health system in Ireland. We can support you with information on how to access the services that you or your family need. Contact us for more information.

Cultural, social and political participation. Once you have access to the things that you need for basic needs, you will want to begin to activate the full potential of your life here in Ireland. There are many ways that you can do this, from linking to others from a similar background to your own, to developing contacts with local organisations and people, and learning about Irish history, heritage and culture and availing of opportunities to share your cultural heritage with local people. We can share information about cultural and religious organisations in your area, community organisations that will give you the opportunity to meet others and spaces where you can learn about your rights as someone who is resident in Ireland under a particular status.   We can help you