Finders International Ireland has chosen to support two good causes this year at both ends of the age spectrum – Age Action Ireland and Jigsaw.

Age Action Ireland’s vision is for Ireland to become the best country in which to grow older. The organisation supports and advocates for equality and human rights for all older people.

In addressing ageing, Age Action Ireland’s work includes influencing perspectives on and responses to ageing. This pursuit of equality and human rights is underpinned by its work to promote ageing in place, life‐long learning, and health and wellbeing for older people, empowering them to live as active citizens.

Challenging attitudes

They also challenge attitudes to ageing and older people. Age Action Ireland’s services and programmes support older people and their families to live full and independent lives. The services include Care & Repair – a service to help keep people living in their own homes in increased safety and comfort.

The service uses trustworthy volunteers to carry out small DIY jobs free of charge for older people, such as fixing shelves, changing locks, painting and decorating, moving furniture and gardening.

Jigsaw exists to make sure every young person’s mental health is valued and supported. The organisation’s strategy seeks to influence change, strengthen communities and deliver services.

Influencing change

To influence change, Jigsaw wants to use its experience and knowledge to create a more supportive environment for young people, and secure changes to awareness levels, policies and funding.

They believe in a community-based holistic approach, and thus work towards informing, supporting and educating everyone across Ireland about young people’s mental health.

Jigsaw runs youth mental health services and offers support, such as early intervention services that are aimed to be as accessible, visible, effective and inclusive as possible.

Maeve Mullin, Finders Ireland’s senior researcher, said: “We’re delighted to support two such worthy causes, and will be finding ways we can contribute to both throughout 2021. Finders International are strong believers in giving back to our community, and we hope this contribution can make a difference to young and older people in Ireland.”