Guide launched to support new arrivals from around the world to Buncrana

A new community guide designed to support residents at the International Protection Accommodation Service [IPAS] centres in Buncrana has officially launched.

And the new arrivals to Inishowen would certainly appear to be in safe hands, since one of those to attend the launch was Garda Shaun Patton, the star Donegal goalkeeper who will play in the All-Ireland final against Kerry next weekend.

The guide, which offers practical and welcoming advice, was inspired by IPAS resident Elizabeth Fawibe, who arrived in Buncrana from Nigeria a year ago.

The guide’s content and structure were brought to life over the past number of months by Patricia Higgins, the Connecting Communities Officer at Inishowen Development Partnership (IDP).

“This guide is the result of months of collaboration, listening, and learning,” explains Patricia.

“Elizabeth’s vision gave us the starting point, and I was honoured to help bring it to life. It’s designed to be both informative and empowering, helping new residents feel more at home and connected from day one.”

Elizabeth praised the work of Patricia for helping to make her idea about the guide a reality.

"When I first arrived in Buncrana, everything felt overwhelming,” said Elizabeth.

“It wasn’t until I connected with the people at IDP, the Exchange, ChangeMakers and the Donegal Volunteer Centre that I learned that people here want to help. “

Elizabeth wants to ensure that new arrivals don’t feel alone and hopes the guide will make their journey through the International Protection system a bit easier.

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Meanwhile, as part of IDP’s ongoing commitment to supporting integration and inclusion, the organisation has also announced the appointment of Alison McLaughlin as a full-time member of the Connecting Communities team.

“Alison’s appointment reflects our long-term commitment to building inclusive, welcoming communities across Inishowen. With more people arriving and settling here, it’s vital that we continue to grow our capacity to support them meaningfully,” said IDP Team Lead Denise McCool.

The guide is part of a broader effort by IDP to foster inclusion and access to services for all residents. Patricia explains how the guide is now available in its current form via IDP’s website, and will soon be translatable into a wide range of languages. For more information visit: www.inishowen.ie/publications