This report provides a summary of the support ALONE delivered under the HSE Enhanced Community Care scheme in Q1 2023. It shows that compared to Q1 2022, there has been a significant increase in the number of older people engaged, assessments conducted, and interventions provided by ALONE. ALONE has also strengthened its strategic partnerships with the HSE and public health teams, and forged new collaborations with community-based organisations, a range of charities, and other referral agencies. This expansion has allowed ALONE to offer Support Coordination services to a larger number of older individuals, with a more diverse range of support options.
Key findings for Q1 2023 include:
At the end of the quarter, 20,829 older people were supported by ALONE.
There were 3,712 new referrals, with nearly half coming from external sources such as HSE referrers, primary care, and hospitals.
Among those supported, 54% reported experiencing loneliness, 44% had physical health issues, and 35% faced financial or legal challenges.
A total of 12,536 interventions were carried out, marking a 235% increase compared to Q1 2022.
93% of those assessed in Q1 received an intervention during the same quarter.
The report highlights that ALONE experienced significant growth in Q1 2023, with notable increases in assessments, and interventions. Strengthened partnerships have enabled the organisation to provide a broader range of Support Coordination services. The rise in financial interventions reflects ALONE’s collaboration with the government to support older people during the cost-of-living crisis, particularly through the Warmer Homes Scheme. Despite an increase in Housing Adaptation grants in Budget 2023, demand continues to exceed supply, prompting ALONE to advocate for the restoration of funding to 2010 levels. As an Approved Housing Body, ALONE is well-positioned to address the housing needs of older individuals.
