How We Can Support You
South Kerry’s population is more diverse than that of the State, and its diversity has been increasing over recent decades.
According to data from the 2022 Census, South Kerry continues to experience significant diversity, with the migrant population now representing approximately 22% of the total population, well above the national average of 12%.
A key priority of SKDP is to support the integration of Refugees and International Protection Applicants in South Kerry through the provision of community, employment, educational and social supports.
Language barriers remain a significant challenge for many migrants, limiting their ability to fully participate in community life. To address these barriers, SKDP provide conversational and intensive structured English language classes, support migrant led community groups and run social and inter-cultural events that foster inclusion and reduce isolation.
SKDP delivers a broad range of support services, including
- Providing access to Failte Isteach, a conversational English language programme and intensive structured English Language Support.
- Supporting the establishment of local community groups for new communities.
- Developing and providing activities for children and young people.
- Providing supports that help people access training or education, find a job or start self-employment, and improve their overall wellbeing
- Promoting and supporting volunteering opportunities
- Through outreach support, information clinics and referrals to other agencies/supports, providing information, one-to-one advice services and guidance for individuals and families on a broad range of topics and facilitating access to key supports and services, including:
Providing programmes where participants can learn more about Irish society, culture, rights, public services, finance, education, and employment, equipping them with practical knowledge, skills, and resources to integrate into community and professional life in Ireland confidently.
We are committed to providing strong and comprehensive support for Refugees and International Protection Applicants. To ensure this, we collaborate closely with key agencies and partner organisations. SKDP leads the South Kerry Local Response Team (a local group coordinating supports for new arrivals) and actively contributes to the Kerry Community Integration Forum, its subgroups, and the Killarney Local Area Response Team.
If you are a refugee or an international protection applicant and would like to access our supports outlined above, please contact our SICAP Intercultural Support Workers and/or our English Language Supports Coordinator – Contact Details in the SICAP Programme section of our site – SICAP Officers