Community Connector Project

Supporting communities in Clare to respond to migration and build strong local connections

About the Programme

The Community Connector Project helps local communities respond to migration and support integration where International Protection Applicants (IPAs) live. It strengthens local cohesion by helping residents and community groups voice concerns, identify needs, and shape constructive, locally led solutions. 

Listening to all voices is at the heart of the project. Communities in Clare are supported to lead initiatives, access clear information, counter misinformation, and build connections with newcomers. The project engages communities before, during, and after new arrivals, fostering dialogue, understanding, and inclusive, community-led approaches. It works on an outreach basis in close collaboration with the SICAP team.

What Community Connections Does

The Community Connector Project engages and works with local communities across County Clare, helping build community resilience against misinformation and prejudice — working with the local community before, during and after the arrival of International Protection Applicants (IPAs). Distinct from other roles, the Community Connector focuses on residents already living in the local community as the primary focus, rather than providing services directly to IPAs. They do this by using a community development approach to strengthen capacity of communities to work together and with key voluntary and statutory organisations.

How We Work

The Community Connector uses a community development and inclusion approach, operating across six key areas:

  • Community First – understanding and responding to local residents’ concerns
  • Clear Communication – factual, timely information to counter misinformation
  • Advocacy & Capacity – supporting communities to engage with statutory bodies
  • Building Connections – developing relationships between locals and newcomers
  • Collaborative Mapping – identifying local needs, gaps, and services
  • National Learning – contributing to good practice across Ireland

Get In Touch

Contact Community Link Worker – Anneli Vaughan at avaughan@cldc.ie or call CLDC @ (065) 6866800