A new website has been launched to help young Irish people moving to the Luton area.
The site, www.thisisluton.com, has been set up by Luton Irish Forum using a legacy from the late Anne O’Hehir, a former member, as well as funding from the Irish Youth Foundation and the Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation
The site helps to address the difficulties young Irish people face when moving to the UK and finding work. For instance, the process of getting a National Insurance Number requires proof of address and offer of employment. Any problems with the application can lead to delays of up to 6 weeks, which can leave young people in difficult situations.
Luton Irish Forum’s Chief Officer Noelette Hanley said, “We have assisted several new arrivals who are facing difficulties in finding their feet. Many are sleeping on family sofas and are generally unprepared for the harsh reality of life in Luton. Many do not realise the cost of accommodation, and the large deposit required to secure a place to live. We hope that This is Luton will better inform young Irish people who are considering moving to Luton to enable them to make a decision whether they should make the move. It will also help Luton Irish Forum advise support agencies in Ireland of their needs prior to and upon arrival.”
This is Luton was formally launched by Irish Irish Ambassador, Daniel Mulhall on 24 January. Also in attendance were Virginia Lawlor from the Irish Youth Foundation, Deputy Council Leader Sian Timoney and representatives from local and national Irish and other community organisations.