In a bold move towards supporting community-driven initiatives, AXA Ireland, the country's leading insurer, has recently allocated over €130,000 to bolster prominent women's groups throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland. Spearheaded by the AXA Ireland Fund, this substantial contribution signifies a resounding commitment to fostering grassroots efforts aimed at social empowerment and positive change.
Among the recipients of this generous support stands The Great Care Co-op, a trailblazing endeavor that marks Ireland's inaugural foray into establishing a care workers’ cooperative within the home care sector. Founded by a group of dedicated migrant women, The Great Care Co-Op represents a beacon of hope in an industry challenged by concerns such as low wages, exploitation, and discrimination.
Since its inception in 2017, The Great Care Co-op has tirelessly advocated for a fairer, more equitable model of care provision. Grounded in principles of respect, dignity, and autonomy, this cooperative seeks to revolutionize the way care is delivered, with a steadfast commitment to enhancing the quality of life for older adults across communities.
At the heart of The Great Care Co-op's ethos lies a profound belief in the importance of fostering social connections, maintaining active roles within the community, and prioritizing overall health and well-being. By addressing the pervasive issues of loneliness, vulnerability, and declining health associated with aging, the cooperative aims to empower individuals to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.
With a current staff complement of 14 members serving 30 clients, predominantly older adults requiring assistance to live independently at home, The Great Care Co-op has already made significant strides in reshaping the landscape of home care provision. Building upon its success, the cooperative now sets its sights on expansion, with plans to establish an additional five care hubs spanning across Dublin and Wicklow.
The recent infusion of funds from the AXA Ireland Fund couldn't have come at a more opportune time for The Great Care Co-op. This financial support not only facilitates the expansion of their services but also enables the cooperative to offer improved employment conditions and enhanced financial compensation for its workforce, predominantly comprising women.
Mariaam Bhatti, Co-Founder of The Great Care Co-op, underscores the organization's unwavering dedication to positive aging, sustainable communities, and the pursuit of meaningful work. Through their collective efforts, The Great Care Co-op endeavors to realize a vision of a better world—one where compassion, fairness, and inclusivity reign supreme.
The AXA Ireland Fund continues to champion local initiatives that address pressing societal challenges, with a particular emphasis on empowering women and fostering community resilience. To learn more about the fund and its recipients, please visit https://www.axa.ie/about/the-axa-ireland-fund/
