During the first lockdown, the Association’s priority was to ensure that residents were well informed and aware of the support available within the community. Messages were posted on its website and on Facebook but not everyone uses social media or may have limited data. Hand delivering hard copy letters and newsletters raised questions about social distancing and PPE. The cost of posting was prohibitive. So, other ways to communicate were examined.

Digital versions of letters and newsletters were developed with Handheld Community and communicated by text messages to mobile phones.

The Association said this has worked well as it was able to see that messages are received and read. It also allows Blochairn to act quickly. For instance, details of the First Minister’s announcement on January 5 were relayed the following day.

Blochairn said the short, friendly, bulletin style of communicating will continue to be used after the Covid-19 lockdown is lifted.