Flooding 'Help Shop' gets underway

Residents and business people affected by the recent floods in Londonderry and the North West are to benefit from a new 'Help Shop' launched by the Government today.

A Government flooding spokesperson said the meetings would focus on the provision of practical advice ensuring that several of the key agencies including the Central Claims Unit, Social Security Agency and Western Health and Social Services, are present, and that people can get information from a variety of sources in one location.

"All the statutory agencies realise that this is a difficult time for those who have been affected by flooding and we hope that this clinic will help people get the information and advice they need quickly and conveniently," the spokesperson added.

Other members of the public not in the North West who have concerns about flooding should contact the relevant agency number.

The clinic had its first meeting hosted by Derry City Council this Friday lunchtime in the Committee Road at the Derry City Council Offices with further meetings planned.

For flooding from water mains or sewers telephone the Water Service on the Waterline number - 0845 744 0088;

For flooding on roads telephone Roads Service in one of the following areas: Eastern 028 9025 3000; Northern 028 7035 3202; Southern 028 3752 9500; Western 028 8224 1999.

For flooding from overflowing rivers and watercourses contact Rivers Agency on: Omagh office 028 8225 4900; Fermanagh office 028 6638 8529; Coleraine office 028 7034 2357; Lisburn office 028 9260 6100; Armagh office 028 3839 9111; and Greater Belfast office 028 9260 6100.

(MB)