Longford Local Authority Integration Team

Who are We?

LAIT Longford are one of the many new teams set up in local authorities around the country to help people living in IPAS accommodation find and use the services in their area. The teams not only support international protection applicants but also people with status, those on the Irish Refugee Protection Programme and Ukrainian Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection.

What We Do?

The goal of the LAIT is to help individuals and families become independent, settle into their new communities, and participate in Irish life.  LAIT Longford does this by connecting people to important services that can help them integrate into the community.

 LAIT Longford supports the integration into local communities by:

  • Mapping and signposting local services relevant to the needs of those we are working with;
  • Linking individuals to education, training, employment, sport/leisure, and community supports;
  • Holding regular clinics in accommodation centres, the community and online to discuss needs and support access to services;
  • Facilitating social integration initiatives to reduce isolation and build networks with both co-ethnic and cross-community peers.

 LAIT Longford can provide critical follow-on and complementary supports including:

  • Ensuring individuals are aware of their rights and entitlements;
  • Connecting individuals to health services, education, training, employment, sport, and leisure opportunities;
  • Supporting community and peer engagement to combat isolation;
  • Assisting with practical needs such as applying for PPSN, medical card, and registering with local services;
  • Identifying local wrap-around supports for particularly vulnerable people.

Find out more about the Local Authority Integration Teams on Local Government Ireland Website here: Local Authority Integration Teams (LAIT) information

Find out more about how the Local Authority Integration Teams support integration from day one

Contact us: integration@longfordcoco.ie

LAIT Frequently Asked Questions

What is Integration?

Integration means enabling everyone to feel part of the community — socially, economically, and culturally. In Longford, integration involves creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds to live, work, and participate together in local life.

The LAIT supports this by connecting individuals and families with services, providing information, and promoting inclusion across local projects and community groups.

Who is the LAIT?

The Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT) in Longford County Council is part of a national initiative supporting the inclusion of people seeking international protection, refugees, and migrants. The Longford LAIT includes staff from the Community and Enterprise Department and works closely with partner agencies to coordinate supports in housing, education, health, employment, and community participation.

How do I contact the Local Authority Integration Team?

You can contact the team directly by email or phone:

Email:integration@longfordcoco.ie
Phone:043 334 33 39
Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Where is the Local Authority Integration Team based?

The team is based within Longford County Council, Camlin Court, Longford Town, N39TF64.
Meetings or appointments with the LAIT can be arranged in person at the Council Offices, in local Family Resource Centres, or other community venues across the county.

What happens during a Clinic or Appointment?

If you have an appointment with the LAIT, the meeting is private and confidential. During your clinic session, the LAIT can:

  • Provide information about local supports and services
  • Help with referrals to housing, health, or education providers
  • Support you in accessing translation or interpretation if required
  • Link you with community activities or training opportunities

If needed, the team can arrange follow-up meetings or connect you to partner agencies for further support. 

How can I learn about what's on in the community?

You can find information about local events and classes through:

  • Longford County Council News and Events
  • Longford Library Events 
  • Longford Sports Partnership
  • Longford Volunteer Centre
  • Community noticebooks and social media pages for Family Resource Centres and Longford Community Resources CLG
  • Visit Longford Tourism for information on attractions, festivals, and heritage sites. 
  • Follow the Longford Tourism Channel on WhatsApp for information on events and attractions in County Longford.
  • Explore Visit Longford for visitor guides and outdoor activities. 
  • Discover Walking and Cycling Routes, including the Royal Canal Greenway and scenic forest trails. 

The LAIT also shares information through local networks and meetings — ask to be added to our community mailing list.

Does the Local Authority Integration Team provide housing support?

The LAIT does not allocate housing or make housing decisions.
However, the team can:

  • Explain housing options
  • Provide contact details for the Housing Department and Homeless Services 
  • Help you understand the process for applying for local authority housing or rent supports

For housing information, visit the Housing Services page