Gas Networks Ireland receives Age Friendly Ireland approval
Gas Networks Ireland is proud to announce that its older person friendly contact number and dedicated customer service features on its website have been tested and approved by Age Friendly Ireland and its Older People’s Council. This endorsement follows an earlier thumbs up from the company’s long standing charity partner Age Action Ireland and marks a significant step in making its services more accessible to older adults, particularly as we approach the busy autumn and winter months.
Gas Networks Ireland, working with its outsource partners Fexco, has introduced a new dedicated customer care line specifically for customers aged 66 and older. By calling 1800 628 427, older customers can connect directly with a Gas Networks Ireland representative who has undergone specialised training provided by Age Friendly Ireland. This team is experienced and equipped to deliver a tailored service that meets the unique needs of older customers, ensuring a more accessible and supportive experience.
As a UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Champion for 2024, this initiative aligns with Gas Networks Ireland’s support of SDG 10, which focuses on reducing inequalities, and commitment to SDG 3, which promotes health and wellbeing for all at all ages.
Gas Networks Ireland’s Head of Customer Care and Communications, Kate Gannon said:
"By ensuring that older people can easily access our services, we are taking actionable steps towards creating a more inclusive, supportive environment for all our customers. We are delighted to have our older person-friendly contact service officially approved by Age Friendly Ireland, adding to the recognition we've already received from Age Action Ireland. This achievement not only reflects our commitment to customer service but also aligns with our role as a UN SDG Champion, working to reduce inequalities and support the wellbeing of all our customers. As we enter the colder months, it's crucial that older people feel connected and supported when accessing our services."
Age Friendly Ireland’s Head of Communications and Operations Sylvia McCarthy added:
"We are delighted with Gas Networks Ireland's older person friendly service. As we approach the colder months, it’s crucial for older people to know that companies like Gas Networks Ireland are making real strides in ensuring their services are easy to use and accessible."
Gas Networks Ireland was also recently recognised its outstanding contribution to communities across Ireland through its volunteering programmmes and social impact initiatives, winning the “Volunteering & Pro Bono Services” award at the Chambers Ireland Sustainable Business Impact Awards 2024.
One in five employees at Gas Networks Ireland participates in volunteering activities, supporting a wide range of causes, from STEAM education to helping elderly residents maintain their homes through partnerships with organisations like Age Action Ireland. This commitment to social responsibility has also earned the company the “Investing in Volunteers” accreditation.
Commenting on the significance of the award, Anne Moore, Sustainability Manager at Gas Networks Ireland said:
“Winning the Chambers Ireland Volunteering & Pro Bono Services award is a real honour for us. It reflects the heart of our company’s culture—giving back to the communities in which we live and work. We are immensely proud of our employees who generously give their time to make a positive difference.”
In 2023, more than 160 of Gas Networks Ireland’s employees volunteered to facilitate and deliver over 70 local community initiatives. These initiatives include STEM education programmes such as ‘Energize,’ which encourages sixth-class pupils to continue science subjects in secondary education, ‘Time to Count’ – a numeracy support primary school programme, and the ‘World of Work’ education and career support secondary school programme. The company also engaged in biodiversity projects, fundraising initiatives, and, of course, gardening for the elderly with Age Action Ireland.