The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2024–2028 is changing lives across Ireland. Funded to tackle poverty and social exclusion, SICAP provides practical and personal support to individuals, community groups, and agencies working on the ground.
Interactions Research in collaboration with The Outcome was proud to explore how this support is helping New Arrivals settle, connect, and build their futures in Ireland — and to understand what more can be done to help people thrive.
Research Focus
Our study set out to capture the real stories behind SICAP’s impact. We wanted to understand:
- What challenges do people face when they first arrive in Ireland?
- What supports make the biggest difference?
- How can communities become even more welcoming and inclusive?
The research looked closely at how SICAP influences integration, employment, education, social participation, and civic engagement. Participants also reflected on their wider experiences of Ireland’s support systems — celebrating what’s working well and identifying where improvements are needed.
We compared the experiences of Applicants for International Protection and Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection, uncovering important insights into how different policies and access routes shape people’s journeys.
How We Did It
To capture a rich and balanced picture, we combined a literature review, focus groups, and a national qualitative survey.
Focus groups took place in Carlow, Cavan, Cork, Dublin, Kerry, and Wexford, bringing together 52 participants:
- 31 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection
- 21 Applicants for International Protection
Each 90-minute session offered a safe space to share experiences, challenges, and hopes for the future.
Our nationwide survey — available in five languages (English, Ukrainian, Arabic, French, and Georgian) — reached 256 respondents across 20 counties and 18 nationalities, ensuring a truly diverse range of voices were heard.
What We Found
Getting Started:
SICAP has been a lifeline for many, helping newcomers navigate essential services like PPS numbers, healthcare, and schooling. Transport and clear information remain ongoing challenges, but the programme’s local connections make a real difference.
Building Connections:
Language classes and community events have helped break down barriers, reduce isolation, and spark genuine friendships between people of different backgrounds.
Supporting Employability and Learning:
SICAP-funded training and job-readiness supports have boosted people’s confidence and employability. Many highlighted English language learning as a turning point in their integration journey — though childcare and requalification remain key hurdles.
Encouraging Civic Participation:
Workshops and information sessions have opened the door to civic life — helping participants understand local democracy, their rights, and how to get involved in their communities.
Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing:
Many participants emphasised the need for more trauma-informed, culturally sensitive mental health supports. The call for accessible wellbeing services was strong and heartfelt.
The Impact
Across the board, participants praised SICAP for helping them find their feet, their confidence, and their community.
Language classes and employment supports were repeatedly described as “life-changing”, giving people not just new skills, but a sense of belonging and possibility.
For many, learning English marked the beginning of real independence: being able to communicate with neighbours, apply for work, or simply feel part of everyday Irish life.
SICAP is more than a support programme — it’s a bridge to belonging.
By listening to people’s lived experiences, this research shines a light on the positive ripple effects of inclusion, empathy, and opportunity in action.
Read the full report here: SICAP Beneficiaries Experience – Full Report
