RAYMOND Mc CORD, Victims campaigner in call to help West Belfast family

Posted By: December 16, 2023

Irish News. Saturday, December 16, 2023

Victims campaigner in call to help West Belfast family

AWELL-KNOWN victims campaigner has issued a special appeal for essential household equipment on behalf of a West Belfast family in desperate need.

Raymond McCord has urged members of the public to do what they can to ease the family’s plight.

Mr. McCord has campaigned on behalf of his son, Raymond Jr, who was murdered by the UVF in November 1997.

As well as highlighting his son’s case, he is also involved in cross-community work.

He recently took on the case of the west Belfast family after the father, who is battling cancer, was sent home from hospital.

“They were living in the private rented sector, in a house not t for purpose,” he said.

“The water was coming through the roof into the rooms.

“The family’s 15-year-old daughter has now been diagnosed with a medical complaint linked to the dampness.”

“The water was coming through the roof into the rooms

Mr. McCord explained that a local housing association was able to source a new home for the family, but no household appliances or furniture are provided.

“We were able to get them new beds from St Vincent de Paul and someone has donated a corner sofa,” he said.

“But they have no kitchen equipment, nothing.

“The Housing Executive hopes to get them a microwave, but they need a cooker and a washing machine, they need the absolute essentials,” he added.

Mr. McCord urged anyone who can help to get in touch.

“If you have any equipment that you don’t need or can help in any way, we will make sure it makes its way to this family,” he said.

“We are trying to get them in before Christmas so don’t have much time left.”

Mr. McCord revealed that the family’s plight has cut across the community divide after donations came in from the unionist community.

“I have seen once again the kindness of the people of Belfast,” he said.

Mr. McCord also praised the help provided by SDLP councilor Paul Doherty.

“Christmas is a time for family and thanks to the generosity of people this family will have a better time,” he said.

If you would like to help, contact Mr. McCord on raymondmccord@btinternet.com