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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage met with representatives from two local charities Aware NI and Samaritans last month to discuss the vital work they do to support the mental health and wellbeing of residents.
Aware NI provides support, education and information to those people affected by depression, bipolar disorder and mood related conditions. Offering a range of services including support groups, helplines and online resources, to assist individuals and families dealing with mental health issues. While Samaritans provides emotional support to people in distress, including those experiencing feelings of loneliness, isolation or suicidal thoughts. Offering a helpline, email support and face to face meetings to provide a safe space for people to talk about their feelings and get the support they need.
During the meeting both of the charities discussed the challenges which they face, reporting an increased demand for their services, as people struggle with isolation and financial difficulties.
Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage praised the important work of both Charities saying, “I have no doubt that the intervention of both of these charities has kept many of our citizens alive who are struggling with mental health and other pressures that have arisen in our community. It is vital that we continue to support these charities and other third sector organisations by raising awareness of the valuable work they do and highlight the challenges which they face with underfunding.”
Concluding, Cllr Savage expressed his commitment to working with both charities in the future.
