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A new social programme is launching across the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area, offering regular group activities for people who have become increasingly isolated.
Chums, which stands for Community Hubs for Meeting and Socialising, is designed for people who have withdrawn from regular social activity and are experiencing loneliness. Groups will be established at venues including libraries and community centres, with activities on offer alongside a cuppa and a sticky bun. The initiative, called Chums, has been made possible through PEACEPLUS funding secured by council.
Loneliness is a growing concern across the north, with demand for support far outstripping the services currently available. Research indicates that loneliness can have the same impact on a person's health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, with links also established to conditions including heart disease, diabetes and dementia.
Chums Project Manager Eamon Quinn acknowledges that getting involved can be daunting at first: "Taking the first step out can be the most difficult. With a bit of gentle support, we can guarantee a friendly hello to brighten your day."
The programme places particular emphasis on ensuring participants feel genuinely welcomed from the outset. Groups will be kept small and participants will also have the opportunity to connect with other activities taking place across the council area.
Welcoming the initiative Council Chairperson Philip Campbell said: "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to strengthen positive relationships within our community. Loneliness affects a great number of people across the council area and I hope Chums will help build social connections and empower people to enjoy their community."
Councillor Terry Andrews, Chairperson of the PEACEPLUS Partnership, also gave his backing to the scheme: "This programme is an excellent example of collaboration between the local community, the voluntary sector, the council, and statutory agencies. We are looking forward to the positive impact this initiative will have on people in our council area." Cllr Andrews chairs the cross-border funding partnership which is supporting the programme.
Chums is delivered by Belfast-based MayWe Events, a company which has previously delivered activity programmes throughout the Newry, Mourne and Down District. A second MayWe social prescribing programme is also planned for later in the year, focused on emotional and mental wellbeing for both groups and individuals.
Chums is funded by PEACEPLUS, a cross-border programme supported by the European Union, the Irish and UK Governments and the Stormont administration.
Anyone wishing to take part or find out more can contact Chums by phone on 07394 726 889, by email at chums@maywe.co.uk or by visiting www.maywe.co.uk/chums.
