Showcasing work of charities to local Schools

An information and awareness event for young people from several local schools was held last week in the Burrendale Hotel, Newcastle. Hosting the event was Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Roisin Mulgrew who invited along local schools to show them the work and services of three charities the Chairperson had chosen to support during her year as head of the Council: Davina’s Ark, Mental Health Forum and Women’s Aid. The event was attended by staff and pupils from 15 post primary schools throughout the Newry, Mourne and Down district.

Speaking at the event, Councillor Mulgrew said, “During my term in office I wanted to raise awareness of addictions, domestic abuse and mental health. These issues are extremely important to me and there is a lot of great work happening across the district. I am proud that I have been able to support and promote this over my term as Chairperson.

“Addiction, domestic abuse and mental health problems often go hand in hand and, with the North of Ireland having the highest rate of suicide in the UK, we need to ensure we do everything possible to let people know about the services available to them.

“Our citizens are at the heart of all we do and we have a duty of care to protect and help those most vulnerable in our society to build a stronger future for themselves and their families.

Councillor Mulgrew concluded, “I consider it vitally important to send this message of support and information about services to everyone across the district, including our young people. I am delighted with the large number of schools in attendance today; their attendance shows their level of commitment and support for their pupils as they move forward into their adult lives.”

“I want to thank all the schools for making time during their busy school calendar to participate in this event and I want to commend the charities for the work that they do, often in very difficult circumstances.”

The three charities supported by the Chairperson each provides help to vulnerable local people. Davina’s Ark offers non-residential aftercare to those recovering from addiction as well as supporting their families. Mental Health Forum offers advice, information and a signposting service and works directly with service providers to plan, deliver and monitor mental health provision both locally and regionally. Women’s Aid Armagh Down delivers support and accommodation to women and children affected by domestic violence in the local community.