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A specialist team within the Southern Health and Social Care Trust is providing life-changing psychological support to people who have experienced Troubles-related trauma, helping them to recover, build and move forward.
The Regional Trauma Network, based at Haven's Close in St Luke's, Armagh, offers one-to-one therapy, group programmes and community outreach designed to rebuild confidence, wellbeing and hope. With an 80 per cent increase in referrals in one year, the team have also opened access through GP practices to meet the growing demand.
Team Lead Phillip Joyce said: "Many of those we support, often for the first time, are able to talk about their experiences in a safe and understanding environment, which they say has made a real difference to their wellbeing and confidence."
Those who have used the service have described it as a turning point in their recovery. One man, who had lived with trauma for decades, said: "For the first time in years, I started sleeping properly and feeling like myself again. The support gave me confidence and helped me reconnect with life."
The team is made up of CBT Therapists, Psychologists, a Drama Therapist, an Occupational Therapist in the outreach role and a Consultant Clinical Psychologist for children and young people, to help prevent transgenerational trauma for families who have been impacted by the Troubles.
Dr Downing, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, said: "We are pleased to see such positive feedback from those who have accessed the service, with 100 per cent of them saying they were treated with courtesy and respect and 95 per cent recommending the service to a friend or family member. It is a privilege to support people on their journey to recovery and see them regain confidence and optimism."
The RTN works with local partner organisations including WAVE, Relatives for Justice, the Ely Centre and the South East Fermanagh Foundation.
Jan McGall, Director of Mental Health, said: "In Northern Ireland, many people live with long-term effects of conflict, loss and adversity. The work of the RTN is vital in addressing these needs, offering understanding, compassion and clinically effective support for healing and recovery."
She added that the service is an excellent example of how the Southern Trust is focusing on improving emotional wellbeing, promoting recovery and strengthening community partnerships. It reflects the Trust's commitment to patient-centred care, ensuring people get the right support at the right time from a team that truly understands trauma and its impact.
