Local DEAs Help Families Reconnect to Key Services

To help connect families to supports and services provided by local organisations, the District Electoral Areas of Newry and Slieve Gullion, delivered a Family Connection Day at Kileavy Castle on Wednesday 2 February.

The event, funded by the Department of Communities, was organised to help raise awareness of the support services operating within the district.  Speaking about the day, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Cathy Mason said, “There are many families that need additional support but don’t know where to look for it.  Often the help they need is right on their doorstep being delivered through one of our fantastic public and voluntary organisations. Now more than ever with the impact Covid-19 has left on many families through grief, health problems, financial issues and isolation, and with rising energy costs, it is important we know where to seek help before issues feel insurmountable.  Working directly in the community, our DEAs have recognised the need and has responded by organising this fantastic event.”

On the day, Rural Health Partnership South Armagh, Clanrye Group and Bolster gave presentations and taster sessions of the services and programme supports they offer. Also attending were a range of information stands including Advice NI, Children and Young People Services, SureStart, Home Start and Volunteer Now.  As an additional treat singer and comedian Emer Maguire, provided a lighted hearted sketch on family life.

Chairperson Councillor Cathy Mason continued, “Improving the health and wellbeing of the community is a priority that features prominently in the Council’s Corporate Plan and this Family Connection Day is an example of our commitment to delivering on that priority.”