Play Successfully Tackles Mental Health Issues in Local Schools

Downpatrick, Rowallane and Slieve Croob District Electoral Area (DEA) joined forces with Action for Children, a charity that supports and speaks out on behalf of the most vulnerable and neglected children and young people in Northern Ireland. The partnership has delivered a new play to tackle the stigma associated with mental health issues in schools.   

Local DEAs were keen to raise awareness of the issue and engage with local schools. Spanner in the Works, a local theatre company were commissioned to develop the play. The play, which was developed specifically for schools, will be instrumental in tackling some of the key mental health issues such as stress, depression and self-harm that affect young people today.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin said “It is important that we provide support mechanisms to young people suffering mental health issues to build resilience and eliminate the stigma associated with this issue. I commend the DEAs in responding so effectively and meaningfully to this issue at a grass root level”.

A useful teacher resource pack has also been produced for participating schools. It contains further information and useful contacts for pupils to access support, guidance and advice on a range of mental health topics. To date, nine school performances have been delivered and it is anticipated that attendances will exceed 1,000.