Council Community Support Hub Lands in Downpatrick

Residents in the Downpatrick area are being offered the opportunity to speak directly

with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Representatives and local support organisations on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, as part of a new Community Support Hub drop-in initiative.

The Down Leisure Centre will host the event from 2pm to 5pm, with residents, community group members and local organisations invited to drop in, meet and connect with staff from a number of Council departments, statutory agencies and community organisations who can provide confidential advice, help and support in a welcoming and accessible space.

The Community Support Hub is designed to provide people access to the right support from the right organisation, with advice on issues including housing, health and well-being, home and personal safety, training and employment and funding opportunities.

The Downpatrick event also provides residents with a chance to speak informally with Council and statutory agency representatives, ask questions, raise issues and receive information relevant to their needs or those of their communities.

Officials from the Council’s planning, human resources, environmental health, refuse, leisure, community engagement, health, tourism and business development teams will be in attendance at the Down Leisure Centre event.

They will be joined by representatives from the PSNI, Housing Executive, Education Authority, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust and community sector organisations, Volunteer Now and Community Advice. A representative from the Northern Ireland Assembly’s Engagement Team will also be in attendance.

Funding for the Community Support Hub is being provided by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, the Northern Ireland Executive and T:buc, with the initiative being co-ordinated by the Council’s District Electoral Area Forum Teams.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “I encourage people to get involved and play an active part in the Community Support Hub initiative.

“Bringing people together can make it easier for them to get the information and support they need. The Community Support Hub opens the door for residents to meet face-to-face with

Council services, statutory partners and community organisations in one place, in a relaxed and approachable setting,” he added.

The Community Support Hub provides an opportunity for people to learn more about the support available to them and explore opportunities to get involved in local decision-making. There will also be an opportunity to learn how to access services, become involved in local initiatives, and contribute to shaping decisions that affect their area.

Residents and community groups are welcome to attend the events in Downpatrick and Newry and no booking is required.