Council Community Wellbeing Event at Cloughreagh Community Centre

A community wellbeing event organised by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Newry, Slieve Gullion and Crotlieve District Electoral Areas (DEAs) in Cloughreagh Community Centre on Monday 19 January was attended by more than 140 residents.

The Laugh Your Blues Away event included afternoon tea, live comedy, music and singing, a mocktail bar, photo booth, activities and goody bags, all designed to create a relaxed and welcoming environment that encouraged conversation and social connection.

The event was organised to help tackle isolation and loneliness and promote positive mental health during the winter period.

Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “The Council’s Community Plan recognises the importance of helping people feel included, connected and supported. Events like this play a vital role in building strong, respectful and vibrant communities where people can enjoy good health and wellbeing.”

Welcoming residents to the event, Cllr Campbell highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for people to connect within their communities.

“Our Community Plan recognises the importance of helping people feel included, connected and supported. Events like this play a vital role in building strong, respectful and vibrant communities where people can enjoy good health and wellbeing,” he said.

The Council Chairperson said while Blue Monday is often associated with lower mood, the community centre event served as a wider reminder of the importance of mental health all year round.

“Tackling isolation and loneliness has never been more important. People across our district have told us that feeling connected and valued in their communities is what matters most to them,” said Cllr Campbell.

Cllr Campbell also acknowledged the work of Council officers and partners in delivering the event.

“Our DEA Coordinators work closely with residents, community groups and partners to design programmes that reflect local need. Today’s event is a strong example of how partnership working can bring people together in meaningful ways,” the Chairperson added.

At the Cloughreagh event, information stalls were manned by several organisations, providing residents with access to advice and support services. Stallholders included NMDDC Health Inequalities, Southern Age Well, Southern Health and Social Care Trust Promoting Wellbeing Team, Start 360 and Volunteer Now.

The event was funded and supported by the Tackling Loneliness and Isolation Together (TILT) initiative, helping to ensure the afternoon was free, inclusive and accessible to all who attended.

TILT is an initiative of the Newry, Mourne and Down Community Planning Partnership and brings together a range of statutory agencies from across the district, alongside the community and voluntary sector, to tackle the issue of loneliness and social isolation. By working together, these partners strive to achieve far more collectively than would be possible individually.

Residents who would like to find out more about the role of District Electoral Areas (DEAs), upcoming events and local programmes can visit: https://www.newrymournedown.org/residents-district-electoral-area-dea-forums