Crossmaglen Event Helps Residents Stay Warm This Winter

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Slieve Gullion District Electoral Area (DEA) Forum organised a special event at Crossmaglen Community Centre in partnership with the Rural Health Partnership to help residents stay warm this winter.

Over 60 people attended the ‘Warm, Informed & Support’ event at Crossmaglen Community Centre on 4 December. In addition to advice on how to keep warm, they were also given practical energy-saving tips, local information, and access to support services.

Residents were able to speak with representatives from organisations including Crossmaglen Credit Union, the Consumer Council, Make the Call, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, Northern Ireland Housing Executive and St Vincent de Paul Crossmaglen.

The Rural Health Partnership hosted one-to-one advice clinics and a popular slow cooker budget cookery demonstration, showing how to prepare affordable, energy-efficient meals.

Guest speaker, Mr Hugh McVeigh, from National Energy Action (NEA NI), shared expert insights on the impact of cold homes on health, ways to reduce heat loss and improve insulation, and information on available support schemes.

Residents received a free resource pack with low-energy light bulbs, reflective radiator foil and room thermometers, with the event also providing an opportunity for them to socialise over a hot lunch.

The Rural Health Partnership, in conjunction with Crossmaglen Credit Union, ran a lively raffle with prizes donated by local businesses, including heating oil vouchers, slow cookers, oil radiators and air fryers.

Slieve Gullion DEA Forum Chairperson, Councillor David Taylor said, “Events like this are a great example of our community coming together to share knowledge, resources and support.

“By raising awareness around fuel efficiency and energy saving, we’re helping local families take practical steps to stay warm and comfortable this winter,” he added.

Teresa Nugent, Rural Health Partnership Chief Executive Officer, said, “We’re delighted to work in partnership to bring this valuable event to our rural community. By joining forces, we can make sure that everyone — no matter where they live — has access to the advice and support they need to enjoy a warm and safe home.”