Youth Wellbeing Events Spark Discussion on Community Challenges

Young people from across the district recently attended youth wellbeing events at the Canal Court Hotel in Newry and the Millbrook Lodge Hotel in Ballynahinch, engaging in important discussions on issues affecting their lives and communities.

The events brought together pupils from St Joseph's High School, Crossmaglen; St Mark's High School, Warrenpoint; Kilkeel’s St Louis Grammar, Newry High School, St Mary’s High, St Colman’s College, Our Lady’s Grammar, Sacred Heart Grammar, Abbey Christian Brothers’ Grammar (all Newry) and Down High School, Downpatrick.

Young people explored ways of tackling isolation and loneliness through connection and peer support and discussed how they can help end violence against women and girls by promoting respect and healthy relationships. They also learned about the risks associated with drugs and alcohol and where to access support and examined the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence, including online safety and responsible use of technology.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna said, “Safety and wellbeing are not something that any one person or organisation can achieve alone. We all have a role to play in creating communities where people feel safe, supported, respected and able to ask for help when they need it.”

The events in Newry and Ballynahinch were organised by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Community Engagement team, Newry, Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) and The Executive Office's Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Change Fund.

The programme forms part of ongoing work to support young people's wellbeing, increase awareness of key social issues, and empower young people to play an active role in creating safer and more connected communities.