Newsletter v 3

FREE

CoMMuNity Mayo North East

JourNal

Supporting Community Development, Enterprise and Access to Training and Employment

Vol. 1

l

Issue 3

l

May 2018

What’s Inside?

Mindspace – Young peoples health matters

BALLINA COMMUNITY CENTRE – the reason someone smiles today

Ballina Men’s Shed and its growth over the years

Minister Michael Ring officially launched the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (2018-2022) in Limerick recently, highlighting the positive impact this programme has on assisting people into employment, education and training over the years and the benefit to local community groups supported by the activities of the programme. Pictured:(L-R) Rita Hopkins, SICAP Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Co., Cora Keane, LCDC Mayo Co.Co., Minister Ring, Orla Quinn and Rosie Smyth, Department of Rural and Community Development.

The SICAP Programme is managed by Mayo North East on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the LCDC of Mayo County Council.

New answers for youth – better future for Europe Mayo Local Employment Service along with Mayo County Council are involved in an Erasmus + “New answers for youth – Better Future for Europe” project. There are three other countries involved; Bulgaria, Italy and Spain.

The main focus is to stimulate the improvement of the quality and accessibility and to update the techniques of the work related to disadvantaged youth in order to facilitate their social and economic integration in the new environment in Europe through enhanced

co-operation between organisations with different profile and role in the youth field and joint development of new integrated approaches and models of work. There are four themes to be examined throughout the project: l First steps on how to reach out to the young people with disadvantaged background and fewer opportunities. l Further steps: How to attract these hard-to-reach groups permanently - how to create space and make the

participation interesting, enjoyable, valued, beneficial to all sectors involved, based on connection and mutual understanding

l Further steps: How to support social inclusion and better employability; achieving real, significant and measurable results and working with a variety of community groups.

l How to make use of ICT, digital and audio-visual content in youth work – innovative and new different approaches.

The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2018-2022 is funded by the Irish Government through the Department of Rural and Community Development and co-funded by the European Social Fund under the Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning (PEIL) 2014-2020

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

2

May, 2018

Mindspace – young peoples health matters ~ BY ~ Victoria Tomlinson Mental health issues are part of everyday life – be it struggling to cope due to depression or anxiety, feeling not good enough, peer pressure or just the environment your surrounded by. It has impacted everyone at some stage in their life.

When this happens they often wrap themselves up in their own little bubble or build a wall hoping that it will all go away? Unfortunately this can result in people feeling isolated and unable to cope and, inturn, can lead some people to seek refuge in alcohol or drugs.

Many young lives are cut short through substance and alcohol abuse and suicide, all because they didn’t know there was a better way, or that there was a light at the end of the tunnel.

This is where Mindspace comes in. Midspace Mayo is a free and confidential support service to promote young peoples health and wellbeing from the ages of 15-25 who may be going through some serious problems in their lives, like addiction, depression, suicidal tendencies and, or being bullied.

Mindspace gives them support in a safe, friendly and non judgmental environment.

The main Mindspace office is in the Market Square, Castlebar, with two other outreach locations in Erris and Ballina.

May, 2018

MINDSPACE CAN HELP IF YOU:

l are feeling down, stressed or can't stop worrying l Don't feel like yourself anymore l Can't deal with school/college/work or are finding it difficult to concentrate l are feeling sick or worried about your health l Have questions about, or want to cut down on alcohol or other drug use

This is a brilliant English essay by a 15-year old secondary school student on happiness published on Mindspace Mayo Facebook page

Happiness To be happy in Ireland as a young person you have to be able to cope. Coping isn’t putting on a brace face, coping is letting yourself feel the sadness, feel the anger, feel the jealousy – but most importantly feel the love, feel the happiness, feel the admiration, feel the appreciation, feel the contentment, feel the ambition, feel the excitement and feel the fulfillment. Don’t be afraid to feel because you are the only one that can feel it. Let it in.

l Have sexual health issues l are being bullied, hurt or harassed l are worried about work or study or if you're having money trouble l Need someone to talk to

WORKING WITH THE COMMUNITY as well as directly helping young people, they strive to bring awareness and knowledge to the community, by going round to schools hosting talks and presentations in workplaces and community groups with the aim of raising awareness that there is an organisation

Students from Our Lady’s Secondary School, Belmullet, winners of the Junior competition in the Mayo Student Enterprise Awards 2018 final with their mini company Life Charms. They represent Mayo in the National Finals in Croke Park on May 2.

and people who are willing to listen. The more people aware the more chance for the person to receive help quickly.

WHO IS INVOLVED IN MINDSPACE MAYO? Mindspace Mayo is funded by the following organisations: HSE (Health Service

To be happy in Ireland as a young person you have to be able to accept. Everyone is different. To live a life of happiness you have to learn to accept yourself, accept every race, accept every disability, and accept every mind. A world of judgment, hatred and antisocial behavior is not a world I want to live in but when you have your own little world you don’t have to be a part of it. Be your own person.

To be happy as a young person in Ireland, you have to care for your own mind. You have to learn to let go and understand that it gets better. You will succeed, you will conquer your dreams and you will work for what you want no matter how hard it gets. It starts with ambition and a good thought in your well-nurtured mind.

3

l Want to talk about sexuality, gender identity or relationships l are having difficulties with your family or friends

The sooner you get help the sooner things can begin to improve for you. Mindspace also provide information and advice to anyone who is worried about a friend or young person in their life.

The Erris outreach service operates one day a week (Wednesdays) and is based in the Irish Wheelchair association building in Belmullet town, and the Ballina outreach service also runs one day a week (Mondays) and is based in the Ballina Family Resource Centre, ardnaree.

If you're going through a tough time Mindspace can help . There is no issue too big or too small they havent heard.

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

Mindspace gives them support in a safe, friendly and non judgmental environment.

Executive)and Mental Health Service.

Mindspace Mayo are also partnered with other community based organisations such as: Mayo North East Leader Partnership Company, Foróige, GMIT Mayo, ISPCC, Mayo Intercultural action, Mayo Mental Health association, Mayo Travellers Support Group, Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board, Mayo North East Leader Partnership Company, South West Mayo Development Company Ltd, St Vincent de Paul and Tac˙ Family Resource Centre Mindspace Mayo also have a youth panel, in which they not only have a part to play in the advisory capacity to Mindspace Mayo, but place themselves at the forefront of leading this project into a future of better mental health services for young people in Mayo. Some people feel more comfortable talking and expressing themselves to individuals who are in or around their same age, where they, too, may have experience the same thing and voice how

they got through it with the help of the people around them and the outreach service.

The youth panel is a group of young people whose role in Mindspace Mayo is to: l Represent Mindspace Mayo in the community l Voice their opinion as a young person l assist Mindspace Mayo in making decisions on the running of its service. l assist with fundraising activities l Helping Mindspace to find and recruit the right people to help them in their work l attending regular meetings to guide Mindspace in their work. all expenses are covered

If you want to book an appointment: Text: 086 18 44 995.

Call: 094 906 7001 Fax: 094 90 44 393 Email: info@mindspacemayo.ie

4

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

May, 2018

Ballina Men’s Shed and its growth over the years ~ BY ~

What is a Men’s Shed?

James Reddiough THE principal objective of the Men’s Shed organisation is to provide a safe, friendly and inclusive environment where men from all walks of life can gather and work together on projects that are meaningful to them and in turn ‘gives something back to the community’. The Shed also offers the opportunity to learn about mens health issues through informal discussion with fellow ‘shedders’.

It is the idea of men working shoulder to shoulder, building connections, support and friendship that appeals to the members of Ballina Men’s Shed. a successful Men’s Shed should achieve a mix of community work, education, and health promotion and all three are to be found in the Men’s Shed in Ballina.

The entire Ballina and it's region's community turned out in force to attend the official opening of the Ballina Men’s Shed Club's wonderful new centre in the town's former Estoria Cinema. Attending the opening were Collrs Seamus Weir, Annie May Reape, Garda Declan Casey, Seamus Smyth, Garda John Barrett, Collr Michael Loftus, Stanley McAndrew, Mickey Bergin and Fr. Liam Reilly.

A MEN’S Shed is a dedicated, friendly and welcoming meeting place where men come together and undertake a variety of mutually agreed activities.

Men’s Sheds are open to all men regardless of age, background or ability. It is a place where you can share your skills and knowledge with others, learn new skills and develop your old skills.

New members are always welcome and can be assured that there is something of interest for everyone as the men have ownership of their Shed and projects and decide their own programme of events.

The objective of Men’s Sheds is to enhance or maintain the well-being of the participating men.

The Irish Men’s Sheds Association was set up in January 2011 with the purpose of supporting the development and sustainability of Men’s Sheds on the Island of Ireland.

There are 375 registered Men’s Sheds in Ireland with 51 in Connacht and 15 in Mayo.

May, 2018

Ivan Beattie has outlined the growth of the Men’s Shed since its earliest days when he and a number of others were involved in the formation of the Shed after a suggestion by Pat o’Brien at a series of classes in the Ballina Family Resource Centre in late 2011. after the approach from Pat a committee for a Men’s Shed in Ballina was formed. Ivan Beattie was the first Chairman, and the others were: Secretary, Frank Convey and Treasurer: Eamon Mcandrew. The first meeting was held on the 24th November, 2011.

The opening of the Men’s Sheds was in the NCF building on Castle Road in June 2012, and before this the Men’s Shed was in the woodwork room of the HSE Training Centre. It was Martin Dervan of the Lions Club who suggested the NCF centre.

The lease in the NCF Dairies building was for €10 per

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

5

Seami Rice presenting Claire Cook, Principal of Culleens National School, with a Buddy Bench

Lacey trying out Behy Schools Buddy Bench.

annum and this was deemed a suitable place for the Shed but after a tragic accident in a property in Longford Martin Dervan wrote to the committee and asked them to a meeting where they were informed that due to fears for health and safety they would have to vacate the building immediately leaving the Men’s Continued over page

MAYO MEN’S SHEDS CHARLESTOWN & DISTRICT MEN’S SHED Complex Centre, Charlestown.

Sean Forkan: 089 220 9141 Kevin Higgins: 094 964 9814

BALLINA MEN’S SHED Teeling Street, Ballina.

Seamie Rice: 087 443 2512 Ivan Beattie: 085 174 1841

BALLINROBE MEN’S SHED Credit Union House, Main Street, Ballinrobe.

Sean Dowling: 094 954 2908 Michelle Walshe: 094 954 2908

CLAREMORRIS MEN’S SHED Market Lane, The Square, Claremorris.

John Fallon: 089 951 5239 Roger Dangerfield: 089 427 5986

CROSSMOLINA MEN’S SHED Enaghbeg, Ballina.

Martin Mulhern: 086 880 7342 Tommie Gallagher: 085 124 5656

BALLYHAUNIS MEN’S SHED

ERRIS MEN’S SHED

St Mary’s Abbey, C/O Friary House, Ballyhaunis.

Jim Goulding: 087 932 7317 Kevin Carney: 087 191 1135

1 Drom Ard, Church Rd Belmullet Padraig Brogan: 087 797 8821

CASTLEBAR MEN’S SHED GMIT Campus, Castlebar.

Pat O’Malley: 085 152 5367 Bernard King: 085 152 5367

GLEN NEIPHIN MEN’S SHED Lahardane, Ballina.

James Gibbons: 087 634 6423 John Gilboy: 096 51015

KILTIMAGH MEN’S SHED The Old machinery Yard, Aidan Street,

Kiltimagh.

Seamus Swift: 086 603 6070 Oliver Burke: 086 305 9614 MULRANNY MEN’S SHED Cois Farraige, Cushleka Road, Mulranny, Westport.

Patrick Moran: 087 912 0166 Jim Reilly: 087 120 2732

NEWPORT MEN’S SHED Shanballyhue, Newport.

Michael O’Donnell: 086 784 0727

ROUND TOWER MEN’S SHED Killala Community Centre, Killala.

Michael McDonnell: 087 618 1820 Joe Mahady: 086 809 5529

SWINFORD MEN’S SHED St Patrick’s College, Swinford.

Joe Finn: 086 166 6620 Frank O’Keefe 086 810 9504

WESTPORT MEN’S SHED Dooncastle, Westport.

Paddy Geraghty: 086 845 1103

6

Shed in Ballina without a home until they occupied the former Estoria Cinema building.

In april 2016 they took up residence in the Estoria building in a caretaker capacity, and that has been their home to this present day.

The lease has been recently renewed and this bodes well for the future. “one of our great successes was the winning of the Fishermen’s Friend award in 2017. We won the People’s Choice award after our entry ‘Water and Turf’ racked up an impressive 631 ‘likes’ on Facebook. The theme was local bogs and the River Moy. In october 2017 the Men’s Shed staged an exhibition of their work titled ‘From the Men’s Shed’. The exhibition was very successful and well attended. The exhibition ran for a week in the Civic offices, Pearse Street. one of the features in the woodwork section was the Buddy Bench.

The Buddy Bench is a simple idea to eliminate loneliness and foster friendship in the playground.

“When we delivered the Buddy Benches to the local National Schools it was a delight to see the looks on the children’s faces,” said Seamie. at present members of the Shed are involved in making sensory boards for Western Care and local schools.

LOCAL SUPPORT Councillor John o’ Hara has been of tremendous support to the Ballina Men’s Shed and is very enthusiastic about the future of the Shed. Indeed at this point it is fair to mention the support that the Ballina Men’s Shed has received from the local authority in the Ballina area, and annie May Reape in particular, and also thanks to Gerry Ginty for his kind financial support. a special thank you to Mayo

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

May, 2018

Honouring our solders that had the courage to face the enemy.

Joe and Ivan delivering the finished mud kitchen to Ardnaree Community Playgroup

ART STUDIO Ballina Men’s Shed recently opened their own art studio in the Shed on the 4th May, 2018. The opening was performed by member and artist Val McLoughlin. *See next month’s issue to see pictures of the opening.

Members and friends at the opening of the Shed’s Art and Craft exhibition.

May, 2018

North East Partnership Ltd., SICaP, Tús, and Moy Valley Resources for their continued support and involvement with Ballina Men’s Shed. art and cookery classes are held regularly in the Shed and men generally eat what they cook. Welding the salmon was another exciting project that links the Men’s Shed with the fishing community with whom they work closely with.

There is a fundraising dimension, too, to the Men’s Shed in order to keep it going.

The Shed holds coffee mornings, flag days and raffles to raise funds. Table quizzes have also proven to be a good fundraisers. Ballina Men’s Shed are grateful to the local businesses for their support in their numerous fundraising activities.

The Shed had a float in the St. Patrick’s Day parade and won an award this year for their float of which they are delighted with.

The fairy theme is another part of their work and the fairy trail in Belleek Woods has proven very popular with children and families alike.

Grants from the HSE and Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board have made classes possible here in the Shed – there is a good uptake by the members.

Good health is based on many factors including feeling good about yourself, being productive and valuable to your community; connecting to friends, and maintaining an active body and mind. Being a member of Ballina Men’s Shed provides a safe and busy environment where you can find many of these things.

There is no pressure – men can just come in and have a chat and a cuppa if that's all they’re looking for. a key objective of the Men’s Shed is to provides an environment where men can

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

find employment and occupation and not become isolated. This has been the real success of the Men’s Shed to date and continues to be so.

For further information please contact either Ivan Beattie at 085 174 1941 or Seamie Rice – 087 443 2512

7

8

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

May, 2018

MEET THE STAFF

May, 2018

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

WHO WE ARE – MAYO NORTH EAST EMPLOYEES

Tel: +353 94 9256745 RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (RDP):

JUSTIN SAMMON, CEO Email: justinsammon@mnelp.com

SOCIAL INCLUSION AND COMMUNITY ACTIVATION PROGRAMME (SICAP): KATHRYN CAWLEY Financial Controller. Email: kathryncawley@mnelp.com RINA GARRETT Community, Employment and Enterprise Coordinator (achill/Erris).

DOLORES MCNICHOLAS Community Development, Training and Education Co-ordinator.

Email: dmcnicholas@mayonortheast.com

NIALL CULKIN Community Development and youth Co-oodinator.

Email: niallculkin@mayonortheast.com PATRICIA CRAWLEY Beneficiary Support Worker.

Email: patriciacrawley@mayonortheast.com MARIA REGAN administrator.

Email: mariaregan@mayonortheast.com

SIOBHAN CARROLL WEBB Education and Training Co-ordinator Email: siobhancarrollwebb@mayonortheast.com

MARY GLYNN administrator Email: maryglynn@mnelp.com

RINA HOPKINS Monitoring & Evaluation Co-ordinator and Social Enterprise adviser.

Email: ritahopkins@mayonortheast.com

NIAMH CHARLTON Enterprise Co-ordinator Email: niamhcharlton@mayonortheast.com

JAMES GOLDEN RDP Programme Manager Email: jamesgolden@mayonortheast.com EITHNE FORBES administrator/Development officer Email: eithneforbes@mnelp.com MARY GLYNN administrator/Development officer Email: maryglynn@mnelp.com MARIA REGAN administrator Email: mariaregan @mayonortheast.com

MAYO JOBS CLUB:

TÚS COMMUNITY WORK PLACEMENT PROGRAMME:

JACKIE BRENNAN Jobs Club Co-ordinator Email: jackiebrennan@mayonortheast.com

BRENDAN O’SHEA TÚS Co-ordinator.

Email: brendanoshea@mnelp.com

DEIRDRE FAHY TÚS Supervisor.

Email: deirdrefahy@mnelp.com

MARGARET BURKE

MARY NOLAN NILAND Financial Controller.

Email: maryniland@mnelp.com

ELIZABETH FAIR TÚS Supervisor Email: elizabethfair@mayonortheast.com

administrator Email: margaretburke@mayonortheast.com

LORRAINE HEALY TÚS Supervisor.

Email: lorrainehealy@mnelp.com

MARK McDONNELL TÚS Supervisor.

Email: markmcdonnell@mayonortheast.com

NELL McNICHOLAS TÚS Supervisor.

Email: helen.mcnicholas@mayonortheast.com

MARTIN CORCORAN TÚS Supervisor.

Email: martincorcoran@mnelp.com

PAT WALSH TÚS Supervisor.

Email: patwalsh@mayonortheast.com

NELL McNICHOLAS TÚS Supervisor.

Email: helen.mcnicholas@mayonortheast.com

NORTH MAYO CE SCHEME: ANGELA O'BRIEN CE Supervisor Email: angelaobrien@mnelp.com

FREDDIE HENRY

Niall Culkin Community Development and youth co-ordinator Q. Can you give me a brief description of your job as Community Development and Youth Co-ordinator with SICAP? A. My job is about aiding Community Groups to achieve their aims and fulfil their roles as best they can.

We assist these groups through training and helping them obtain funding. I do a lot of work with various youth Groups and Services including schools. We are here to assist communities develop through engagement, participation and empowerment, some of the key values of Community Development.

We also provide training for individuals. This can be very varied, from those wanting to get back into education to people just wanting to do a particular course of interest to them.

Q. What is your favourite part of working with SICAP? A. SICaP is a very good programme allowing for a lot of variety in what we can do. We can help groups with social outings and governance training. We can help out with summer camps for youths or we can provide digital media training for them. There are always great possibilities and the activities we fund can be very different.

CE Supervisor freddiehenry@mayonortheast.com

RURAL SOCIAL SCHEME (RSS) BRENDAN O’SHEA RSS Co-ordinator.

Email: brendanoshea@mnelp.com

MARY BOYLE RSS Supervisor.

Email: maryboyle@mnelp.com

MARY NOLAN NILAND Financial Controller.

Email: maryniland@mnelp.com

MICHAEL ROWLAND RSS Supervisor.

Email: michaelrowland@mayonortheast.com

JEAN BEATTIE RSS Supervisor.

Email: jeanbeattie@mnelp.com

HENRY LAWLOR RSS Supervisor.

Email: henrylawlor@mnelp.com

GERRY MURPHY RSS Supervisor.

Email: gerrymurphy@mnelp.com

CAROLINE MULVEY RSS Supervisor.

Email: Carolinemulvey@mnelp.com

TOM TIMLIN RSS Supervisor.

Email: tomtimlin@mnelp.com

VIVIAN WOOD RSS Supervisor.

Email: vivianwood@mnelp.com

9

MARIE CLAIRE MELVIN

Q. What are your priorities for 2018?

A. There are a few projects in the pipeline that I don’t want to say too much about just yet, but I really hope, in collaboration with other organisations we can bring at least two of these projects to fruition.

Q. What’s the most important achievement you hope to accomplish in your current role?

A. I just love working with Community and Voluntary organisations and individuals, helping them to achieve their own aims and ambitions. as long as I am able to do that I am happy.

Q. What do you think is the primary value of community and voluntary organisations?

A. Community and voluntary organisations have a wide variety of roles. However I think one of the most important aims at the moment is, and should be, social inclusion. In the words of Community Work Ireland this means “achieving social change that will contribute to the creation of a more just, sustainable and equal society.”

Q. WHO IS YOUR ROLE MODEL, AND WHY? A. Justin Sammon

WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE?

assistant CE Supervisor Email: marieclairemelvin@mnelp.com

To empower yourself or your community, find out more at:

YVONNE CORCORAN CE assistant Supervisor Phone: +353 94 9256745 yvonnecorcoran@mayonortheast.com

Q. What path did you take to get to where you are today?

A. My path to where I am today was a very long and roundabout journey. after doing my leaving cert I done two years of Electronic Engineering in Sligo It. Then I spent two years in Dublin on an aircraft Maintenance apprenticeship. at about the time I finished this, the building industry was starting to boom so I moved home to work on as a labourer and block layer.

Coming towards the end of the boom I returned to college. as I was involved with a lot of local community groups on a voluntary basis I opted to go for a Degree in Rural Development. This was a really interesting course and before I was finished my degree I had gained employment in the Community Development Sector. I think this should show young people that if you don’t know what you want to do when you are doing the leaving cert it does not matter.

It is never too late to choose your path in life.

Q. Tell me about a project or accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career.

A. Completing my degree

WEB: www.mayonortheast.com

facebook.com/Mayo North East

HEAD OFFICE:

BALLINA OFFICE:

SWINFORD OFFICE:

MAYO JOB INITIATIVE:

Mayo North East, Lower Main St., Foxford, Co. Mayo.

89 Lord Edward Street, Ballina, Co, Mayo.

The Courthouse, Davitt Place, Swinford, Co Mayo

PAT NEALON

Tel: 094-9256745

Tel: 096-77615 / 087 9226626

Tel: 087 7704251 / 089 2005263

EMAIL: iinfo@mayonortheast.com

EMAIL: infoballina@mayonortheast.com

EMAIL: infoswinford@mayonortheast.com

Project Co-ordinator Email: patnealon@mnelp.com

ACHILL & BELMULLET: 087 1840214

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

10

May, 2018

May, 2018

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

Ballina Community Centre the reason someone smiles today Pictures and words by

Susan McCabe BaLLINa Community Centre is centrally located on Teeling Street, Ballina, Co Mayo, and opens from 8am to 2pm weekdays and from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays and bank holidays.

Ballina Community Centre was originally established in 1969 by the Sisters of Mercy in response to the need for meals on wheels service in the town. The Ballina Community Center was officially opened in March, 1971 by the then Tanaiste and Minister for Health Erskine Childers and managed by Sister aquinas of the Mercy nuns. Sister Kevin took over from Sister aquinas, and she continued to develop the service.

Ballina Community Centre continues to provide the service today operating as a social enterprise model by generating income from the meals-on-wheels programme.

at present it is governed by a voluntary committee elected annually at the aGM. The current committee members are as followed: chairperson ann Murray, vice Chairperson, Pat Diamond; Secretary, Rita Ruddy; Co-Treasurers, Sister Martha Hegarty and Nan Healy; PRo, olive o’Donnell; committee members Michael Garrett, Cyril Collins and Fr Liam Reilly The day-to-day operations are overseen by the chairperson of the committee, assisted by the vice-

chairperson and other committee members. Ballina Community Center employs two paid part-time kitchen staff and indirectly four other part-time staff on various community development schemes. Ballina Community Center is privileged to have the assistance of over 50 volunteer drivers who deliver the meals-on-wheels on a

daily basis.

The target market for the meals-on-wheels service is older and vulnerable people living in the general Ballina, including people being discharged from hospital and people with disabilities unable to prepare a meal for themselves.

There are 1270 people living alone in the area (according to the census) which include the two nursing homes in the town. There are also 1575 people in Ballina with a disability, and all are eligible to benefit from the meals-onwheels service.

The meals-on-wheels service enable older and vulnerable people to continue to live independently for longer and to return to their own homes after hospitalisation. For people who use the service it is seen as more than just a meal – although the food is welcomed – the human contact matters even more to them. Socialisation is a life

saver. Loneliness is one of the most pervasive yet least talked about causes of death among the elderly. It’s even deadlier than obesity, and this is why the meals-onwheels service is so important.

The aim of meals-onwheels is to provide a hot, healthy meal to clients and also to offer a daily source of social contact, which can enable the early detection of the need for other care service. Individual dietary requirements such as diabetes or gluten-free diets can be catered for. The meals are very competitively priced at just €5 for dinner and dessert delivered, and €3 for meals eaten at the centre. The service also provides relief to primary caregivers who, rather than preparing meals, can attend to other tasks or take time out for themselves and for the non-live-in family and friends it is a comfort

The inspirational Nan Healy who has worked with Ballina Community Centre meels-onwheels for the past 35 years.

knowing that their loved ones are provided with regular hot and nutritious meals and a caring connection.

It gives a good sense of wellbeing in the local community to know that there are people working together to ensure our elderly and vulnerable population are well cared for. one such carerer is Nan Healy, a hugely inspirational woman, whom I had the pleasure of interviewing. Nan, who will be 89-years young this year has worked for over 35 years with

Ballina Community Center meals-on- wheels.

Q. When did you first join Ballina Community Centre and why?

A. I joined the community centre after being approached by Sheila Nallon. I wanted to play my part in helping the organisation achieve its aims and also the fact that it was in Ballina town and that the service was much needed.

Q. What is your role in the Ballina Community

ROOMS TO RENT Ballina Community Centre has rooms available to community groups to rent at very reasonable rates.

They would like from the community to avail of this service.

Back row (from left); Gerald O’Hora, Patsy Doherty, Brendan Doherty, Seamus Smyth, Nan Healy and Cyril Collins.

Front row: Lilly Cahill, Mary Halloran, Doherty Halloran, Nan Walsh and Sr. Kevin.

11

Centre?

A. I have worked in all aspects of the committee.

I have been a volunteer, a chairperson, vicechairperson, secretary and the joint treasurer Q. out of all your roles with the centre what was your favourite one?

A.The treasure, because I used to work as a nurse in the ’50s and I had a clerical job in an airport, also I was used of handling money in our family business. I loves books.

Q. Have you encountered many challenges along the way?

A. yes, years ago we never had to think about money as it didn’t appear to be a problem, but nowadays food prices keep going up and things have changed completely. We have to charge for meals now just to keep going.

Q. Do you do any fundraising?

A. yes, we have church gate collection in June at St. Patrick’s church and the Cathedral.

Q. If you could, what one thing would you change and why?

A. I would bring back the social outing. I used to help organise them and I enjoyed meeting all the people who went on these outings.

Q. If you were younger would you do it all over again?

A. I wouldn’t change a thing.

I loved every moment working with the community. I’ve seen loads of changes over the years – some bad and some good – now I get the meals myself and I love them, especially the dessert, as I have a really sweet tooth, (she smiles).

Ballina Community Centre Continued over page

12

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

meals-on-wheels would like to thank Mayo North East Partnership for the training and workshops they have provided for them. They are truly grateful to have been able to attend. They would also like to thank Patrica Crawley (SICaP), Rita Hopkins (SICaP) and Niall Culkin (SICaP) FoR)for the support they have given them.

They also acknowledge the RSS and Tús schemes which have been invaluable in supplying staff to them. also to Maureen Lacken, Gerry Murphy (RSS) and Elizabeth Fair (Tús) who support them on a on-going basis.

The late John Duffy, a great friend of Ballina Community Centre.

May, 2018

Can you give the gift of time?

If you have free time on your hands you can volunteer for a couple hours a week just call into Ballina Community Centre meals-onwheels they will be more than happy to meet you.

Committee members: Back row: Kay Carroll, Pat Nolan, Linda Neary, Joe Doland and Lilly Nealon. Front: Sr. Kevin, Bert Dosinio and Eilish Duggan.

Sr. Kevin, Eamon O’Boyle and John Lowry (voluntary drivers from Rotary Club), with Bridie Reilly, cook.

Official opening of Ballina Community Centre in 1971 by the then Tainiste and Minister for Health Mr. Erskine Childers, (who later became President of Ireland); Sr. Aquinas and visitors from the local community.

May, 2018

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

13

Citizen Information Centre, Ballina Pictures and words by

Susan McCabe THE Citizen Information service is a confidential information, advice and advocacy services provided free of charge and open to all.

Impartial and nonjudgemental, Citizen Information Centres are independent, local organisations who are registered charities, governed by a voluntary Board of Directors.

The Ballina Citizens’ Information Centre is located at Dillon Terrace, Ballina. It’s open Monday to Friday: 10am to 1pm and Tuesday: 2pm to 5pm.

Upon talking with Brendan Boyle, I learned that the Citizens Information is a drop -in service that provides a face-to-face service that is a free, confidential and independent service. This service is available in over 250 locations nationwide and you do not need an appointment.

This service provides information and advice on your rights and entitlements to a broad range of public and social services, no matter what stage you are at in your life. Citizen Information gathers and source information from various government department and agencies and they make sure that the community have all the information they need to access their rights or entitlements presented in in an easy to understand way.

SO HOW CAN CITIZEN INFORMATION HELP YOU? They can help you get what you are entitled to, such as

Brendan Boyle, Ballina Citizens Information Centre.

information on payments and allowances. They help the public to fill in forms, and with any appeals or to make a complaint.

The Citizen Information service can provide information on the following: Housing matters with regards to l Renting and owning a home, local authority and social housing, housing grants and schemes, planning permission or landlord and tenants’ rights.

Education and training: l offer advice on preschools, education and childcare. l Grants for returning to education, vocational education and training Employment: l Starting work, changing your job, employment contracts, maternity and paternity leave, employment contracts – rights and conditions, redundancy and retirement.

Health l Medical cards, GP visit

cards, drugs and medicines. l Woman’s and children’s health services l older people and those with disabilities.

Family matters l Getting married, l Services for children – adoption, fostering l Family income supplement, l Rights and entitlements for single parents. l Bereavement, wills and probate.

Social welfare l Finding what you are entitled to and claiming your benefits, social assistance, means tests, disability and illness benefit, carers and supplementary welfare schemes.

Moving country l Visa requirements for entering Ireland l Irish citizenship and leaving Ireland Looking towards the future Ballina Citizen Information Centre will continue to do the following: – Ensure that members of the community have access to accurate, comprehensive

Picture by Niall Fitzgerald

and clear information relating to social services – Will assist and support the community, in particular those with disabilities, in identifying and understanding their needs and options.

– Promote greater accessibility, co-ordination and public awareness of social services – They will support, promote and develop the provision of information on the effectiveness of current social policy and services and to highlight issues which are of concern to users of those services – To support the provision of, or directly provide, advocacy services for members of the community with a disability.

– To support the provision of advice on personal debt and money management through the Money advice and Budgeting Service So if you are struggling to access your entitlements drop in and they will be more than happy to offer a face to face service that is completely free confidential and independent with no appointment necessary.

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

14

May, 2018

May, 2018

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

15

Dolmen Clubhouse C.L.G. Susan McCabe CLUBHoUSES originated in New york in 1948 when former patients of a New york psychiatric hospital began to meet informally as a ‘club’, a support network for people living with mental illness. This was in response to the lack of mental health services available. Since its inception Fountain House has served as the model for all subsequent clubhouses that have been started around the world.

Dolmen Clubhouse began operating in 2002 in Teeling Street, Ballina, with a membership of just ‘three’.

They then moved to a new premises in 2014 in Bohernasup.

In 2003, a sister clubhouse was set up in Newline, Castlebar, called the Cairde Clubhouse.

There is now a membership of over 250.

AIMS The aim of the clubhouse model is to encourage independence, support and empowerment and also to increase social inclusion for people recovering from mental health problems.

OBJECTIVES l Help to reduce isolation felt by people experiencing mental health problems l Increase greater respect and understanding within the community for people suffering from mental illness l Provide a place where members can avail of social, recreational and cultural amenities l To reduce the risk of re-

admission to hospital by being a first place of contact for members.

They provide a service to people suffering with mental health issues through their drop in centres in Ballina (096 78907) and Castlebar (094 9250570, supporting members to identify and achieve their goals on their journey towards recovery.

Members can come in and have a cup of tea, chat with staff, have a game of pool, do a little gardening in their poly tunnel, watch a little television or chill out in the ‘quiet room’ by playing relaxation music, participating in a meditation session or doing a little yoga.

This service is made possible through grant support from CSP and HSE as well as ongoing local funding, e.g. flag days, church gate collection, table quizzes, raffles, etc.

The clubhouses are first and foremost local community drop-in centres that offer people with mental health

issues hope, encouragement and opportunities to achieve their full potential and it is most importantly a community of people working together to achieve a common goal in Ballina and Castlebar.

The service is directly targeted towards persons suffering with one form or another of mental illness, depression, personality disorders, schizophrenia. etc., and covering the age group from 18 and above. all members must be under the adult Mental Health teams in Ballina/Castlebar.

They try to eliminate some of the stigma surrounding mental health by being based centrally in the community.

For a person living with mental distress, simple things cannot be taken for granted. The reality is that many of their members have a constant sense of not fitting in, isolation and rejection and the clubhouses aim to overcome this.

The Clubhouses are unique in that they are open seven days-a-week, including late opening and weekend opening, thus providing an out of hours service that is not provided elsewhere.

Many members are on disability/illness benefits and financially have not got the resources to go to pubs/ cafes, etc., to pass the time and to socialise. The clubhouses are very much meeting places offering emotional and social support as opposed to a treatment or medical programme. all clinical aspects have been removed so as to focus on individuals rather than their illness.

It is estimated that one in four of us will experience mental health problems in our lifetime from a low period to serious depression to a small

number who will experience severe mental health problems (Source: HSE).

Depression is a very common condition which affects more than 450,000 people in Ireland at any one time. This is one in ten people in the country.

OUR RANGE OF ACTIVITIES INCLUDES; Information l Providing an information service on issues relating to mental health illness through information factsheets and the HSE website. l Supporting local mental health services, Mental Health associations and self- help groups in their work by providing information and advice to our clubhouse members of other services that may be beneficial to them e.g. aware, Grow l Providing information, support and advice on available benefits and social welfare.

Social l Providing recreational classes in aromatherapy, diet and nutrition, first aid, arts and crafts, music in mind (drums and percussion group), dancing, internet access, computer skills, social skills, cookery demonstrations. l organising swimming, walking, cycling and gardening groups. l organising day trips – planning recreational events e.g.: in house pool competitions, quizzes, bingo and board games.

Personal Development l Working with Mayo North

East to provide responses to community education including literacy and numeracy skills for our members.

Training l Supporting members looking for employment opportunities, assisting with application forms and curriculum vitas and advice on further available support. l Liaising with the Education and Training Board in

Ballina and Castlebar regarding educational groups available. l Support with internet, email and computer work.

Advocacy l Liaising with companies regarding direct debits, bill payments, making GP appointments l Supporting members to research suitable housing or accommodation and arranging landlord/tenant viewings.

BALLINA

OPENING HOURS

Pictures and words by

Monday: 12.30 - 9pm Tuesday: 12.30 to 9.30pm Wednesday: 12.30 - 9.30pm Thursday: 11.30 - 9.30pm Friday: 9.30 - 6pm Saturday: 2 - 6pm Sunday: 2 - 6pm

CASTLEBAR Monday: 12 - 9pm Tuesday: 12 - 9pm Wednesday: 12 - 9pm Thursday: 1 - 5pm Friday: 1 - 5 pm Saturday : 9.30 - 6 pm Sunday: 9.30 - 6 pm

l Liaising with tenant/landlord issues, rental, arrears etc.

Upon visiting Dolmen view Clubhouse I got to speak with one of their members called Solas. I asked him the following questions Q. How did you find out about Dolmen Clubhouse?

A. I found out through the HSE Q. How long are you attending the Clubhouse?

A. about four-and-half years.

Q. What are the benefits of Dolmen Clubhouse?

A. The social part – meeting new people, having emotional support, and knowing that you’re not alone.

Q. What is your favourite part of Dolmen Clubhouse?

A. Smiles, chatting around the table, going on tours and playing pool, and most importantly just making good friends along the way.

Q. What would you do if Dolmen Clubhouse wasn’t there?

A. I would have spent more time in the recovery room and I would be in the pub.

Q. What has Dolmen Clubhouse done for you as a person?

A. Dolmen has been very important to me because it provides me with support and active participation.

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

16

COMHAIRLE CONTAE MHAIGH EO MAYO COUNTY COUNCIL

Mayo Community Futures Mayo Community Futures is now inviting communities, who require assistance in doing community action plans, to apply for the next round of the Mayo Community Futures Programme.

The programme assists communities to prepare a fiveyear Mayo Community Futures action Plan throughout a six month period.

The plan is prepared, with the support of a Community Support Volunteer, following a detailed consultation process that involves all sectors and residents in the community. a local representative steering group is set up to guide the process.

Mayo Community Futures aims to support stronger,

more proactive communities and encourages more people to get involved locally. 30 communities have participated in the programme to date.

YOUR CHANCE TO TAKE PART Community action planning is now becoming more important.

By participating in the Mayo Community Futures Programme, you identify the projects that the community as a whole think are most

important for the future of your area. Mayo Community Futures action Plans serve as a useful guide when applying to developmental and funding agencies and ensure your community is included in County strategies.

Communities wishing to participate must complete an application form.

The closing date for applications is Friday 25th May 2018, 5pm. application form available from: Mayo Community Futures, Community & Engagement, Mayo County Council, Castlebar, Co. Mayo F23 WF90 Tel: (094) 9047545, Website: www.mayococo.ie

May, 2018

WESTERN CARE COLLECTION Western Care association exists to empower people with a wide range of Intellectual and associated disabilities in County Mayo to live full and satisfied lives as equal citizens.

The annual Western Care association door-todoor collection takes place throughout Mayo during the month of May. Western Care thanks the people of Mayo for their generosity in 2017 and hopes our collectors will be met with the same support this year. The success of the door-to-door collection is attributed to the dedication of the valuable voluntary collectors.

GORTOR ABBEY PIER Competing fishermen set off at 10am. Weigh in at 6pm ENNISOE HOUSE Tall Tales & Deadly Drawings, Marine Biology Workshop, Fly Fishing Demonstration, Nature Walks, Fishy Tales and more

May, 2018

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

17

18

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

May, 2018

May, 2018

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

19

Community events guide

SELF-EMPPLOYMENT ADVICEE ARE YOU CONSIDERING SELF-EMPLOYMENT? ELIGIBLE FOR THE BACK TO WORK ENTERPRISE ALLOWA ANCE E SCHEME? Mayo Norrth th East LEADER Parrtner tnership rship provide free business mentoring clinics for eligible busin nesses in the following areas: Ř 5HJXODU VHOI HPSOR\PHQW ,QIRUPDWLRQ 6HVVLRQV Ř 2QH WR RQH JXLGDQFH RQ SURJUHVVLQJ \RXU EXVLQHVV LGHD Ř 6XSSRUW LQ DSSO\LQJ IRU WKH '63 %DFN WR :RUN (QWHUSULVH $OORZDQFH %7:($ DQG 6KRUW 7HUP (QWHUSULVH $OORZDQFH 67($

Ř $FFHVV WR VHOI HPSOR\PHQW UHODWHG WUDLQLQJ

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATIONS WE can change the world with digital technology, but how will that technology change us? a bold, exciting, and innovative international conference focusing on the cultural impacts of the digitisation of society.

Featuring speakers from the worlds of technology, film, arts, culture and creative industries, attendees will come face to face with the digital society, with the people who are making it happen, the artists who are trying to find

meaning in it, and the academics, and policy makers who are trying make sense of it. you too will have a chance to participate in the debate.

This 2-day conference is bringing a panoply of speakers from Ireland, Europe and North america to share radical thinking about the digital society.

See http://www.digitaltransformat ions.org for more information.

Early registration €80

Child friendly, but adults must remain with children at all times

Ballycroy National Park Visitors Centre Tel: 098-49888 | Email: ballycroyvisitorscentre@chg.gov.ie

19-20 May 2018 Ballina Arts Centre

FOR MORE INFORMA ATION TION ON O ANY Y OF THE ABOVE PLEASE CON NT TACT: Niamh Charlton: 7HO 087 -66623 340 (PDLO niamhcharlton@mayonorrthe t ast.com

7R JHW UHJXODU XSGDWHV IROORZ 0D\R 1RUWK (DVW RQ )DFHERRN faceboo ok.com/MayoNorthEast The Social Inclusion and Community Activation P Programme (SICAP) 2018-2022 is funded by the Irish Government thrrough the Department of Rural and Community Development an nd co-funded by the European Social Fund under the Programme forr Employabilityy,, Inclussion and Learning (PEIL) 2014-2020

www w.mayonortheast.com www.facebook.com/MayoNo orthEast

twitter..com/MayoNorthEast NorthEast

CHILDREN OF LIR FESTIVAL, BELMULLET

MAY 25 - MAY 27 The Children of Lir Festival will celebrate the connection between the Erris region and the world-famous ‘Children of Lir’ legend. Events and activities will take place throughout Erris, where locals say that the next parish over is New york!

It will revitalise the story of the Children of Lir through song, music, art and vision and open-up a pre-existing natural gem for the area, bring it to life for both locals and visitors to enjoy and share.

Carter Square, Belmullet Tel: 087 2169625 | Website: www.gaolsiar.com

20

MAYO NORTH EAST NEWSLETTER

Be part of your

W

ELCoME to the third edition of your Community Journal newsletter. The newsletter will be published monthly, both in print and digitally.

The Community Journal aims to promote action and participation and to foster the sharing of ideas, experience and information in the Mayo North East catchment area for a better community.

The newsletter also aims to strengthen the relationships between employees and employers of Mayo North East Partnership Company, as well as creating and building relationships within the community.

In the following editions of the Community Journal we will publish a community noticeboard, which will include a diary of community news, events, education and training courses,

May, 2018

In addition to providing a forum to advertise your upcoming events, the Community Journal is looking for good story ideas, articles photographs, poems, graphic artwork, etc. and welcomes outside contributions.

You can contact the Community Journal by calling 096-77615, or email: communityjournal mayonortheast@gmail.com Find us on facebook

mayonortheast communityjournal

Your contribution will enrich the newsletter and make it more attractive