MENTAL HEALTH IRELAND · MHI CHAIRMAN’S REPORT 2013. It gives me great pleasure to introduce the...

annual report 2013

MENTAL HEALTH IRELAND

Chairman’s Address 03

CEO’s Welcome 05

Funding and Fundraising 06

Work of Mental Health Associations and Development Officers in 2013 07

Key MHI Projects and Activities 2013 08

Summary of Mental Health Association Events by region 15

Human Resources 40

Directors’ Report and Financial Statements 41

Directors’ Report

Independent Auditors’ Report

Audited Accounts

Appendix: Local Mental Health Associations 60

MENTAL HEALTH IRELANDSupporting Positive Mental Health and Wellbeing

Mensana House2 Marine TerraceDun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.

Tel: 01 284 1166 Email: [email protected]: www.mentalhealthireland.ie

Twitter: @mentalhealthirlFacebook:/Mental.Health.Ireland

AUDITORS JPA Brenson Lawlor,Argyle Square,Morehampton Road, Dublin 4.

DATE OF INCORPORATION As a company limited by guarantee22nd November, 1966.

PLACE OF INCORPORATION Dublin, Republic of Ireland

REGISTERED OFFICE Mensana House2 Marine TerraceDun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.

BANKERS Bank of Ireland,Smithfield, Dublin 7AndAIB Investment Managers Ltd.,Percy Place, Dublin 4.

MENTAL HEALTH IRELAND Supporting Positive Mental Health

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CHAIRMAN: Mr. Brian Glanville

HONORARY SECRETARY: Mr. John McGetrick

HONORARY TREASURER: Mr. Brendan Madden

BOARD MEMBERS: Mr. Joe CaseyMs. Maria MolloyMr. P.J. MurphyMr. Michael HughesMrs. Fidelma RyanMr. Neil HughesMr. Seamus McNulty

chairman’s addressMHI CHAIRMAN’S REPORT 2013.

It gives me great pleasure to introduce the Annual Report and Accounts of Mental Health Ireland for the year 2013. In particular, because I am able to bring you good news, on a number of fronts, about the long-term future of our organisation.

The first piece of good news is that during the year the very long running pension dispute was settled. The terms of the settlement agreement were fully implemented and the claimants withdrew their High Court proceedings and formally accepted that all pension matters in dispute had been settled. I am extremely happy to be able to tell you that as of today there are no legal proceedings being taken against Mental Health Ireland in relation to any matter.

The funding for the settlement came from the sale of Mensana House, 6 Adelaide Street, Dun Laoghaire. This necessitated us finding and moving to a new home at No. 2 Marine Terrace, Dun Laoghaire. This is a rental property.

As you may imagine, the move to new premises after so many years was a huge task that was inevitably disruptive of the Head Office function. I want to acknowledge and pay tribute to the work of the staff at Head Office in helping to ensure that the disruption was kept to a minimum. The move was planned with military precision and executed with energy and enthusiasm.

The second piece of good news is that following the retirement of Brian Howard after 14 years’ service as MHI’s CEO, we were able to recruit a new CEO, Orla Barry. She came with extensive relevant experience of both the statutory and voluntary sectors and with vision, energy and enthusiasm. She took up her appointment on 1st October 2013. Your Board believes she is the right person to lead the organisation through a process of renewal and regeneration. I’m sure that having met her you will also have been convinced of this.

In November the Board commissioned Shane McQuillan of Crowe Horwath to carry out a governance review of Mental Health Ireland. This included a review of Mental Health Ireland’s relationships with the HSE and with our local association members. A first draft of the report was considered by the Board in January 2014 and, following some amendments, was unanimously adopted. The implementation of the report’s recommendations will have wide-ranging implications for us all.

In adopting the Crowe Horwath report’s recommendations the Board is of the view that they represent the best way forward for Mental Health Ireland and we will be offering our wholehearted support in implementing them.

Another piece of good news the Board began the process of renewal. We were very fortunate in being able to co-opt four new members. They are Charlie Burke, Chairman of the Wicklow Mental Health Association, a service user and someone who has had a long association with Mental Health Ireland. He brings those perspectives to our Board deliberations.

The second person co-opted is John Fitzmaurice, manager of the Jigsaw youth mental health project in Galway. He originally trained and worked as a teacher and has considerable experience in the field of youth mental health. As you know, Mental Health Ireland has long been involved with young people through its various mental health education projects. John’s expertise in the field will guide the Board as we seek to strengthen our work in this area.

The third new member is Neil Hughes, a chartered accountant and the managing partner of Hughes Blake chartered accountants. He brings with him considerable

Mr. Brian GlanvilleChairman

MENTAL HEALTH IRELAND Annual Report 2013

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expertise in financial management and a capacity to ask, and help answer, hard questions.

Finally, our fourth new member is Seamus McNulty, recently retired from a senior management position with the HSE. He has extensive experience of the mental health services and at one time was the national lead manager for mental health. His experience and expertise have already made an extremely valuable contribution to our decision-making.

Having told you earlier about recruitment to the Board, I now turn to the matter of retirements. Joe Casey, Michael Hughes and John McGetrick are all retiring after many years dedicated service. The organisation owes them an enormous debt of gratitude, particularly for their steadfastness through the difficulties of recent years. We will miss their wisdom and companionship but we know that we have not lost their friendship nor they ours.

In previous Chairman’s reports I and my predecessor gave a good deal of space to the cutbacks and the impact of the economic recession more generally. In particular, we have been concerned at the negative impact of the cuts on mental health service users at the frontline. That concern was just as real in 2013 as in the previous year and seems likely to be even more justified in 2014. The mantra coming from Government and the top of the health service tree has been ‘do more with less’ but as the health correspondent of the Irish Times argued in a recent article, the health service is now being so damaged by the cuts that it has arrived at the stage where “it is now doing less with less”.

However, despite all of the pressure on HSE senior managers to squeeze economies out of the system wherever possible, we have managed to maintain close working relationships and I want to express the Board’s thanks for their continued funding support of our work.

I am now coming to the end of my term as Chairman. I am very grateful for the personal support which I have received from all Board members since they decided to appoint me to that office; knowing that I had their support and encouragement has been absolutely essential in making it possible for me to fulfill the role.

While expressing the Board’s appreciation and gratitude to the CEO and to all the staff team for their loyalty, commitment and an excellent year’s work, I also want to express my own personal thanks for the timely, thoughtful and generous support they have given me during my time in the Chair.

So to sum up, I think 2013 has been a year of real achievements, laying the foundations for substantial progress in the years to come. I am convinced, despite the financial constraints which will likely be with us for quite some years, that we can face the foreseeable future with confidence both in ourselves and in the strength of our partnerships with others.

Brian GlanvilleChairman.25th May 2014.


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In joining Mental Health Ireland on the 1st October 2013 I knew I was joining a community mental health organisation with a long history of promoting mental health and educating communities about the needs of people with mental health difficulties and their families and friends.

In the 1960’s the activities of Mental Health Ireland and the network of Mental Health Associations focused on the psychiatric institutions. Providing support to patients, families and carers and preparing communities for the long process of deinstitutionalisation. The services we see now have grown and adapted from that time. Social housing, social groups, befriending; mental health education and training initiatives all have a root in those early initiatives of community education and supporting the inclusion of people who experienced institutionalisation back into the community. In this report you will see many examples of these activities delivered by committed volunteers over many decades. In the past months, as I have visited Associations throughout the country I am continually heartened by the dedication and commitment of so many volunteers; family members, people with lived experience and people who work within the mental health services, coming together to add value to services and to enhance people’s lives.

So much of the education and community development work is carried out by the Development Officers, a group of ten resourceful individuals, who work in regional areas throughout the country. With a wealth of skills, knowledge and experience the Development Officers are the glue of the network, working flexible hours in local communities, promoting a very grounded message of mental health and wellbeing. The network of Mental Health Associations and Development Officers are in turn supported by a small dedicated staff in Mental Health Ireland’s head office in Dun Laoghaire.

I am honoured to lead Mental Health Ireland as we approach our 50th anniversary in 2016. With the support of the Board, staff and volunteers I welcome the challenge to prepare the organisation for a new phase in the coming decades. Mental Health Ireland is up to this challenge. We will add real value through high quality work in health promotion, education, training and research. We will enhance and strengthen the capacity of our volunteer network of Mental Health Associations to support the recovery and social inclusion of people who experience mental health difficulties and the development of peer-led initiatives. We will continue to be a committed presence in local communities involving families, carers, professionals and service users promoting mental health and wellbeing and enhancing health and social initiatives.

In all of this we will be true to our roots, to educate local communities about mental health and to support people with mental health difficulties on their journey of recovery. I wish to thank the Board of Mental Health Ireland for its support; the committed team of staff, who are embracing change; the Mental Health Associations, working in local communities across Ireland; our funders within the HSE and elsewhere; and all our supporters and followers.

I encourage you all to keep watching and see where Mental Health Ireland is destined in the coming years.

Orla Barry, Chief Executive Officer, Mental Health Ireland

chief executive officerORLA BARRY, INCOMING CEO

Orla BarryChief Executive Officer


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funding & fundraising

Mental Health Ireland is grateful to the Health Service Executive for their continued support and funding throughout 2013, which was a productive year for Mental Health Ireland and its 104 Mental Health Associations. This was due in no small part to the continued assistance from the HSE. Mental Health Ireland has one Development Officer currently on secondment from the HSE. The HSE also directly funds six of Mental Health Ireland’s Development Officers in the areas of Donegal, Midlands, North East, Sligo/Leitrim, West and South East. Mental Health Ireland is indebted to all the Local HSE Managers of these areas. Mental Health Ireland is particularly grateful to the HSE offices in the Eastern region for their on-going support and funding.

Our many volunteers throughout the country are regularly involved in a variety of interesting fundraising initiatives which generate crucial revenue for their Mental Health Associations, thus enabling their valuable activities. It would be impossible in our Annual Report to list all volunteer fundraising activities, however, some are laid out in the Local Mental Health Association Achievements 2013 section. Examples of fundraising initiatives during 2013 included race days, coffee mornings, table quizzes, golf outings, church gate collections and mini-marathon sponsorship.

The support of Health Service Executive has been particularly important in facilitating the continued development of local services.


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work of mental health associations & development officers in 2013

CORE ROLE OF MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATIONSCurrently 104 local Mental Health Associations (MHA’s) and branches are affiliated to Mental Health Ireland (MHI). They share the same aims and objectives as the national body. Members of local MHA’s work on a voluntary basis in their communities supported by a team of Development Officers (DOs). All MHA activities promote positive mental health and are involved in supporting individuals to develop coping and life skills. MHA’s actively promote social supports and networks and also work to address structural barriers in areas like education, employment and income support for people with mental illness.

All local MHA’s welcome opportunities to work in partnership and to develop projects with other voluntary and statutory agencies in their region. Our MHA’s would like to acknowledge the support of the management and staff at local HSE Mental Health Services in the provision of their activities.

Core role and duties of the Development Officers (DO) include:> To support current MHA’s in the region each officer serves and to develop new MHA’s. All work reflects the mission statement of MHI and works to the policy of the Board of MHI.> To promote the aims of MHI by attending meetings of local MHA’s to listen, advise, motivate, support, encourage and emphasise the valuable contributions volunteers can make in areas such as:

> Mental Health Promotion

> Training

> Befriending

> Social Housing

> Fundraising

> To support Mental Health Education including promotion of our Public Speaking Project, informative talks to students, public lectures, exhibitions, seminars, liaising with local press and encouraging the growth of a network of local mental health expertise.

> Providing support for local MHA’s whilst recognising their needs and encouraging an exciting programme of activities.

> Sharing of information on national projects and new developments taking place in other MHA’s in the region/country.

> Foster the development of active mental health education programmes by facilitating the local MHA’s in their involvement with schools and community groups

> Assisting and encouraging local MHA’s to enhance their profile within local communities by fostering community involvement with the possibility of attracting new members.

> Acting as a resource to the local MHA’s with the emphasis on local volunteer involvement in work, as opposed to the DO’s carrying out the work directly.

The Development Officer reports formally to MHI’s CEO. On an ongoing basis the DOs work in partnership with the local HSE Mental Health Services Managers and staff in pursuing the aims of MHI and the local Mental Health Associations.

VolunteersVolunteers make an enormous contribution to the work of MHI around the country, actively supporting people with a mental illness and supporting positive mental health in their communities. An increasing number of information queries come from individuals looking for information on volunteering with MHI and getting involved in local projects and activities. Our team of DOs work with volunteers around the country supporting them in their work and providing training to them.


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mhi key projects & activities

MHI KEY PROJECTS & ACTIVITIES The active promotion of positive mental health remains at the core of all our activities. This can be seen through the work of our local Mental Health Associations, our Development Officers and through our national projects.

World Mental Health Week in October each year offers all involved in the organisation the opportunity to deliver the message of positive mental health. All 104 Mental Health Associations got involved in Mental Health Week by hosting events and fundraisers in their local communities raising much needed awareness around mental health and wellbeing.

Building Resilience Together CampaignMental Health Ireland continued its Building Resilience Together Campaign to coincide with World Mental Health Week in October 2013.

The idea for the campaign originated in Australia where the Mental Health Association of New South Wales (NSW) which is based in Sydney ran a similar campaign over a three year period promoting the concept of resilience throughout the many communities both rural and urban in NSW. Mental Health Ireland forged links with the MHA in NSW and decided to adapt the campaign to the Irish context. The campaign was very well received both locally and nationally during mental health week.

The Building Resilience Together campaign was promoted by the Development Officer team through the network of community fora in each area. The aim of the campaign is to promote awareness and understanding of Resilience at an individual and community level and to increase the capacity of communities to enhance their resilience.

Projects to run in tandem with the Strategic Plan 2009—2013.> National Public Speaking Project

> Mental Health Matters

> Young Mental Health Ireland Project

> Recruitment of new volunteers

> Training programme for volunteers

> Service Users consultation process

> Development of information data, new website

> MHI Merit awards

> National Choral Singing Project for World Mental Health Week

> Mental Health Ireland and Ladies GAA

MHI CORE ACTIVITIES WITH HSE AND NATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS Health Service ExecutiveMental Health Ireland continued to meet on a regular basis with local Mental Health Associations and the Health Service Executive around the country in order to facilitate effective communication and dialogue. Development Officers engage frequently with the HSE and other statutory bodies. They have developed effective and professional working relationships with them. These relationships have proved positive in fostering and promoting the aims of the HSE, MHI and local Mental Health Associations.

Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) and Training for TrainersOur Development Officers deliver training under the ASIST Training Programme to help individuals recognise and intervene to help people at risk of suicide within their work, social, community or family group.

The DO’s are trained to deliver the ASIST programme and they are supporting the delivery of this project nationally in conjunction with the HSE. Many of them are also qualified to ‘Train the Trainers’ and are supporting HSE Health Promotion Teams throughout the country in rolling out this programme.

A National Positive Mental Health and Suicide Awareness Project in collaboration with HSE and the Soroptimist International Republic of Ireland.

Our Development Officers liaise with the HSE Resource Officers for Suicide Prevention and the local Soroptimist officers in delivering this community based Mental Health Awareness project, by delivering talks and information nights around the ‘Building Resilience Together ‘message in conjunction with the partners.


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The aim of this project is to create awareness about mental health through information sharing by interacting with the community.

The objectives of the partnership project are to:

> Assist with the provision of appropriate and approved information to the community.

> Reduce Stigma associated with mental health within the community

> Assist with the work to build a more suicide alert community.

JIGSAW GALWAY AND JIGSAW ROSCOMMONIs a partnership between Mental Health Ireland, Headstrong and the HSE. Developed by Headstrong the Jigsaw model is an innovative, evidence-based approach for organising services and supports to enhance the mental health and well-being of young people. It is designed to promote systems of care that are more accessible, youth-friendly, integrated, and engaging for young people. The basic premise of Jigsaw is that whatever their level of need, young people should be able to access quality support, when they need it, in settings where they feel safe, comfortable and respected. It is about meeting young people where they are.

JIGSAW GALWAY/ROSCOMMON... AN UPDATEMental Health Ireland is delighted to be associated as one of the core partners in the Jigsaw project in Galway/Roscommon. The integration of Roscommon Jigsaw into the project is further evidence of the vision and innovative thinking behind this best practice model of Youth Mental Health.

This innovative project is going from strength to strength. It is now firmly established as the benchmark for delivery of Youth Mental Health Services in Ireland. The project has been developed by the partners in consultation with young people at every step of the way. This has proven to be the core of the project, listening to young people on their thoughts, opinions and suggestions on how the project should be developed and delivered.

The other essential element of the success of the project is the extraordinary commitment and dedication of the staff. This talented team has gone the extra mile at all stages of the project development to ensure the delivery of high quality care and information to the young people of Counties Galway and Roscommon.

MHI is committed to the project and we look forward to the time when every county in Ireland has its own replica project.

INTERNATIONALWorld Federation for Mental Health (WFMH)Mental Health Ireland is a member of the World Federation. The WFMH was founded in 1948 to advance among all peoples and nations. They aid in the prevention of mental and emotional disorders, in the proper treatment and care of those with such disorders, and in the promotion of mental health.

Mental Health Europe (MHE)MHE is a representative organisation of Associations and organisations in the field of mental health in Europe, including consumers, volunteers and professionals of many disciplines. MHE has members in 30 European countries. All the member states of the European Union are represented in the membership. Its primary aims and objectives are to:

> Support its member organisations with their developments and their struggle for acknowledgment and funding through information exchange and consultation.

> Develop and formulate policies and strategies on mental health issues.

> Initiate co-operation and communication between the stakeholders in mental health.

> Lobby the European institutions in order to raise the profile of mental health.

> Act as a forum for exchange and information on health and social policies in the mental health field.


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SOCIAL HOUSINGMany MHAs are actively involved in the development of social housing programmes. At present, local MHAs own, rent or manage nearly 100 housing developments, ranging from single unit apartments for independent living to high support residences with full-time staff on site. Upward of 550 people are currently living in MHA housing. Of these places in MHA housing over 200 places are high support, nearly 100 places are medium support, approximately 180 places are low support and the remaining places are independent living accommodation. Housing in different areas around the country is featured in our section on the work of different local MHA’s.

INFORMATIONMental Health Ireland provides an information service to the public on issues relating to mental health. Information requests are received by telephone, email and letter. Email queries are the most common source of information queries.

Queries relate to sourcing information on mental health/mental illness, information on where to seek help and information on support services available for specific mental illnesses. Queries came from concerned family members, friends and also from individuals themselves. Mental Health Ireland also received a number of requests for its own information and promotional material from a number of organisations, businesses, hospitals, schools and colleges. Information queries are also made by individuals interested in volunteering for the organisation. In addition to the information service, other means of communication include information leaflets, press releases and the MHI website.

In 2013, one edition of Mensana News was published and widely circulated. The magazine summarised some of the work undertaken by local MHAs and Development Officers at a national, regional and local level within the organisation.

MHI WEBSITEMental Health Ireland’s website is another means of people accessing information around mental health, positive mental health and the projects and events which are held throughout the year.

There were over 100,000 visitors to the MHI website in 2013, 62% of these were within the Dublin region.

Visitors have access to all national projects and regional events that MHI and the DOs are involved in, they can also access information about mental illness, finding support and looking after their mental health and wellbeing. Visitors can download all the MHI literature in English and Polish, and the latest Mensana News magazines and Annual Reports. They can also make a donation online and to buy the MHI CD and Christmas Cards online as well as registering for upcoming training courses.

Throughout the year the top pages on our website which were accessed were;

> Mental Health Ireland (About us and our Calendar of Events)

> What is Mental Ill Health

> How do I get help and finding support

> Mental Health Promotion

> Downloading Publications

FACEBOOKMental Health Ireland has a Facebook Page which allows us to have a social media presence that enables MHI to share our projects and events with our Facebook ‘Friends’. There are currently 3,200 ‘Friends’ of Mental Health Ireland on Facebook and 155 members on our Young Mental Health Ireland page. This is up over 600 new ‘Friends’ since 2012 and this is increasing every day.

MEDIA

In 2013, Mental Health Ireland received its media alerts from Headline.

Headline is Ireland’s national media monitoring programme, working to promote responsible and accurate coverage of mental health and suicide related issues within the Irish media.

The vision of Headline is that all forms of the Irish media responsibly and accurately portray mental health and suicide related issues; that no one is adversely affected by media coverage of these issues and that the mental health and mental well-being of the population be prioritised by the media.

Headline also serves as a vehicle for the public to become involved in helping to monitor the Irish media


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on issues relating to mental health and suicide.People with in an interest in how mental health is reported on can sign up for Headline’s media alerts about media coverage.

Mental Health Ireland’s staff and Development Officers now receive email alerts about particularly positive or negative media portrayals of mental health issues and suicide.

The Headline weekly news update is a permanent feature on our website homepage is.

WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2013BUILDING RESILIANCE & ME TIME=COFFEE TIMEMental Health Ireland ran three national campaigns this year for World Mental Health Day – Building Resilience, National Choral Singing Project and Me Time = Coffee Time. We continued to support local Mental Health Associations with their annual local activities. Both National Campaigns ran very successfully.

The National Campaign “Building Resilience Together” received the attention of our National Press and was rolled out by our Development Officers, Local Mental Health Associations and volunteers. The ‘Building Resilience, Sign up, link in, get involved’ campaign focused on building resilience in developing individuals’ strengths and abilities to bounce back from the challenges and setbacks that life presents us with. This initiative was replicated from a successful project pioneered by the Mental Health Association of New South Wales, Australia.

Mental Health Ireland asked the general public to protect their mental health and well-being by - Signing up, Linking in and Getting Involved. Suggestions to the public included:

Sign Up – for a course, learn a new language, how to paint or improve your computer skills. Teach yourself a new skill, sign up for some physical activity which enhances both physical and mental well-being and reduces the effects of stress.

Link in – with local services. Seeking help early can help you bounce back to health more quickly. If you have a mental health problem you may like to join a support group. Link in with family and friends as a source of support and protection for mental well-being. Take time to nurture close relationships,

Expand your social networks. Reach out to someone you know is isolated, an elderly neighbour or friend or colleague living alone, you will enrich your own life as well as theirs.

Get involved - Volunteering is an excellent way to get involved and help out in your local community. Find a cause you are passionate about that matches your interests and skills. Practice random acts of kindness, small, regular acts of kindness have been shown to improve both mental and physical health. Get involved in the community. Start your own special interest group.

National Choral Singing Project For the sixth year running Mental Health Ireland collaborated with the Association of Irish Choirs to highlight the positive benefits of choral singing to people’s mental health. Choirs took part nationwide organising workshops, open rehearsals, performances in the streets, shopping centres, hospitals and day care units, and ‘sing from scratch’ events. National Choral Singing Week is the joint initiative of the Association of Irish Choirs, Wexford County Council Arts Office and Mental Health Ireland.

Local Mental Health Associations and Development Officers helped choirs to organise and to publicise their events. Volunteers around the country linked with local Choirs and came up with unique ideas to get people to celebrate positive mental health by joining together in song.

Our local Mental Health Associations also completed their usual unique local events, many of which have been running for many years and have become traditional in their local areas and these are highlighted in the Summary of Events by Region section of the Annual Report. Examples of some of these are:

> Information stands in prominent local public areas manned by volunteers who can answer the publics’ queries and provide them with local and national mental health information and support.

> Positive Mental Health Talks in schools, Active Retirement groups, Hospitals, Local Community Groups, Libraries etc.

> Local Radio - Information sharing about positive mental health. Supporting listeners, thought for the day etc.

> Leaflet distribution; art competitions and essay


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writing projects in schools with the theme ‘Positive Mental Health’.

Press and media coverage highlighted many of the events around the country which bear testament to the amount of goodwill and effort that went into promoting mental health and raising awareness of mental health issues. Reports from around the country demonstrate the variety of events, not to mention the various partnerships between local MHA’s, the Association of Irish Choirs, the Health Service Executive and many other local and community groups.

ME time = Coffee timeIn partnership with Coffee Culture, coffee shops and cafes all over the country donated proceeds from their coffee sales to their local mental health associations during Mental Health Week. This was a successful campaign with over €3,000 raised in total and it generated great awareness in communities across Ireland.

MHI TRAINING AND EDUCATION PROGRAMME 2013In 2012, MHI launched its formal Training and Education Programme which consisted of 18 modules on a broad range of mental health issues. This training programme was a huge success and was rolled out in 2013 also. The training was open to anyone who had an interest in learning more about mental health. Places were limited to 25 people. All of the workshops were delivered in the Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley, Dublin from 10am to 4pm. Each course cost €25 or €10 for the unwaged and this price included course materials and light refreshments and lunch.

Topics which were covered in 2013 included;1. Mental Health Matters Training for Non-Teachers

2. Understanding Mental Health

3. Introduction to Health Promotion and Mental Health Promotion

4. Building Resilience Together

5. Stress Management

6. Caring for Carer

7. Mental Health and Young People

8. Mental Health and Older Adults

9. Coping with Unemployment

10. Introduction to Mood Disorders

11. Coping with Mental Illness in the Family

12. Substance Misuse and Mental Health

13. Introduction to Suicide and Self Harm Awareness Workshop

14. Men’s Mental Health – Interactive Workshop

15. Understanding Stigma, Discrimination and Mental Illness (including information on Accessing Mental Health Services & Advocacy and Mental Health)

16. The Recovery Model

17. Social Housing

18. Mental Health Matters Training for Teachers *free of charge

Participant’s backgrounds included;> Professionals e.g. counsellors, carers, social care workers, project workers and co-ordinators

> Teachers and Guidance Counsellors

> Students

> Members of the general public

MHI PROMOTION IN SCHOOLS AND WITH YOUNG PEOPLENational Public Speaking ProjectIn 2012-2013, over 150 schools participated in the National Public Speaking Project.


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The Final was held in Trinity College, Dublin on Saturday 27th April 2013. Coláiste Eoin, Hacketstown, Co. Carlow were the winners of this year’s competition. The topic was “The media and its values: a power to destroy, to build and to enrich our mental health.” The Project owes its on-going success to the support received locally and regionally and Mental Health Ireland acknowledges with sincere thanks the significant contribution made by students, teachers, school managements, parents, local MHA’s, Development Officers and Head Office staff. We are particularly indebted to the members of the National Steering Committee for their ongoing commitment to the Project.

Design a Cover Art ProjectThis National Art Project for students in Post Primary Schools and Colleges was once again well supported. Out of over 1,200 entries received from students around the country, seven entries were selected for exhibition at the National Public Speaking Final on the 27th April 2013. The quality of the artwork submitted was of an exceptionally high standard.

Emma Rogan, St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Castlebar, Co. Mayo was announced as the National Winner. Emma’s picture is of a girl crouched in the centre of a drawing of a heart which she is drawing around herself and the caption is ‘Happiness is an inside job’. Her artwork was used on the front of the 2014 Calendar. The Project compliments the National Public Speaking Project in schools and affords students the opportunity to express their vision of mental health through the medium of art.

Photographic ProjectThe Photographic Project was introduced in 2009 to engage a greater number of students in developing an awareness of mental health by presenting them with an alternative medium through which they can portray positive mental health. In 2012-2013, there was a significant increase in the number of entries received.

Áine Gorman, Mount Mercy College, Model Farm Rd., Bishopstown, Co. Cork was announced as the National Winner. The photograph shows a heart carved in the sand encircling the word LIFE. The caption reads “Love Life – Live it to the fullest’.

Young Mental Health IrelandYoung Mental Health Ireland (YMHI) is an initiative by Mental Health Ireland to open dialogue with young people and encourage them to influence the thinking of our national organisation on how best to respond to the concerns and issues that young people have regarding positive mental health. We want to liaise directly with young people and find out how we can best assist them and how they can help in our organisation’s goal of positive mental health for all. Each year when students participate in our National Public Speaking Project they are invited to join YMHI.

Mental Health MattersThe Mental Health Matters resource pack was originally developed by MHI, as a mental health education and promotion programme which was introduced to all Post-Primary Schools nationwide in 2001. The programme is designed to be realistic and help people identify and access relevant support so they can respond in appropriate ways to emerging mental health difficulties in their lives.


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The programme aims to trigger discussions and role play on issues such as substance misuse as well as bullying, relationship difficulties and family conflict. The programme also addresses the issue of stigma, and aims to reduce stigma associated with mental health by encouraging participants to talk openly about their emotions and mental health difficulties. To receive a resource pack one must complete the one-day facilitator workshop. The Resource Pack has been in existence now for 11 years and is still very popular with teachers.

Due to increased demand from other sectors, in 2011, Mental Health Ireland made the MHM Facilitator Training available to individuals working in many fora outside the school setting, such as, organisations working on behalf of the HSE, community groups, youth groups and the voluntary sector.

Development Officers throughout the country can train teachers in its use and recently there has been a marked increase in other organisations within the HSE, Community groups, the voluntary sector, FETAC and Youthreach enquiring about facilitator training.

In 2013, a number of Mental Health Matters Facilitator Training courses were organised around the country, including; Dublin, Donegal, Offaly, Meath, Sligo, Mayo, Roscommon and Waterford. Feedback from participants has been very positive.


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summary of events by region

Arklow MHA ARKLOW MHA continued to support and enhance the quality of life of those managing a mental illness and attending the local Day Hospital. The Association was part of the organising committee of the 4th Annual Youth Mental Health Week for second level students in Arklow.

Activities included:> The Mental Health Information Stand in the local library continued to be a success and was checked and stocked on a regular basis by persons attending the Day Hospital.

> The organisations social outings included trips to Dublin Zoo and the National Museum at Collins Barracks and a Christmas party.

Bray MHA BRAY MHA continued to support and enhance the quality of life of those living in the Bray area and attending the Lincara Day Hospital. The core activity was the weekly social club held in the Community Centre, Boghall Road where, in addition to refreshments and chat, a wide range of activities including bingo, karaoke, art, crafts, singing and board games took place. Upwards of 14 persons attended each week and the Club became part of their social calendar.

Activities included:> Outings were provided to the local theatre ‘The Mermaid’.

> Respite trip to Kilkenny for a weekend

> Talks on homelessness, bullying and eating disorders.

Dun Laoghaire MHADUN LAOGHAIRE MHA The core activity was supporting the weekly social club in Dalkey for persons who are actively managing a mental illness. Upwards of 40 persons attended the Club each week

and the Club became an integral part of their social life. Chat, refreshments and many activities like, pool and table tennis competitions, social outings and holiday outings were organised.

Activities included:> Organisation and management of the preliminary and county rounds of the National Public Speaking Project.

> Members of the Association, Declan Kavanagh and Anthony Doyle sat on the local HSE Mental Health Services Super Catchment Area Advisory Group.

MindeIreland –Troy trip to Cork

Glencree Trip

south dublin / east wicklowdevelopment officer: michael nobleno. of local mhas: 6arklow mha, wicklow | wicklow mha, wicklow | bray mha, wicklow vergemount & district mha, south dublin | friends of newcastle mha, wicklow dun laoghaire mha, south dublin


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Friends of Newcastle MHAFRIENDS OF NEWCASTLE MHA continued its valuable work providing additional resources to Newcastle Hospital to enhance the treatment and recovery of those attending it.

Activities included:> Maintaining the Recovery Garden

> Developing the Sli na Slainte Routes

> Funding of the National Public Speaking Project in County Wicklow.

Vergemount & District MHAVERGEMOUNT AND DISTRICT MHA continued their core activity of a financial assistance programme which provided modest financial support to individual clients and residences of the local mental health services for a range of activities including gym activities, courses, equipment and social events.

Activities included:> Lobbying local government representatives on various mental health issues.

> Securing a lottery grant to provide respite care for up to 40 people

Wicklow MHAWICKLOW MHA continued to play an effective role in providing regular mental health talks, information and supports for the population of Wicklow and its surrounding area. Anna, with the assistance of Hilda, continued the weekly social club ‘Companions’. In addition to refreshments and chat, activities included photography, weaving, knitting and nutrition. Organisation of social outings to cinemas, restaurants, shopping centres, theatres etc.

Activities included:> Provision of various articles on mental health issued to the local media

> Wicklow MHA in partnership with Coillte (The Irish Forestry Board) developed an eco therapy programme “Woodlands For Health” with service users on referral from Wicklow Mental Health Service with funding from Mental Health Ireland. University College Dublin (UCD) and the Health Service Executive (HSE) are carrying out evaluations and a full report will be provided to MHI in 2014.

Launch of Coilte Walk and Talk with Minister Kathleen Lynch


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Drumcondra & District MHA DRUMCONDRA AND DISTRICT MHA met every six to eight weeks at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Fairview and attracted one new volunteer in 2013. The organisation elected a new Chairperson, Mary Casey, a new Treasurer, Mary Whelan and a new Secretary Sile McGrane.

Activities included:> Volunteers recruited and organised women to take part in the Women’s Mini Marathon raising €1391 for the Association.

> Funds were provided during 2012 for social outings, day trips, Christmas parties and a gardening project.

> Volunteers actively supported the Green Ribbon Campaign on behalf of See Change to promote positive mental health.

Dublin 15 MHA DUBLIN 15 MHA met on three occasions during 2013.

Activities included:> An Information stand was held at the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre last September as part of the Community Safety Week, the event was very successful with a lot of information requested and difficulties shared.

> Dochas (HOPE) - Bereavement support service: The association supports this service. This group held a public talk on 20th November on the topic “From Heartbreak to Hope” – coping with loss at a time of change. Delivered by Mr Christy Kenneally. The talk was very well attended. MHI leaflets were available to distribute.

Finglas MHAFINGLAS MHA held meetings every six to eight weeks at St. Helena’s Resource Centre, Finglas. There are five volunteers in the Association with one new volunteer joining in 2013.

Activities included:> Funding of €300 was contributed to Century Day Hospital, Finglas at Christmas for therapeutic and recreational activities.

> The association financially supported a speaker for two public sessions during a week of community mental health awareness activities in May and September 2013.

Fingal MHA FINGAL MHA continued to promote positive mental health in its area. Promotional material was distributed to local health centres and other public venues. The local rounds of the National Public Speaking project were also supported.

Friends of Kilrock HouseFRIENDS OF KILROCK HOUSE continued their activities to enhance the quality of life of the residents of Kilrock House. A key activity was regular visits by students from local schools to meet, chat and socialise with the residents. The friends continued to provide a range of social activities to the residence of Kilrock House including games, films and music.

St. Brendan’s MHAST. BRENDAN’S MHA continued to support the local HSE Mental Health services when possible.

Activities included:> The Association supplied mental health literature to local health centres throughout the area.

> SBMHA also supported the National Public Speaking Project.

south dublin / east wicklowdevelopment officer: michael cummins/michael nobleno. of local mhas: 6drumcondra and district mha | fingal mha | dublin 15 mha friends of kilrock house | finglas mha | st. brendan’s mha


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ATHY MHA ATHY MHA met four times in 2013. There are five volunteers; two lay persons and three from a HSE background.

Activities included:> Easter Egg and Christmas Raffles were held.

> Christmas Party for service users was held in Baltinglass.

> Funds were provided for social activities and mental health promotion.

> A people carrier is available for social outings.

BALLYFERMOT MHA BALLYFERMOT MHA held four meetings during 2013 and there are four volunteers in the group.

Activities included:> Bullying in the Home, Workplace and of Older People Dr. Tony Byrne & Sr. Kathleen Maguire delivered a talk on the above topic in the Ballyfermot Civic Centre on Wednesday, 6th March 2013 which was a great success

> Funds were made available to support Christmas activities. A grant was provided to help with the development of an outdoor area for the residents of the Lionsville Hostel.

CELBRIDGE MHACELBRIDGE MHA there are ten volunteers in Celbridge MHA, all of whom are lay persons. The Association meets three to four times each year. This group is well known in the Celbridge area and is well supported at its Annual Church Gate Collection.

Activities included:> The Association supported the maintenance of the people carrier patient transport based at Grove House Hostel which was used for social activities and the activities of Grove House.

> Stress Control Programme: This six week programme was held in Scoil Dara Secondary School, Main Street, Kilcock on Thursdays from 7.00pm to 9.00pm from 19th September to 24th October 2013 and was a great success. All attendees benefited greatly from this programme.

> Fàilte Isteach Drop in Club in Celbridge opened its doors every Monday morning to greet visitors,

mainly the residents from Grove House, who have come to socialise and enjoy some bingo and a chat with refreshments. The Club also holds a Christmas party every December.

> Turas Le Chèile Bereavement Support Service Celbridge MHA supports the activities of this service which, from its base in Kilcock, provides assistance in the North Kildare Region.

Crumlin & District MHACRUMLIN AND DISTRICT MHA met on eight occasions during 2013. There are twelve volunteers with a number of other people who support the Association’s projects on an ad hoc basis or as needed.

Ten of the volunteers are lay people with one from a Health Service Executive background. The Association’s members work hard to promote their aims and are always keen to be involved with other activities locally.

Activities included:> Cairde Le Chéile (Friends Together) Social Club meets two Wednesdays of every month. Social Outings are organised every second Sunday, if possible. At Christmas a group went to see the Panto and in March they attended Crumlin Musical’s Society’s production of the Sound of Music in Crumlin Primary School.

> In July 2013 a group went to Portlaoise for two nights incorporating a trip to Emu

> Bru Chaoimhin Adult Mental Health Service Day Centre in Cork Street, Dublin which is part of the St James’s Hospital service, was supported in their social activity programme through funds donated by the Association. The CDMHA also supported Dublin Mental Health Housing Association Ltd.’s hostel at Village House which opened in December 2008 and accommodates five residents.

> Members of Cherryfield have joined with Cairde in planning activities and promotional events including coffee mornings and quizzes.

> The Association volunteers were saddened at the death of Margaret after an illness in January. Margaret was a great supporter of all that is Mental Health Ireland, both locally and nationally, especially the National Public Speaking Project for second level senior

kildare/west wicklow, west dublindevelopment officer: michael cumminsno. of local mhas: 12athy mha, kildare | dublin 15 mha | ballyfermot mha, west dublin | celbridge mha, kildarefriends of larine house mha, kildare | celbridge housing mha, kildare naas, newbridge & kildare mha, kildare | crumlin & district mha, west dublin st. loman’s mha, west dublin | drumcondra & district mha | tallaght mha, west dublin


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students. Margaret was a willing supporter of any activity or cause responding with enthusiasm, drive and concern. Margaret will be missed by all.

Rest in Peace.

DRUMCONDRA & DISTRICT MHA Activities included:> Funds were provided during 2013 for social outings, day trips, Christmas parties and a gardening project.

> The volunteers were very supportive of the National Public Speaking Project 2012/2013.

DUBLIN 15 MHA Activities included:> Dochas Bereavement Support Service, supported by the Association, held a public talk on “From Heartbreak to Hope – coping with loss at a time of change” delivered by Mr Christie Kenneally, which was well attended.

> The Association linked with Dublin Housing MHA Ltd. Regarding social housing and may develop a social housing project through leasing.

NAAS, NEWBRIDGE & KILDARE MHANAAS, NEWBRIDGE AND KILDARE MHA six meetings were held during 2013. There are six volunteers, including one lay person and five with a HSE background.

Activities included:> Stress Control Programme: This is a six week programme one evening per week which was delivered in Athy, Newbridge, Baltinglass, Naas and Kilcock during 2013. The Association with the HSE Health Promotion Department supported the programme by providing funds for the printing of material.

> People Carriers: The Association managed the five people carriers that are based in Co Kildare. The vehicles are used for social outing and

the work of the centres and hostels and of huge importance to the members of the Association.

> Sound Advice – Study and Exam Tips Leaflet: The Association printed one thousand copies of the ‘Someone to talk to, Someone to Listen’ leaflet with local contacts added to the back page. These were distributed throughout Co Kildare.

> Creative Well Recovery Programme project was supported by the Association.

Life Cycle cheque presentation

St. Loman’s MHAST. LOMAN’S MHA held meetings on six occasions during 2013.

Activities included:> To support the rehabilitation services based at St. Loman’s Hospital and the hostel/group home network, in providing funds for social activities respite breaks and support activities of continuous education. Funds are provided through Health Service Executive /National Lottery Grants and small fundraising events where possible.

> The Association has two people carrier vehicles, based at St. Loman’s Hospital and Teach Ban Hostel in Newcastle. The vehicles are used daily for social activities. The Association organises the servicing and management of the people carrier vehicles with support from the local Health Service Executive management.


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TALLAGHT MHATALLAGHT MHA held meetings every four to six weeks at Sheaf House, Exchange Hall, Tallaght. The Association is linked with Threshold Training Centre, Main Street, Tallaght.

Activities included:> The Association supports the Wellbeing Café project at the Threshold Training Centre.

> The Association supported a WRAP programme in partnership with Threshold Training for persons attending the Adult Mental Health Service.

> “Handbags at Dawn” Sale of Quality Second Hand Handbags: which were donated by friends and colleagues. The “pop up shop” was held on Saturday April 20th 2013 at the Car Boot Sale in Tallaght Stadium. Funds raised were used to fund social integration projects that help to alleviate loneliness and isolation for people with mental health difficulties in the Tallaght area.

Tallaght MHA Bag Sale


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ATHLONE MHA ATHLONE MHA continued their support of social activities for the service users living in the community. The fund raising efforts included bag packing at SuperValu and participation in the mini-marathon.

Activities included:> Athlone MHA and the Institute of Technology worked together to plan the Community Mental Health Partnerships in the Community Module for the Social Studies Programme.

> Provided workshops in Stepping over from Primary to Secondary School for Athlone DEIS Schools

> Provided personal support for service users on an ongoing basis with regular social evenings and outings.

BIRR MHABIRR MHA provided funding for garden facilities for the Community Mental Health Centre, Wilmer Road.

Activities included:> Funded the development and launch of “Sounds of Silence” by the Kismet group – a service user choir developed by staff and supported by Birr MHA. It was a huge success with over 300 in attendance.

> Wellness Information Boards were launched in Birr and District GAA Clubs to promote positive mental health at club level with members

> There was a fundraising day of bag packing in Tesco for Birr MHA

> The annual holiday to Galway City for 20 service users was supported by the Association.

> Christmas Social Function was held at the Dooley Hotel, Birr which was also attended by service users from Rathdowney, Tullamore and Portlaosie Mental Health Services.

Birr MHA Information Board

LONGFORD MHALONGFORD MHA provided ongoing support for service users and fundraising activities included the Flora Women’s Mini-Marathon.

Activities included:> Developed an Organic Garden Project based at the Community Mental Health Centre, Longford.

> The Association hosted their ‘Monthly Birthday Bash’; the Birthday Lunch Project is for persons in the community who may not have anyone to share their birthday with.

> Minding Yourself – Lecture Series was developed in partnership with Longford County Library. It was a Nurturing Yourself Through Reading Project with over 65 people in attendance each week

MULLINGAR MHAMULLINGAR MHA supported the partnership project with Soroptimist Ireland and TEAM (Temporary Emergency Accommodation Mullingar).

> Promotion of the Association’s website: www.aisling.ie, is a unique website developed by Mullingar MHA to promote positive mental health and provide information on local resources to help people at times of crisis.

> Funded local mental health service users’ Art Exhibition in Aras Mullingar which is an ongoing project.

> Mullingar Credit Union donated €800 towards the seminar “Mental Health is Everybody’s Business”

midlandsdevelopment officer: finola colganno. of local mhas: 8athlone mha, westmeath | portarlington mha, laois | birr mha, offaly portlaoise mha, laois | longford mha, longford | rathdowney mha, laois mullingar mha, westmeath | tullamore mha, offaly


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PORTARLINGTON MHAPORTARLINGTON MHA supported holiday and day trips for mental health service users from Portlaoise to Ballybunion.

PORTLAOISE MHAPORTLAOISE MHA formally blessed their commissioned Monument in remembrance of former patients buried in the grounds of St. Fintan’s Hospital, from the counties of Longford, Westmeath, Laois and Offaly.

Activities included:> The monthly social club hosted a monthly Friendly People’s Club.

> Day trips for service users were provided by the Association.

RATHDOWNEY MHARATHDOWNEY MHA continued to support the local communities mental health needs.

Activities included:> Social afternoon and Bocce game with residents from Erkina House and Mooreville place.

> The Association received a donation from the Laois Foxhound and Mothers Union Group.

TULLAMORE MHATULLAMORE MHA provided ongoing support for local service users

Activities included:> Maintained the sensory garden at Birchwood House

> An Information Morning was held on mental health with club leaders/officers from local GAA clubs in the Tullamore area.

> Development of Mental Health Awareness Campaign for Tullamore GAA and Camogie

Tullamore MHA present the Tullmore HSE Mental Health Services with a people carrier


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Kilmallock & District MHA KILMALLOCK AND DISTRICT MHA has 12 members, some of whom are members of staff at the Ivy Gate Day Centre in Kilmallock with the remainder being interested local people. The Association met once every two months and their remit is to provide activities for the clients of the Day Centre and also to raise awareness of mental health and the issues surrounding this in their community.

LIMERICK MHALIMERICK MHA based its work on the Southside of the city. Its programmes attract people from all over the county and countrywide. The Association has varied projects. The Le Chéile social club drop-in centre is one of them and it has been in operation since May 2003. Le Chéile aims to provide friendship and opportunity to help people develop their talents and coping skills.

Activities included:> The Association organised a Galtee Mountain Climb to raise money and awareness for LMHA. It received a lot of local media publicity and the day was a huge success.

> The Mayor launched Mental Health Week with Brian Howard which received local media publicity.

NORTH LIBERTIES MHANORTH LIBERTIES MHA is located in the Northside of the city. The Association’s primary focus is to provide befriending and social activities to the residents of the high and medium support hostels and users of Belfield Day Centre. The Association continued to visit two residences on a monthly basis with music and treats provided for residents. A special effort was made for birthdays.

NEWCASTLE-WEST LIMERICK MHA NEWCASTLE-WEST LIMERICK MHA is based in Newcastle-West. The Association has five active members and meetings were held monthly. Public talks and workshops were organised to promote awareness, openness and understanding of mental health issues.

Abbeyfeale MHA Abbeyfeale MHA hosted a ‘Building Resilience’ youth mental health seminar which included speakers Michael O’Mahony, a local Psychotherapist, Jennifer McCmahon from Jigsaw and Dr Amanda Fitzgerald.

mid-westerndevelopment officer: linda power hoganno. of local mhas: 5kilmallock and district mha | limerick mha | west limerick mha north liberties mha | abbeyfeale mha


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Ennis MHA Ennis MHA serves a population of approximately 25,360 people. The primary focus of the association is to support people with mental health difficulties and to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing in the community.

Activities include:> The D.I.Z Club is a social club for people who experience mental health difficulties. Its aims is to promote social interaction and reduce isolation. It provides support to young people in recovery by running internal and external activities including arts and music projects and visits to the cinema, theatre and sporting events.

> Emotions Peer Support Centre is funded by Ennis Mental Health Association. It aims to empower persons in their physical, emotional, spiritual and mental development through generating an open, non judgemental environment. Examples of activities in the centre include WRAP, Advocacy workshops, Meditation, Tai Chi, Laughter Yoga and Mindfulness.

> Failte Isteach Provides assisted housing for those with long term mental health problems. Currently there are 2 apartments in Ennis which support 6 residents in total. Two Genio carers are employed to look after residents and the rehab team support residents through the Rehab Team.

Ennis MHA Cycle Against Suicide

North Clare Mental Health AssociationNorth Clare Mental Health Association covers a large rural population where many clients are living alone and are at risk of social isolation. Many of the association’s activities are aimed at encouraging integration, awareness and improving facilities of users.

Activities include:> Fund Public Lectures by local professionals in mental health area

> Support the local art projects in the local day centre

> Involvement in the clients social club

> Fund facilitators in Ennistymon Mental Health Social Club

> Fund refurbishment of Prague House Hostel

> Annual church gate collection in North Clare

> Support annual ‘Friends of Clare’ Mental Health Golf Outing’

West Clare Mental Health AssociationThe West Clare Mental Health Association supports people with Mental Health Difficulties and promotes positive mental health in the community in both rural and urban areas.

Activities include:> Colours of My Mind Performance Art Group performed at Ennis Mental Health Week. The group is made of previous mental health users from the Kilrush area. They perform their own songs and poems were the content was inspired through their own mental health illness and recovery

> West Clare MHA support Alan Schooman and Maureen Murphy artist with EMBRACE project to do art and dance classes with mental health users

> The West Clare Young Peoples Club is a social club for people who experience mental health difficulties. It continues to support participants through social activities and self care and personal development programmes

Shannon Mental Health AssociationThis Association has in the past ran Mental Health Talks in the community. Currently there are in need of new volunteers and this is my main task at present to recruit new volunteers for them. They are ran a PreValentines Dance night in February 2014 to revitalise their profile in the community and recruit new volunteers.

Aras FollainAras Follain Peer Support Centre, located in Nenagh, aims to reach as many of the population as possible living in the North Tipperary community who are

mid-westerndevelopment officer: elaine cunniffeno. of local mhas: 7ennis mha, clare | shannon mha, clare | nenagh and district mha thurles mha, tipperary n. | north clare mha, clare | west clare mha, clare


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experiencing mental health difficulties or who are at risk through isolation, disability or unemployment. Groups that meet in Aras Follain are as follows:

> Mens Shed a space for men to work on similar interest projects and support one another

> GROW meet weekly this is a peer support group who experience depression using the 12 step programme

> Spectrum meet monthly this is a peer support group for parents whose children are on the autistic spectrum

> COPE peer support group meet weekly and learn about coping skills, developing our WRAP plan and practising Mindfulness

> Social Circle weeks weekly for social activities for those with mental health difficulties and reduces social isolation

> Mums on the move meet weekly and supports mothers around parenting, coping and mental health. Parenting courses are offered.

> Young Girls Group meets weekly and is a space for young girls to make friends

> Welcome Brunch is held weekly and were people can eat and chat in a friendly environment

Thurles Mental Health AssociationThurles Mental Health Association supports people with mental health difficulties and promotes positive mental health

Activities for 2013 included:> The Failte club is a social club for people who experience mental health difficulties, continue to promote positive mental health and to assist participants in socialisation and integration through its various activities.

> The annual Christmas party and trips away are ongoing activities which the MHA continues to support

> Thurles MHA raised money through Christmas raffle hampers and choral singing in local pub Monk Gormans

Failte Club Thurles craft class and fabric sculpture workshop


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BAILIEBOROUGH MHA BAILIEBOROUGH MHA helped to sponsor and promote the County Cavan Public Speaking Final again in 2013. There was great local pride in Bailieborough Community School getting through to the Regional Final from County Cavan yet again.

Activities included:> Productive working relationship between the MHA and the staff and clients of the Bailieborough Mental Health Day Centre. The Association organised or sponsored regular parties, day trips and holidays during 2013

> As part of the Building Resilience Together Project, Bailieborough MHA in partnership with Bailieborough Community Resource House again hosted a ‘Cooking on a Budget’ course for 4 weeks 6 local ladies availed of this course which was partly funded by Cavan County Council.

> East Cavan Primary School Essay Project for 5th and 6th class students is going from strength to strength.

> Main source of funding for the MHA is the Annual Round Table Quiz and National Lottery grant.

> Regular monthly meetings are held in the Bailieborough Community Resource House who also hosted an information stand for World Mental Health Week.

Bailieborough Community School with Sean McKieran

BALLYBAY MHA BALLYBAY MHA continued their befriending project at St. Joseph’s Nursing Home.

Activities included:> Church Gate Collection, an important fundraiser for Ballybay MHA; areas included Ballybay, Latton, Tullycorbet, Doohamlet and Ballintra. There was a very big response from the community.

> Ballybay Community College TY class took part in the Public Speaking Project again this year, as well as supporting World Mental Health Day.

> Former Mental Health Ireland Development Officer, Michael McGinn, devoted his time as a volunteer to Ballybay MHA.

> Charlie Barker, local volunteer, adjudicated for Public Speaking at local, regional and national semi-final levels.

> Christmas Party was held and a monthly social club on a Friday morning was set up which has been a major boost to volunteering and profile in the area.

CARRICKMACROSS MHACARRICKMACROSS MHA continued their befriending project at Castleross Nursing Home, St. Mary’s Castleblayney and Clones Nursing Home.

Activities included:> Lottery grant major funding source.

> Regular visitation to Carrickmacross Day Centre and sponsorship of activities there.

> Coffee morning held to mark World Mental Health Day 2013.

> Youth Club supervision by MHA volunteers.

> Long established Carrickmacross/South Monaghan Primary School Essay Project ran again successfully in 2013 with good local media coverage.

> Volunteers promoted Monaghan MHA’s Cavan/ Monaghan Art Project and MHI national projects locally.

> Regular monthly meetings.

north easterndevelopment officer: seán mckiernanno. of local mhas: 12bailieborough mha, cavan | drogheda mha, louth ballybay mha, monaghan | dundalk mha, louth carrickmacross mha, monaghan | kells mha, meath | castleblaney mha, monaghan monaghan mha, monaghan | cavan & west cavan mha | navan mha, meath | cootehill mha, cavansouth meath mha, meath


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CASTLEBLAYNEY MHACASTLEBLAYNEY MHA continued their befriending activities with St. Mary’s Hospital. The Development Officer attended the Monaghan Youth Federation office and café at Dublin Road for the launch of Co. Monaghan Mental Health Week.

CAVAN MHACAVAN MHA – Development Officer maintained contact with network of volunteers around Cavan Town, its hinterland and West Cavan. There was ongoing liaison with local organisations; Disabled GO, CRAIC Advisory Group, Cavan Community and Voluntary Forum, Dept. of Community and Enterprise, Cavan County Council, Cavan Wheelchair Association, Comhairle na nÓg Youth Forum, and Cavan Youthreach on mental health issues.

Activities included:> Regular use by Development Officer of Cavan Community Radio and CavanTV.com to raise issues regarding mental health, exam stress etc.

> Green Ribbon promotion event in Cavan 3rd Level Institute during May 2013 - Green Ribbon Walk and Talk event in partnership with Coilte and IFA in Killykeen Forest Park May 2013

> Info stand at St. Bricin’s College Belturbet as part of the Cycle Against Suicide April 2013.

Cavan Institute against Cybre Bullying

COOTEHILL MHACOOTEHILL MHA continued their Befriending to Cavan General and St. Davnet’s Hospital, Monaghan.

Activities included:> Public Speaking; co-sponsor County Cavan Final with Bailieborough MHA.

> World Mental Health Day; distribution of literature to local public places.

> Christmas Party and Summer Tea Party for clients.

> Sponsorship for service user needs as requested.

DROGHEDA MHADROGHEDA MHA - Efforts to relaunch Drogheda MHA mainly focused on the local day centre run who are trying to start a Befriending Project.

> Development Officer visits day centre every 6 to 8 weeks to conduct a service user focus group.

> A number of Drogheda local MHI volunteers assist with the National Public Speaking Project in the North Eastern Region and distribute literature in public spaces.

DUNDALK MHADUNDALK MHA continued their Befriending and Bingo projects in the local hostels every two weeks for clients.

Activities included:> Public Speaking project – Dundalk MHA sponsored the County Louth final.

> MHA has produced a bookmark with top tips for mental health and contact information for local distribution.

> Main fundraiser “Rose Day” held in August 2013.

> New Year Party for 100 clients in Oriel Park took place in February 2013.

> Advocating for service users needs and rights in the light of constraining budgets.

> Regular monthly meetings.

KELLS MHAKELLS MHA continued its befriending to Climber Hall Day Centre on a regular basis.

Activities included:> Sponsored Public Speaking Project in County Meath

> Provided donations towards service user activities as requested, e.g. flower arranging, First Aid etc.

> Horticultural Tunnel donated by MHA now being used towards ongoing horticultural project at Climber Hall.

> MHA sponsored Christmas party held in Carnaross Inn during December 2013.


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> Donations to service users in need ongoing.

> Regular meetings.

> MHA joined with Kells People’s Resource Centre in hosting a World Mental Health Day coffee morning. The two organisations are also exploring ways of cooperating further.

MONAGHAN MHAMONAGHAN MHA sponsors the County Monaghan Public Speaking preliminary rounds and county final every year, involving at least six schools from the County.

Activities included:> Essay/Poetry project, which always attracts several hundred entries from local primary schools in North Monaghan, took place again in 2013. Over 200 young people and parents packed into the Westenra Hotel for the presentation of prizes and there was significant photo coverage in the Northern Standard local paper.> Church Gate Collection took place in 2013. A generous response from the local community was received again reflecting the good work of the organisation and its strong local reputation.> Co. Monaghan Art Project which is open to all second level schools in Monaghan took place again in 2013. Good coverage was given in the Northern Standard for this event also.> The MHA maintained good relations with the SOLAS service user run centre in the grounds of St. Davnet’s Hospital.> The MHA invested in two pull-up promotional stands to assist in the branding of its events.

NAVAN MHANAVAN MHA held their Social Club every Tuesday & Thursday evening, going from strength to strength. New pool tables were acquired. There was an average turnout of 50; Tuesday nights were especially busy. The Development Officer attends whenever possible to provide advice and support.

Activities included:> Social Housing for 6 people at Flowerhill, Navan – made a huge difference to their lives.

> Provision of 2 buses for social outings.

> Now regular “High Nellie” cycle on St. Patrick’s Day in aid of MHA took place again in 2013. There were many other local donations to the MHA throughout the year also.

> Proceeds from the Navan Fair Day in Summer were donated to MHA.

> Christmas Party was held in the Newgrange Hotel again in 2013 and was a great success.

Navan Housing Board World mental Health Day

SOUTH MEATH MHASOUTH MEATH MHA continued its Befriending every fortnight to Tara Suite, Dunshaughlin.

Activities included:> Eugene Tarbert of Tara Suite hosted service user involvement group which was held every 6 to 8 weeks during 2013, having started in October 2010. Feedback from service users on how they want service delivered, vital for statutory services and local volunteers alike, has been invaluable according to staff.


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Moville MHAMoville MHA continues to provide support to many people throughout Inishowen as well as people from Derry. The group meet on a monthly basis in Serenity House. In 2013 the Moville group helped with the running of Serenity House – providing training opportunities and various social activities to a wide variety of people all over inishowen. The group help organise courses like Stress Control, Green Prescription, Active Retirement as well as doing vital fund raising for Serenity House.

Moville Leanne Lynch and Mary Farren CAS

Letterkenny MHALetterkenny MHA maintains strong links with Cara House. Throughout 2013 the Letterkenny group, through its work in Cara House has continued to be a great support to many people who are struggling to cope with mental problems like depression and anxiety. There is facilities for people to come and relax, a lovely café for anyone to come and eat at a very reasonable price. The group fund raise and have organised Safetalk for workers in the child minding facility.

Falcarragh MHAFalcarragh MHA has supported the local Day Centre by providing financial assistance for entertainment for the users of the centre. Day Centres are a vital support for so many people all over Donegal. Many of these people have mild to moderate mental health problems and although they may be able to live with little or no support, they get great comfort from being able to go to their local day centre and socialise with other people from their community. The Cloughaneely/Falcarragh group are well established

and have great knowledge of their community and its needs. The group support the day centre and the local housing project financially and socially. The group link with Solas every World Mental Health day – a walk and talk programme in Falcarragh.

Dungloe MHAThe Dungloe MHA supports the Day Centre in the town. The group does not meet regularly although there are a lot of people help the association when needed such as with the church gate collection. The group also provide financial support to a local social group who’s members may have difficulties with mental health related issues such as low self-esteem, isolation, anxiety, depression or mild learning difficulties.

Donegal Town MHA Donegal Town MHA supports the Day Centre in Roanfield House through fund raising activities throughout the year.

Carrick MHACarrick MHA have strong links with the local community – providing support and voluntary work to the local housing project and Day Centre. The group have supported Tir Boghainne – a community group in Carrick. The group use the day centre as a venue to hold public events related to mental health.

Killybegs MHAThe Killybegs MHA is small in number but they did manage to have a Church Gate collection and the group supports the local Alzheimer’s Association in the county. The Development Officer has held information evenings in the locality and supports the group in any way he can.

Ballyshannon MHABallyshannon MHA has been meeting on a monthly basis. The group have begun to organise a monthly social evening for people from the Ballyshannon area. The group has strong ties to Advocating for Personal Potential – a local organisation that helps people with mental health problems to live to their maximum potential. With support from the Development Officer the group plan social events and information events within the Ballyshannon/Bundoran region. The group funded an advertisement on local radio about positive mental health during Mental Health Week and had a walk in Bundoran to mark World Mental

north westerndevelopment officer: bill vaughanno. of local mhas: 10ballyshannon and district mha | donegal town mha | carndonagh mha (gti) | dungloe mha carrick mha | killybegs mha | clonmany mha | letterkenny mha | cloughaneely mha | moville mha


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Health Day. The group gave financial support to the local community gardens.

Clonmany MHAClonmany MHA mainly support the Colmcille Housing Project and Day Centre in Clonmany. The group is well established and is very involved with the centre which means they do not have much free time to organise other events or activities as their work is quite time consuming. The centre is reaching a milestone this year and the group hope to organise some events to mark the occasion.

Carndonagh MHA - GTI (Get Together Inishowen)Get Together Inishowen is made up of members who mostly have completed the Worklink programme. The club is well structured and supported well by the Worklink staff. Because many of the group would have some form learning disability or mental health problem, they have developed a great bond within the group and feel confident to take on responsible roles such as chairman and secretary. The group have great initiative and have organised several fund raising activities throughout the year. The overnight social trips away is always carefully planned with everyone being allowed to have their say in choosing where they go.


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Ballymote MHAThis well established association has very strong connections with HSE Mental Health Service staff and with service users in the area. Volunteers continue to provide ongoing support to people with enduring mental health problems who moved from St. Columba’s Hospital many years ago. Many of these individuals now reside in Linden House or regularly attend The Rock Day Care Centre.

> Financial assistance was provided for people with mental health problems living locally and in group homes.

> Social support to service users in the Ballymote area, this includes visits to group homes and day care service and providing practical help with the organisation of social events and significant occasions.

> Annual church gate collection took place in August

Sligo MHASLIGO MHA’s social housing project, Ard Na Greine in Sligo Town, supported by volunteers, provides assistance to 9 people with mental health problems, as required, depending on the individual need of the clients. The housing project has taken up a considerable amount of volunteers’ time in 2013 with the general upkeep of the houses and meeting the needs of the residents. At a meeting of the housing committee in March, it was decided to increase rental rates due to the ever increasing cost of maintenance work. Residents were in agreement with this proposal. New TV systems were installed in each apartment in June. Promotional activities are generally carried out by the DO and volunteers are recruited to help out on a project by project basis.

> Beo Befriending Project. This project was sustained during 2013 by National Lottery funding and a programme of weekly activities was organised. These included things like disco’s, bowling, learning new skills including pottery making and art, pizza nights etc. the social activities are very well attended with at least 30 people in attendance most weeks. Attendees are from both the Mental Health Services and the Learning Disability Services.

> A series of talks which commenced in 2012 were continued into 2013 to develop a broad view of what mental health and illness is from a range of different perspectives. These talks were open

to the public and based around discussion of the viewpoint presented by each speaker. Topics such as spirituality, recovery, distress and suicide and effects of diet were among the many perspectives explored on each of the nights.

> Annual church gate collection took place in September.

> MHA funded the production of 30 Positive Mental Health Information Boards which DO distributed to clubs, schools and workplaces around the town. (see later in report for more details)

Easkey MHAEASKEY MHA volunteers have a close working relationship with the HSE mental health service staff.

Some of the services they provide includes:> The social housing project (Radharc Na Mara) for people with mental health problems. This provides housing for 12 people with a history of mental health difficulties. Volunteers are very active in maintaining the house and providing general care and support to the residents.

> Residents are involved in a horticultural project. They have a polytunnel on site in which they grow their own vegetables and plants. They are assisted in maintaining this project by two rural social scheme workers.

> Recreational and social activities for the residents of Radharc Na Mara. These include regular outings, art and crochet classes.

> Financial assistance for people with mental health problems in the Easkey area.

> Distribution of mental health literature in local schools.

Manorhamilton MHAManorhamilton MHA work in close association with Kilgar Day Care Club, Kiltyclogher, Co. Leitrim, which provides day care services to those in need in the North Leitrim area.

MHA activities throughout 2013 included:> Every year in Ballyshannon, the Bill Monaghan Memorial Table Quiz takes place to raise funds for the association.

> The MHA sponsored many social outings throughout the year for those experiencing mental health difficulties.

north westerndevelopment officer: rachel reillyno. of local mhas: 5ballymote mha, sligo | manorhamilton mha, leitrim | breffni mha, leitrim sligo mha, sligo | easkey mha, sligo


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> MHA sponsored the development of 6 Positive Mental Health Information Boards for the local area.

> Christmas dinner is provided every year in Manorhamilton.

Breffni MHABREFFNI MHA have continued their health promotion activities for people living in the local area especially those managing a mental illness, throughout 22

Some of their work included:> Breffni Mental Health Association continued to promote positive mental health in our local Leitrim area with various outings, meals and social events during the year. The annual Summer Barbeque was held in August for local mental health service users.

> Annual Church Gate Collection took place in September

> Breffni MHA engaged with the MHI ‘Me-Time’ campaign and approached local café Lena’s Tea Rooms to participate. The event was successful and almost €300 was raised.

> MHA sanctioned the funding of 24 positive mental health information boards for distribution around various clubs and community centres. Volunteers and the DO distributed the boards locally.

> MHA participated in the Suicide Seminar which was held in the Bush Hotel in December.

> A Christmas party took place in Drumsna Day Centre with food, gifts and music enjoyed by all.


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KILKENNY MHAKILKENNY MHA is a long established Association with very proactive volunteers. Social housing is one of the key projects of this organisation. It operates 5 family type houses throughout Kilkenny providing accommodation for 44 residents. The houses enjoy urban settings, allowing residents to be afforded accommodation that is both comfortable and appropriate in a setting that allows a full social integration in the community.

Activities included:> KMHA held their annual Dinner Dance in the Springhill Hotel. Almost 90 service users, families and staff were in attendance.

> KMHA held their annual BBQ in Hotel Kilkenny in early June. One of the biggest crowds ever attended with in excess of 140 people there.

> KMHA support social recreational activities for service users on a ongoing basis throughout the year.

SOUTH TIPPERARY MHASOUTH TIPPERARY MHA is a long established Association with a very active core group of volunteers. The Association actively supported service users by providing funding for parties, Christmas, Easter and other social functions and outings throughout the year. Annual holidays were also catered for and this project is hugely successful.

Activities included:> Cluain Training Centre –under the auspices of S.T. MHA – Provided training, education which is

CARLOW MHA CARLOW MHA was established in February 2010. The committee consists of community leaders, educators, HSE staff and people interested in positive mental health promotion. The volunteers worked very diligently to establish and promote the Association. The organisers contributed to newspaper articles on Mental Health Ireland and CMHA and also gave a radio interview.

Other activities included:> Book mark competition: Children from schools throughout Carlow competed in a bookmark design competition to highlight ‘talking about feelings’, ‘thinking happy thoughts’ and ‘having fun’. All designs were of an exceptionally high standard. The overall winner was Meadbh Broderick from 5th Class in Scoil Mhuire gan Smá. Meadbh’s book mark was printed and distributed to all schools involved.

> St Patrick’s Day Beer Mats The group produced 5000 beer mats with messages about positive mental health that were distributed to bars in Carlow, Tullow and Bagenalstown. The beer mats also had the contact details for the Carlow MHA. These were funding by CCDP.

> Green Ribbon Campaign May 1st saw the launch of the Green Ribbon Campaign

> We organised a number of talks to co-inside with the national campaign to “Start the Conversation about Mental Health”. All events with the exception of the walk are free.

> Mensana Fest coordinated with World Mental Health Day and included a week packed full of positive mental health activities and initiatives including drama, a 5km run/walk and men’s health, mindfulness, building resilience and coping with loss seminars. The week was a huge success in Carlow and they look forward to growing it year on year.

> Launch of the ‘Carlow Stiletto Sprint’ (1st May) to mark Green Ribbon This is the alternative WoMen’s Mini Marathon: The goal is to have up to 100 men running on Dublin Street in Stilettos on Sunday 16th June at 3pm.

south easterndevelopment officer: linda thorpecounties: carlow, kilkenny, south tipperary, waterford, west waterford, wexfordno. of local mhas: 7kilkenny mha, kilkenny | waterford mha, waterford | south tipperary mha, tipperary west waterford mha, waterford | west tipperary mha/tipperary town mhawexford mha, wexford | carlow mha, carlow


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FETAC accredited to 70+ trainees. There is a fully functioning restaurant which is open to the public.

> This restaurant provided the opportunity for training and employment for many trainees. A fully literacy programme is available. A new range of activities including Upholstery, Hair Dressing, Health and Fitness, Relaxation and the new Gym are very popular with the trainees.

> A new Garden Project is now up and running and is very successful both in the terms of what is grown and how enjoyable it is. Cluain also provide “Meals on Wheels” for the local community and is a truly integrated part of that community.

> S.T. MHA were active participants in the MHI public speaking project

> S.T. MHA actively support service users throughout the year by providing funding and opportunity to go on annual leave, day trips, educational trips & to enjoy dining out. They also provide funds to support the local resident artist Mia Kearney for materials and enables the service users to partake in & travel to the Lundbeck Art Expo.

> Physical Activity Initiative between S.T.MHS & S.T. MHA continue to support this initiative where they are supporting service users, who have recently transferred from the MHS to the community by paying for their membership at the leisure centre at the Park Hotel. This initiative will greatly enhance their lives & improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

WEST TIPPERARY MHA WEST TIPPERARY MHA was established in 2009. It is a very vibrant Association with a core group of very active and dedicated volunteers.

Activities included:> West Tipperary Mental Health Association held it’s second Annual ‘Balance Busking Competition’ in Tipperary Town on Saturday July 6th 2013 providing a wonderful atmosphere amid brilliant sunshine and superb entertainment on the streets of Tipperary town making it difficult for our judges, such was the very high standard of the contestants.

> Our prizes were kindly sponsored by AIB Bank Tipperary town and Tipperary Distribution to whom we are extremely grateful.

> West Tipperary Mental Health Association would like to thank the staff and clients of Cuain

Croi Day Care Centre, Tipperary town for hosting a Coffee Morning for Mental Health Day and donating proceeds to West Tipperary Mental Health Association.

> Also a very big thank you to Tipperary Gospel Choir for donating part of it’s proceeds from it’s CD ‘Happy Together’ to West Tipperary Mental Health Association.

WATERFORD MHA

WATERFORD MHA is a long established Association with a very active core group of volunteers. The Association gave financial aid to a number of services. Including the funding of parties, Christmas, Easter and other social occasions as well as providing funding for outings and for the provision of funds for those service users who found themselves in hardship

Activities included:> Waterford Mental Health Association has maintained its regular fundraising activities. Funding went towards parties and other social occasions, as well as towards outings and service users who find themselves in hardship.

> George Heaslip, Waterford MHA Chairperson, coordinated Mental Health Week events. These included a manned information stand throughout the week in the City Square and the Waterford Male Voice Choir kindly making their annual contribution with a public concert in the Square.

> Waterford MHA continues to support the National Public Speaking Project for second level schools but increasing demands on all schools has meant a fall-off in those taking part, including some of our keenest and most loyal participants.

WEST WATERFORD MHAWEST WATERFORD MHA was re-established in 2011 and has been busy recruiting new volunteers to the Association. Links have been strengthened with the local community services

Activities included:> Local members contacted the three libraries in the locality, Dungarvan, Lismore and Cappaquin and they agreed to distribute MHI literature with their books for the week. This venture proved to be a success and created huge awareness.

> MHI literature was distributed at all clinics in the West


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WEXFORD MHAWEXFORD MHA held seven meetings during 2012. The Association held a very successful fundraising event with the ladies taking to the roads around the village of Oylgate in what has become an annual event in the Ladies Mini-Marathon. Refreshments and entertainment were provided in Mernagh’s lounge. Well done to Evelyn Moulton who was the chief organiser of this year’s event. The event created awareness about positive mental health and was reported in the local newspaper.

Activities included:> Wexford MHA have purchased a premises in Wexford Town during 2013.

> Wx. MHA once again held a very successful fund raising event with a very the Ladies Taking to the roads around the village of Oylgate in what has become an annual event, in the LADIES MINI MARATHON.

> St. Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy were finalists MHI National Public Speaking. They were actively supported at all stages of the project by Wx MHA.

> KTAC- Killagoley Training & Activation Centre is once again the hub of activities in 2013

> St. Patrick’s Pitch & Putt Club is a hub of activity every Monday morning when 10 – 12 service users participate in the game. This initiative is actively supported by Wx MHA and is co-ordinated by Pat Murphy KTAC.

> Spring is a busy time a t KTAC- the tunnels are alive with activity as the planting season gets under way. Upward of 30 service users are actively engaged in this process.

> KTAC held coffee morning as part of the Green Ribbon Campaign which was well attended and enjoyed by all

> KTAC hosted their annual B.B.Q. on the weekend of Sept to mark World Suicide Day. It was very well attended with service users, relative and staff members having a wonderful afternoon.

> The initiative between Wx. MHA & Wexford GAA County Board has been very successful and the Positive Mental Health Awareness & Crisis Line Poster has been displayed in all GAA clubs throughout the county. Wx. GAA are very supportive of this initiative.

> Pat Murphy and other staff members of KTAC brought a group of service users to Gorey to the Springboard Art Exhibition by Kathleen Delaney. A great day was had by all.

> D.O. distributed information leaflets to FDYS- which they display at the premises in Wexford Town and throughout the county.

Poster campaign launch on Positive Mental Health


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southerndevelopment officer: dan o’connorcounties: kerryno. of local mhas: kerry mha + 9 brancheskerry mha | killarney mha | castleisland mha | killorglin mha | east kerry mha listowel mha | iveragh mha | tralee mha | kenmare mha | west kerry mha

KERRY MHA KERRY MHA continued to pursue its aims and objectives through a variety of activities undertaken throughout the county and, in particular, through the activities of the nine local branches and the Development Manager.

Activities included:A one-year pilot project has been launched in Ballyduff, Co. Kerry - The Ballyduff Community of Excellence in Promoting Mental Health Awareness and Well-being 2013. This would involve an inter-agency group and community representatives working together to bring talks, training, seminars and activities in the area of mental health and well-being to that community.

The group meets in Buds Family Resource Centre. This group has and will continue to consult with the community asking for their ideas and input on how best we can all promote mental health awareness and wellbeing.

Kerry Mental Health Association

Castleisland and District MHAAfter a year of hard work by the Castleisland and District Branch of the Kerry Mental Health Association (KMHA) and, in particular, the Second Chance sub-committee, a charity shop with a difference opened in Castleisland on 22nd November 2012.

This shop is very different. The money raised by the shop will be used only for mental health and well-being projects that benefit the people of Castleisland and District. The shop also has, what is called, a mental health awareness and information hub. This is a space where anyone can sit down and be by themselves, sit and have a chat or just pick up information on how to access supports for difficulties

they themselves or someone they know who might be experiencing difficulties.

Second Chance


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Ballinasloe MHABallinasloe MHA sponsored and coordinated a ‘Home Coming Quilt Art Project’ as part of the national 2013 Gathering Initiative. The quilt was made from a collection of 4” square patchwork pieces completed by members of the community in Ballinasloe, symbolically representing the coming together of the town. The completed Home Coming Quilt was displayed in the window of a premise in Ballinasloe Town. The quilt will be moved to the local Library in the New Year.

Clifden MHA2013 was a very busy year for Clifden MHA particularly in the area of fundraising and service user social inclusion activities. Social activities included day trips to Knock Shrine, Castlebar, and a trip to the Connemara Pony show in addition to swimming, bingo and dancing classes and the annual Christmas Party. One of the members ran the Dublin City Marathon, with all funds raised going to the MHA. The annual coffee morning was held during Arts week and again proved a very successful morning.

Gort MHAGort MHA’s main activity is in relation to the provision of a house for the HSE mental health service in Gort.

Galway MHAGalway MHA is actively involved in the areas of housing provision for service users and maintains a portfolio of nine houses, which provides accommodation for 41 clients when at full occupancy. The MHA ensure that the houses are maintained to the highest standards. Galway MHA is also very involved in social inclusion activities such as monthly cinema outings, weekly befriending visits at the day services, supporting the summer outings for service users, and fundraising. Lorna McMahon, former chair of the MHA, kindly opened her garden during the month of May to raise funds for the MHA. The MHA celebrated Mental Health Week by organising numerous events and activities such as the annual Choral Recital and supporting a service user’s art exhibition.

Lorna Gardening

westerndevelopment officer: nicola morley counties: galway city and countyno. of local mhas: 9 ballinasloe mha | loughrea mha | clifden mha | mountbellew mha | galway mhaportumna and district mha | gort mha | tuam and district mha


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St Josephs Mayo MHA

BALLAGHADERREEN MHABALLAGHADERREEN MHA has a membership of 12 consisting of community leaders, politicians, and HSE workers and is set up within the Community Development Project of which the DO is an active member. This Association is quite strong and is supported by the DO.

Activities included:> The Association provided a Living Links training programme for the county and set up the Living Links support project for the county in 2009. It has recently followed on with more training in Living Links, ASIST and Tune Up.

> The Association held its Church Gate Collection in September. The funds collected will continue to support ASIST, Tune Up and Living Links training for the county

> The Association completed the training for ASIST, Tune Up, and a second Living Links for the county during World Mental Health Week.

> The Association held their annual public vigil to remember loved ones who have died by suicide on September 10th at the garden of remembrance.

St Nathan’s Ballaghhaderreen

BOYLE MHABOYLE MHA was set up in May 2005. There were some problems around sustainability due to volunteer work commitments. The DO recruited volunteers from the local HSE and Co. Roscommon Supported Employment to ensure its sustainability.

CASTLEREA MHACASTLEREA MHA this vibrant Association was set up in May 2003 and is quite active and has a special interest in the promotion of mental health in young people. The membership is 12 with a core group of 8 from the local community.

Activities included:> Church Gate Collection with funds raised went to support the Association’s projects for the coming year.

> Coffee and Information morning was held in Foroige National Youth Project on October 14th at Castlerea. MHI had a stand on display and leaflets were distributed.

ROSCOMMON MHAROSCOMMON MHA meets on a monthly basis in Roscommon town. The membership of the Association has been sustained with up to 20 members with a core group of ten members.

Activities included:> The RMHA attracted public interest and membership due to their health promotion initiatives which enjoyed great media coverage; the media campaign, the advocacy work and the community partnerships developed by the DO. The RMHA are stakeholders in the local community adio Ros FM.

westerndevelopment officer:myra walshe counties: mayo, roscommonno. of local mhas: 9 ballaghaderreen mha, roscommon | ballinrobe mha, mayo | boyle mha, roscommon ballina mha, mayo | castlerea mha, roscommon | ballintubber mha, mayo roscommon mha, roscommon | castlebar mha, mayo | westport mha, mayo


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> The Association participated at the regional meetings with the HSE which have been re activated by MHI. This Forum provided a platform for local volunteers to voice their opinions on matters pertaining to the development of the Mental Health Services and other aspects of mental health promotion and advocacy and facilitated discussions of mutual interest.

> Current befriending activities include: > Funded visits to the cinema, theatre, concerts and social events in town centres throughout the county.

> Funding was donated to various mental health service centres.

> Supported the HSE social activities throughout the county.


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human resources

StaffThe work of MHI during the year was supported by a committed team of staff working under the direction of the CEO.

Mental Health Ireland Staff at December 2012Brian Howard Outgoing Chief Executive Officer

Orla Barry Incoming Chief Executive Officer

Ted Tierney Deputy Chief Executive Officer

Barbara Davis Secretary to the Board

Elaine Corcoran Administrative Officer

Lisa Manley Administrative Officer

Treasa Hanniffy Administrative Officer

Paula Moore Accounts Officer

Development Officer TeamLinda Power Hogan/ Elaine Cunniffe Mid West (Clare, Tipperary North and Limerick)

Finola Colgan Midlands (Laois, Longford, Offaly, Westmeath)

Michael Cummins East (West Dublin, Kildare/ West Wicklow, parts of Dublin North)

Michael Noble East (Dublin South / Wicklow parts of Dublin North)

Bill Vaughan North West (Donegal)

Rachel Reilly North West (Sligo & Leitrim)

Nicola Morley-Kilmartin West (Galway)

Sean McKiernan North East (Cavan, Louth, Meath, Monaghan)

Linda Thorpe South East (Carlow, Kilkenny, Tipperary South, Waterford, Wexford)

Myra Walshe/ Niall Dunne West (Mayo, Roscommon)

Also supporting Mental Health Ireland is Development ManagerDan O’Connor Kerry Mental Health Association


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directors’ report & financial statements


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local mental health associations& honorary secretaries

CARLOWCarlow MHANiamh O Shúilleabhain,Cois na Bheara,Montgomery Street,Carlow.

CAVANBailieborough MHAMs. Audrey Rogers,Duneena,Bailieborough,Co. Cavan.Tel: 042-9665239

Cavan MHAMr. Sean McKiernan, C/o Mental Health Ireland,2 Marine Tce., Dun Laoghaire,Co. Dublin. Tel. 01-2841166

CLARE Ennis MHAMr. Tom McGrath,‘Coole Lodge’, Francis Street,Ennis,Co. Clare.Tel: 065-6846922

North Clare MHAMs. Maureen McGrath,“Lickaune”,Kilnamona,Ennis,Co. Clare.Tel: 065-6836505

Shannon MHAMr. Anthony McMahon,20 Tullyvarrage Hill,Shannon,Co. Clare.086-2359277

West Clare MHAMs. Noreen Kelleher,McMahon & Williams Solicitors,Frances Street, Kilrush, Co. Clare.Tel: 065-9051009

DONEGALBallyshannon MHAMs. Danielle Lyster,28 Marian Villas,Donegal Town,Co. Donegal.

Buncrana & District MHAMs. Helen Rees-Doherty,GTI Club, Worklink Northwest,Ard Chlochar,Carndonagh,Co. Donegal.Tel: 074-9329718

Carrick MHAMs. Maeve Carr,Carrick Day Care Centre,Carrick,Co. Donegal.Tel: 074-9738322

Clonmany MHAMs. Marie Davenport,10, Gaddyduff,Clonmany,Co. Donegal.Tel: 074-9376582

Cloughaneely MHAMs. Teresa Kenny,Ballyness,Falcarragh,Co. Donegal.Tel: 074-9135236

Donegal Town MHAMs. Julie Connaghan,Rowanfield House,Clar Road,Donegal Town,Co. Donegal.Tel: 074-9721910

Dungloe MHAMs. Deborah Hegarty,Main Street,Dungloe,Co. Donegal.Tel: 074-9521386

Killybegs MHAMrs. Mary Connaghan, Five Points, Killybegs,Co. Donegal. Tel: 074-9741968

Letterkenny MHAMs. Susan McCauley,Cara Hse. Family Resource Ctre.,Market Square,Letterkenny,Co. Donegal.Tel: 074-9123986

Moville MHAMs. Mary Farren,Serenity House,Moville,Co. Donegal.Tel: 074-9382945

DUBLIN Ballyfermot MHAMs. Kate Downey,Unit 4, Cherry Orchard Hospital,Ballyfermot Road,Dublin 10. Tel: 01-6436940

Crumlin & District MHA Mr. Stephen Yeates,101 Brandon Rd.,Drimnagh,Dublin 12.

Drumcondra & District MHAMs. Sile McGrane,Tara House,140 St. Laurence Rd., Clontarf,Dublin 3.

Dublin 15 MHAFr. Dan Joe O’Mahony,The Oratory,Blanchardstown CentreAt the Yellow Entrance,Blanchardstown,Dublin 15.Tel: 01-8200915


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Dun Laoghaire MHAMs. Janice Huet,32 Rowanbyrn,Blackrock,Co. Dublin.Tel: 01-2892413

Fingal MHAMs. Paula Dwyer,Inch Community Residence,Balrothery, Balbriggan,Co. Dublin.

Finglas MHAMs. Iris Rusk,29 Huntstown Court,Mulhuddart,Dublin 15.Tel: 01-8217494

Friends of Kilrock House MHAC/o Michael Noble,Mental Health Ireland,2 Marine Tce.,Dun Laoghaire,Co. Dublin.Tel: 01-2841166

Hearth & MindBarbara Davis,c/o Mental Health Ireland,2 Marine Tce., Dun Laoghhaire,Co. Dublin.Tel. 01-2841166

St. Brendan’s MHAMr. Danny Connellan, Connolly Norman House,224 North Circular Road,Dublin 7.Tel: 01-8102935

St. Loman’s MHAMs. Susan Kehoe,Occupational Therapy Dept.,St. Loman’s Hospital,Palmerstown, Dublin 20.Tel: 01-6207414

Tallaght MHAMs. Claire O’Regan,Adult Mental Health Service,Sheaf House, Exchange Hall,Belgard Square North,Tallaght, Dublin 24.Tel: 01-4635200

Vergemount & District MHAMr. Brian Miles,C/o Glenmalure Day Hospital,Milltown Road,Milltown,Dublin 6. Tel: 01-2830388

GALWAYBallinasloe MHAMs. Jackie Eastwood,“Roselands”,Portnick,Ballinasloe,Co. Galway.Tel: 090-9644920

Clifden MHAMs. Bernadette Conneely,Elm Tree Centre,Galway Road,Clifden,Co. Galway.

Galway MHAMs. Emily Martin,Danesfield House,23 Sea Road,Galway.Tel: 091-587841

Gort MHAMr. Thomas Baker,Blackwater,Gort,Co. Galway.

Loughrea MHAMs. Anne Cuddy,Kilnadeema, Loughrea,Co. Galway.Tel: 091-841193

Mountbellew MHAMs. Catriona Long,3 Pairc nag Con,Mountbellew,Co. Galway.

Tuam & District MHAMr. John Feely, C/o Mental Health Information Ctre.,Bishop Street,Tuam,Co. Galway.

KERRYCastleisland MHA*Ms. Ann O’Callaghan,Shanowen Day Centre,Old Convent Lane,Castleisland,Co. Kerry.Tel: 066-7143782

East Kerry MHAMs. Áine Carolan,Shinnagh,Rathmore,Co. Kerry.

Iveragh MHA*Ms. Jackie O’Sullivan,Renard West,Caherciveen,Co. Kerry.Tel: 066-9472408

Kenmare MHA*Mr. Phil Coffey,Gortamullen,Kenmare,Co. Kerry.Tel: 064-40783

Kerry MHAMs. Joan McCarthy,“Birchdale”, Dunrine,Kilcummin,Killarney,Co. Kerry.


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Killarney MHA*Ms. Valerie McGee,21 Hawthorn Avenue,Killarney,Co. Kerry.

Killorglin MHA*Ms. Joanna Fitzpatrick,Curaheen,Glenbeigh,Co. Kerry.

Listowel & District MHA*Ms. Anne Enright,3 Clieveragh Park,Listowel,Co. Kerry.

Tralee MHA*Ms. Anne O’Brien,3 Canal View,Springfield,Ballyvelly, Tralee,Co. Kerry.Tel: 066-7124545

West Kerry MHA*Ms. Myrna Beardsworth,Kilshannig West,Castlegregory,Co. Kerry.

* Branches of Kerry MHA

KILDAREAthy MHAMs. Ann Phelan,C/o Athy Health Centre,Woodstock Street,Athy,Co. Kildare.Tel: 059-8633500

Celbridge MHAMs. Ann O’Connell,138 The Grove,Celbridge,Co. Kildare.Tel: 01-6272604

Friends of Larine House MHAMs. Elaine Meade,Larine House,The Square,Maynooth,Co. Kildare.Tel: 01-6289266

Naas/Newbridge & Kildare MHAMs. Aine Daly, Bramble Lodge,Station Road,Newbridge,Co. Kildare.Tel: 045-5434058

KILKENNYKilkenny MHAMs. Christina Hickey,St. Canice’s Hospital,Dublin Road,Kilkenny.Tel: 056-7784474

LAOISPortarlington MHAMs. Catherine McCann,“Rose Villa”,Ballymorris,Portarlington,Co. Laois.Tel: 0502-23686

Portlaoise MHAMs. Mary Daly,41 Marian Avenue,Portlaoise,Co. Laois.Tel: 0502-22736

Rathdowney MHAMs. Susan Hayes,Newtownperry,Rathdowney,Co. Laois.Tel: 0505-46452

LEITRIM

Ms. Mary Carroll,Clooncarne,Bornacoola,Co. Leitrim.

Manorhamilton MHAMrs. Carmel Loughlin,Lisgorman,Killorgue,Co. Leitrim.

LIMERICKKilmallock & District MHAMs. Ann Zray,5 Cois Abhann,Kilmallock,Co. Limerick.

Limerick MHAMs. Marie Breen,56 Monaleen Heights,Castletroy,Limerick.

North Liberties MHAMs. Jessica Griffin,The Old Mill,Bruree,Co. Limerick.

Raheen & District MHAMs. Sally Howard,Rehabilitation Unit,St. Joseph’s Hospital,Mulgrave Street,Limerick.Tel: 061-397080

West Limerick MHATeresa Ahern Bourke,Churchtown Day Hospital,Newcastle West,Co. Limerick.Tel: 069-61799


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LONGFORDLongford MHAMrs. Ann Howard,Creenagh,Co. Longford.Tel: 043-46903 (h) / 46992 (w)

LOUTH Drogheda MHAMs. Aine o’hEochaidh, A/ Sec.,Ballymakenny,Drogheda,Co. Louth.

Dundalk MHAMs. Annette Durnin,Ladywell Day Centre,Louth County Hospital,Dundalk,Co. Louth.

MAYO

Ballina MHA*Mr. Cathal O’Shea,Ballina Mental Health Centre,Mercy Road,Ballina,Co. Mayo.

Mayo MHAMs. Kathleen McHale,c/o Marsh House,Newtown,Castlebar,Co. Mayo.Tel: 094-9023350

Westport MHA*Ms. Marie O’Connor,Carrowbeg,Kilmeena,Westport,Co. Mayo.Tel: 098-41599

* Branches of Mayo MHA

MEATH Kells MHAMs. Patti Manning,(Chairperson), 31 Maple St.,Kells,Co. Meath.

Navan MHAMs. Kathy Kearney,5 Lambartstown Manor,Kilmessan,Co. Meath

South Meath MHAC/o Sean McKiernan,Mental Health Ireland,2 Marine Tce.,Dun Laoghaire,Co. Dublin.Tel: 01-2841166

MONAGHANBallybay MHAMs. Sharon Caraher,Knocknamaddy,Ballybay,Co. Monaghan.

Carrickmacross MHAMs. Marion Marron,Ardee Road,Carrickmcross,Co. Monaghan.

Castleblaney MHAc/o Sean McKiernan,Mental Health Ireland,2 Marine Tce., Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.Tel: 01-2841166

Monaghan MHAMs. Emer Brennan,Mullaghloughan,Glaslough,Co. Monaghan.

OFFALYBirr MHAMs. Claire Hernon,C/o Community Mental Health Ctre.,Wilmer Road,Birr,Co. Offaly.Tel: 057-9120576

Tullamore MHAMs. Catherine Conlon,4 Davitt Street,Tullamore,Co. Offaly.

ROSCOMMONBallaghaderreen MHAMs. Patricia Madden,C/o Northwest Roscommon CDP,Market Street,Ballaghaderreen,Co. Roscommon.Tel: 094-9862565

Castlerea MHAMs. Mary Reilly,Honorary Secretary,Knockroe,Castlerea,Co. Roscommon.Tel: 094-9620656 (H)

Roscommon MHAMr. Risteard Lloyd,11 Sycamore Crescent,Boyle,Co. Roscommon.


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SLIGO

Ballymote MHAMrs. Philomena Fagan,1 Cuain Iosa,Ballymote, Co. Sligo.Tel: 071-9189388

Easkey MHAMrs. Margaret Kenny,Carrowpadden,Rathlee,Easkey,Co. Sligo.Tel: 096-49076

Sligo MHAMr. Gerard McGlinchey,Streamstown,Ballisodare,Co. Sligo.Tel: 071-9167463

TIPPERARYNenagh & District MHAMs. Mary O’Sullivan,C/o Glenroyd House,Tyone,Nenagh,Co. Tipperary.Tel: 067-33866

South Tipperary MHAMr. Joe Cunningham,2, Davitt Avenue,Clonmel,Co. Tipperary.Tel: 052-22300 (w)

Thurles MHAMs. Ann Maher,72 Kennedy Park,Thurles,Co. Tipperary.Tel: 0504-22966

West Tipperary MHA Ms. Margaret Coskeran,1 RockspringsKilross,Co. Tipperary.Tel: 062 55489

WATERFORDWaterford MHAMr. Alan Lynch,32 Carrigeenlea,Cliff Rd.,Tramore,Co. Waterford.

West Waterford MHAMs. Noelle Conway,Lismore Day Centre,West Waterford,Co. Waterford.Tel: 058-54716

WESTMEATHAthlone MHAMs. Joan Halpin Hall,42 Rathbawn Road, Kilgarve,Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.

Mullingar MHAMs. Nodlaig Coffey,Rehab Unit, St. Loman’s Hosp.,Mullingar,Co. Westmeath.Tel: 044-40191

WEXFORDWexford MHAMr. Peadar Moulton,c/o Samantha Hassey,St. Senan’s Hospital,Enniscorthy,Co. Wexford.Tel: 053-9243200

WICKLOW

Arklow MHAMs. Samantha Seabrooke Earls,Portview Day Centre, Knockenrahan Ind. Estate,Arklow, Co. Wicklow.Tel: 0402-33844

Bray MHAMs. Siobhan Horan,7B Oldcourt Park,Bray,Co. Wicklow

Friends of Newcastle MHAMs. Suzan Odlum,C/o Newcastle Hospital,Greystones,Co. Wicklow.Tel: 01-2015120

Wicklow MHAMr. Charlie Burke,12 The Courtyard,Friars Hill,Wicklow Town,Co. Wicklow.


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MENTAL HEALTH IRELANDSupporting Positive Mental Health and WellbeingMensana House2 Marine TerraceDun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.

Tel: 01 284 1166 Email: [email protected]: www.mentalhealthireland.ie

Twitter: @mentalhealthirlFacebook:/Mental.Health.Ireland

MENTAL HEALTH IRELAND · MHI CHAIRMAN’S REPORT 2013. It gives me great pleasure to introduce the...

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