In 2016 Donaghmore Construction established a fundraising committee which raised funds throughout the year for two charities, one of which was Action Mental Health. Various charitable events were organised including a car wash on site at Banbridge, Giant’s Causeway Coast Sportive, an abseil down the Europa Hotel and a Christmas jumper day.  Supply chain partners also gave generously in lieu of Christmas gifts.

Claire Douglas, Donaghmore Construction said, “We would like to thank all who contributed throughout the year and are hopeful that the money raised will help both worthwhile causes to continue their good work throughout Northern Ireland.”

Accepting the cheque for £2,112.50, Callum Clark, Fundraising & Events Officer, AMH said, “We are incredibly grateful to Donaghmore Construction for their kind donation and for choosing Action Mental Health as one of their designated charities last year. We appreciate the time and effort it takes to organise fundraising events and are thrilled to receive over £2,000. This money will go towards improving the lives of people living with mental ill-health across Northern Ireland.”

There was a celebratory mood in Portadown Town Hall on 31 January as AMH New Horizons Craigavon & Banbridge recognised the achievements of their clients.

Lord Mayor Cllr Garath Keating was in attendance to present a range of certificates to mark the many accomplishments in areas including employability, IT, photography, horticulture, wellbeing and business and administration.

Speaking at the event Colin Loughran, AMH Service Manager said, “I am delighted to see the achievements of all the learners and applaud everyone on their hard work and recovery journey. It’s a pleasure to work with, and for, people so determined to make positive change in their lives no matter how small that role may be.

“Our staff team should be proud of their achievements in designing and delivering the broad range of opportunities for people to benefit from.

“The achievements celebrated today are the result of the effective partnership between AMH, the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme 2014-2020 and the Department for the Economy, and the Southern Health & Social Care Trust, who are thanked for their continued support of our work.”

During the event Renatas Dirse shared his thoughts on his journey so far. He said, “I attended a mix of classes such as IT, gardening and Tai Chi. I enjoyed the routine of going to the classes and they really helped me a lot. I have more trust in myself as I have actually achieved something and have more confidence to apply for jobs.”

AMH New Horizons offer a range of recognised qualifications and provide training, personal development programmes and social and recreational activities. AMH New Horizons offers guidance and support, helping people to overcome the effects of mental ill health and in many cases return to work.

Find out more about AMH New Horizons.

AMH Downpatrick were delighted to receive a visit from Christine Cunningham, Branch Manager, Danske Bank and Joan Fegan, Careers Service, Ballynahinch JBO recently.

They visited the service to enable clients undertaking employability training, as part of the ESF Working it Out project, to experience a job interview. This was a very beneficial experience for the clients involved, with the feedback proving to be particularly useful.