With the festive season knocking on autumn’s door, people are being invited to learn the skills of traditional Christmas wreath-making, in an evening workshop in aid of Action Mental Health. 

The event, hosted by Petals and Prayers Florist Studio of Magherafelt, takes place at the town’s Terrace Hotel, on Friday, November 29, from 7pm to 9.30pm and is being supported AMH corporate partner, SDC Trailers Limited of Toomebridge.

Participants will be provided with all the materials required to craft their wreath, from the base materials to a wide array of decorations to suit all styles and tastes. Crafters can select from greenery and natural items, plus an array of luxury festive additions – even festive lights to illuminate wreaths as the Yuletide nights draw in.

The size of the wreath-making workshop class size will be limited, to allow participants to enjoy the hands-on support and assistance of the instructors who will provide step-by-step demonstrations and an abundance of artistic inspiration.

Whether a novice or a seasoned expert, participants will leave with a wreath to be proud of, and some useful skills to help create the Christmas favourite year after year.

Crafters will be treated to festive refreshments while they work and will also receive an exciting goodie bag to take home along with their handicrafts.

The workshop places are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so book early to avoid disappointment, and come along for a fun and festive evening of creativity. You’ll be helping Action Mental Health support people experiencing periods of mental ill-health and build resilience among future generations.

To book your ticket, priced £30, visit Eventbrite

Halloween celebrations at New Horizons Antrim had clients guessing the weight of a mighty pumpkin for a chance to win a boo-tifully haunted hamper, in day of ghoulish fun and games. Clients got into the spirit of the day, squelching pumpkin through their fingers as they crafted Jack-o-lanterns. A big thank-you to Employment Officer Victoria Henry for organising the spooktacular event!

The AMH New Horizons activities the client participates in are operated through the “Working it Out” project, which is part-funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme 2014-2020, the Department for the Economy and the five NI Health & Social Care Trusts.

A project administrator who has spent 15 years contributing to the success of Action Mental Health has been rewarded for her loyalty to the charity. Liz Wright, who works at New Horizons Antrim, received her long service award from AMH chief executive David Babington.

“As an organisation we are very fortunate to have a talented and highly committed team and this commitment is clearly demonstrated by long-serving employees like Liz,” he said.

“This dedication and loyalty is seen across the organisation and it is vital to providing services to our clients and the wider community in Northern Ireland.”

Action Mental Health were raising awareness among fans at the Belfast Giants game against Manchester Storm on Sunday. Alongside the Odyssey Trust we also produced a short film and commissioned special Belfast Giants warm up jerseys that were worn by the team over the weekend.

Action Mental Health has worked with staff at the Odyssey, including the Belfast Giants and W5 educators, to promote the 5 steps to wellbeing.

Belfast Giants Coach Adam Keefe said, “It is really important for players, staff and fans to look after their mental health and speak out if they have any concerns.”

Wendy Langham, Head of Social Affairs Odyssey Trust said, “Thanks to all the staff at Odyssey for working together to support Action Mental Health to change the lives of those living with mental ill health and promote resilience and well-being to future generations.”

David Babington, Chief Executive of Action Mental Health said, “We are extremely pleased that the Odyssey Trust has chosen to focus on and support mental health and well-being, and thank them for helping us to raise much needed funds and awareness, tackling stigma and promoting positive mental health”.  

Staff and clients from AMH New Horizons Ards were also treated to VIP treatment as special guests at the game on Sunday. Thanks to those who collected for us and manned our information stand!

#TakingActionOnMentalHealth

#theelephantontheice

Action Mental Health’s Promote service for adult with learning disabilities is throwing open its door for a special Open Night.

AMH Promote is a place where clients get a taste of independent living among their peers and where they are encouraged to be socially active in a supportive environment.

Prospective clients and their families will get the chance to get a glimpse into Promote during a special Open Night event on Tuesday, October 22 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, at the service located at 6 Enterprise Road, Bangor.

There will be a welcome talk at 7pm, with the event posing a great opportunity for prospective new clients and their families and carers to come and have a look around the purpose-built centre, chat with staff and clients, and see all that is on offer.

AMH Promote benefits not only the clients, but also impacts their carers who glean confidence that their loved ones are in a place dedicated to providing them the best outlet for their many strengths and talents.

One carer recently went on social media to vocalise her appreciation. “As a mum of a client who attends AMH Promote, I strongly recommend this place for anyone who is looking for something like this in the future. Fabulous! Go and see it for yourself! Such a happy gang.”

AMH Promote gives clients a new focus in life, encouraging them to participate in a host of activities and events from library visits, sports tournaments, horticulture and cookery, to arts and crafts and drama – including regular performances on stage loved by clients, staff, friends and family.

Promote also hosts regular coffee mornings on the last Thursday of the month. The next one takes place on Thursday, October 31, with the final one of 2019 taking place on November 28, when Christmas crafts, shortbread and planting bulbs and other items will be on sale.

For more information visit our website https://www.amh.org.uk/ and our Facebook page

The Department of Health’s proposed 5-year Mental Health Action Plan will come under the spotlight during a special series of consultation workshops.

The Patient and Client Council is hosting the workshops in partnership with Action Mental Health, Inspire and the Department of Health, giving the public the chance to discuss the shape of Northern Ireland’s mental health services.

The workshops, taking place in Belfast, Derry-Londonderry and Dungannon, will offer service users, clients, carers and other stakeholders the opportunity to learn more about how the plan is developing and will give people the chance to have their say on the emerging themes and areas of focus.

The workshops take place on Monday 21st October 2019, from 10am-1pm at

City Hotel, Queen’s Quay, Londonderry, BT48 7AS; on Thursday 24th October 2019, 10am-1pm at The Junction, 12 Beechvalley Way, Dunngannon, BT70 1BS; and on Friday 25th October 2019, from 1pm – 4pm at Inspire Wellbeing, Lombard House, 10-20 Lombard St, Belfast BT1 1QA..