Action Mental Health’s EVOLVE programme, delivered in partnership with Youth Action, brings together young people aged 18 to 25 to help enhance and develop their confidence, self-esteem and social interaction, through fun activities and accredited training.

EVOLVE’s 2016 programme for young people concluded with a celebration event in AMH New Horizons Antrim. The young people were presented with a photo collage of the activities that they took part in over the last 15 months, a memento of their time on the programme.

John Davis, Service Manager said, “The EVOLVE group of 2016 have stood up to the challenges that were set for them. Each of them have grown in confidence, gained an understanding of their own value and set personal goals to work towards. They have embraced the spirit of the EVOLVE programme.”

Action Mental Health New Horizons Antrim has received a £500 boost thanks to the Asda Foundation’s Chosen by You – Given by Us scheme.

AMH New Horizons, which helps people in Antrim overcome the effects of mental ill-health through a series of health and well-being programmes – as well as providing vocational and employability training – will use the money to purchase musical instruments for its new group music sessions.

“Chosen by You – Given by Us allows shoppers to vote instore for a local organisation to receive a donation”, explained Asda Antrim Community Champion, Barbara Logan. “Our customers love getting involved with the voting as it gives them an opportunity to make a real difference to an organisation, which directly benefits the local community they live in. The work AMH New Horizons does is incredibly important and it’s a real pleasure to be able to give them this donation from the Asda Foundation.”

John Davis, Service Manager, Action Mental Health said, “We are very proud of the work we do in breaking down the stigma associated with mental ill health and remain committed to ensuring that our service users are provided with the best possible support. The donation from the Asda Foundation will enable us to continue this work – in particular our new recreational group music sessions. A big thank you to Asda and Barbara for supporting us and championing the work we do!”

Wilson Nesbitt Solicitors in Bangor have raised £1,500 for Action Mental Health.

The money was raised via a charity competition run with conveyancing clients. Explaining why he chose AMH to receive this donation Gary Adair, Wilson Nesbitt said, “Through my work in mental health law I regularly get to see first-hand the great work carried out by Action Mental Health. I am delighted to be able to make this donation to help Action Mental Health continue their work to improve the quality of life and the employability of people with mental health needs or a learning disability in Northern Ireland.”

Accepting the cheque for £1,500, Callum Clark, Fundraising & Events Officer, AMH said, “We are very appreciative of this donation from Wilson Nesbitt, the money raised will go towards improving the lives of people with mental ill-health across Northern Ireland.”

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.”