This week, New Horizons Derriaghy hosted a certificate presentation day to celebrate the individual achievements of over 40 clients during the last 12 months.
The New Horizons division of AMH (which is part-funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme 2014-2020 and the Department for the Economy) provides life changing services to those experiencing mental ill-health by aiding their recovery through employment, volunteering, training, support and advice.
Presenting clients with qualifications ranging from visual merchandising, computer literacy and digital skills, to customer service, and art, Acting Service Manager Eoin McAnuff said:
“It’s an honour to celebrate with clients who through their own hard work, determination and drive, have gained transferable skills that will open up opportunities in terms of their personal and professional development.
“When trying to overcome the often debilitating effects of mental illness, it is important to remember that support from loved ones and services like AMH New Horizons are vital in the recovery process.
“In this instance, not only is it inspirational to see so many people learn new skills for both in and outside the workplace, but to see their mental well-being flourish as well.
“This serves as an example to others who are perhaps experiencing hard times that with the right support and encouragement, anything is achievable.”
David Babington, Chief Executive of AMH added:
“Over the course of the last year we have witnessed how much our clients have grown personally, professionally and emotionally.
“From the 1st April 2015 to now, 165 clients have attended our New Horizons service in Derriaghy, achieving 352 units of accreditation in a range of vocational areas.
“In addition 17 clients have progressed into employment, further education or training, which is a fantastic result.
“It is a sad truth that as many as one in four people in Northern Ireland will experience a mental illness at some point in their lives.
“We at AMH New Horizons therefore connect with organisations to create employment and volunteering opportunities for clients who are recovering from a mental illness and want to re-join the workforce.
“Our long-term vision is to break down the walls of stigmatisation and isolation by encouraging more people to open up and talk about mental illness and integrating individuals back into society.
“We are hugely proud of our clients’ incredible achievements this year and wish them all the best in all their future endeavours.”
If you are unemployed, living with a mental illness and are interested in taking part in the New Horizons Employment Program, contact your Community Mental Health team, Condition Management team or Jobs and Benefits advisor, and ask for a referral to the service.
To take part in New Horizons Employment Program email [email protected] or call 028 90629759.
