The District Electoral Areas of Downpatrick, Rowallane and Slieve Croob, in partnership with the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, organised an informal social connectivity event for carers in Killough Community Centre on Friday 10 June.
The event was organised to mark the end of Carers Week (6-12 June) and provide carers from across the district with an opportunity to take a much-needed break from their caring responsibilities. During the event those that attended were able to reconnect and socialise with others while engaging in the therapeutic crafts of origami, pottery and planting herbs. Carers then enjoyed a delicious lunch supplied by local restaurant, Fired.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage said, “I am delighted that carers have been able to unwind and take a break from their caring duties today. During the COVID-19 pandemic, carers have experienced a marked increase in isolation as vulnerable family members have been required to shield. It is so important to recognise the contribution that they make to their families and the community, and connectivity events like this provide a great opportunity for carers to decompress and engage with others in a social setting.”
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust Carers Development Officer, Pamela Smyth said, “This connectivity event has been a great success and has fully achieved the objective of bringing the adult carers together in an informal setting, to provide them with an opportunity to make new friends and extend their support network.”
