‘Together at the Castle’ returning to Mallow

Stef McSherry of Kinderama (front) and the Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Frank O'Flynn with representatives from Avondhu Blackwater Partnership, Jigsaw Cork (Youth Mental Health Support) and Cloyne Diocesan Youth Services at the launch of the ‘Together at the Castle’ mental health and wellbeing event. (Pic: Brian Lougheed)

‘Together at the Castle’, a mental health and wellbeing focused event, returns to Mallow Castle on Sunday, September 10 from 1pm until 5pm.

Announced by Cork Kerry Community Healthcare (CKCH), the hugely successful, free community event sees CKCH continue its partnership with Mallow Chamber of Commerce, Cork County Council, Avondhu Blackwater Partnership, AIB, See Change and SHINE.

The event will feature an array of entertainment, recreational activities, workshops and informational spaces provided by up to 50 local community groups and organisations, aiming to foster a sense of community and raise awareness about the support services available for mental health and wellbeing.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Frank O’Flynn, extended the council’s thanks to CKCH and Mallow Chamber for partnering with the council to bring the event to North Cork.

“Cork County Council is proud to support this important event which highlights the diverse range of wellbeing supports that are available and promotes positive mental health.

“In addition to providing vital information on services, the event will unite the community for a day of entertainment and fun in the magnificent setting of Mallow Castle. Let us come together to recognise the importance of everyone’s mental and physical wellbeing. By removing the stigma around mental health through initiatives such as the Green Ribbon campaign, we can create an environment where individuals feel safe and supported to seek help,” Mayor O’Flynn said.

POSITIVE APPROACH

Valerie Murphy, CEO of Avondhu Blackwater Partnership said she was ‘delighted’ to be involved this year. 

“We in Avondhu Blackwater Partnership work closely with all stakeholders, statutory and voluntary, in promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. We work with many people throughout the North Cork region and provide support through our Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme. We look forward to continuing this collaboration in Mallow Castle in September,” she said.

According to Martin Ryan, HSE Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention with Cork Kerry Community Healthcare, said that over the past few months, they have worked collectively to ensure that the event offers a practical and positive approach to mental health and wellbeing in the local community.

“With the participation of up to 50 services, attendees will find something useful to engage with or gain insight into seeking help. Our goal is to promote hope and recovery within our communities and remind people of the immense benefits of maintaining physical and mental wellbeing. Numerous supports are available to help us achieve that goal,” he said.