Leading mental health charity AWARE NI announces new partnership with Derry GAA

AWARE NI, a leading mental health charity, has announced its new partnership with Derry GAA, launched last Sunday during the SFC Final at Celtic Park.

This collaboration aims to raise awareness and vital funds to support mental health in the local community.

Funds raised through this partnership will be dedicated to the continuation of AWARE's peer-led support groups in the wider Derry area, including Derry, Coleraine, Limavady, and Magherafelt.

With one in five adults in Northern Ireland expected to face a mental health problem at some stage in their life, AWARE is committed to being there for those in need.

By working together with Derry GAA's extensive and dedicated community, this partnership aims to raise mental health awareness and provide vital resources to address this pressing concern.

Derry GAA has pledged to raise £24,000 for AWARE to support the running costs of local mental health support groups. These groups are a lifeline for many people, both individuals and families, facing mental health challenges.

Head of Fundraising for AWARE, Leigh Osborne, said: "Derry GAA should be commended for putting mental health awareness at the top of its priority list. We have already been working closely with the Health and Wellbeing committee to plan our joint strategy for raising awareness and funds within clubs and the wider community. Everyone involved with Derry GAA, from players to coaches, committee members and supporters, will have the opportunity to get involved in AWARE's local fundraising events, such as our Giant Steps walk in April and City Hotel Abseil, as well as plan fundraising events of their own. We are delighted to be working with this beloved local institution. Together, we will achieve great things for local people affected by ill mental health."

"We have seen first-hand how ill mental health can affect people in our own community at all levels, which is why we are proud to be working with AWARE. As a Derry-born charity, we know that the money raised will stay in the local area and benefit our own people, friends, families, and communities. This partnership will no doubt have a significant impact on mental health awareness in Derry," said Geraldine McKay, Chair of Derry GAA Health and Wellbeing Group.

Anyone can get involved in this campaign and make a difference. You can donate £5 by texting DERRYGAA to 70085, or you can get involved with fundraising or volunteering by emailing derrygaa@aware-ni.org.