Derry abseil to take the plunge for mental health 

Local charity AWARE NI, a pillar of mental health support in Derry since 1996, recently unveiled its newest fundraising event – a highly anticipated abseil from the top of the picturesque City Hotel Derry set to take place on 9th June 2024. The charity is appealing to individuals and local businesses to enter and raise vital funds to support local individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. 

AWARE NI is a Derry-born charity currently playing a pivotal role in providing compassionate and effective peer-led support groups for those living with mental health challenges. The event symbolises the organisation’s ongoing commitment to challenging mental health stigmas and ensuring no one faces their journey alone.

The launch event, attended by notable guests such as the Mayor of Derry and Strabane, AWARE NI Board Chairman Bernard McAnaney, AWARE NI Trustee Helen McDonnell; and City Hotel Derry Manager Conor Friel, highlighted their shared dedication to mental health advocacy and community support.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue has given the fundraiser her backing and emphasised the importance of community-driven initiatives in promoting mental well-being. "AWARE NI's Abseil showcases our community's strength and unity in supporting mental health awareness.

"Events like these remind us of the compassion and solidarity that define our city. By participating, you are not only conquering heights but also breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of understanding and empathy."

Helen McDonnell, a longstanding supporter and Trustee at AWARE NI is taking part in the abseil event and commented "I am thrilled to take part in the Abseil at the City Hotel and encourage as many people as possible to join me. This fun-filled day promises an adrenaline rush and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, supporting our essential support groups and educational programmes.

"Every pound raised directly contributes to providing critical support to those in need of mental health services across the country."

Conor Friel, Manager of City Hotel Derry and an enthusiastic participant in the abseil event, echoed the sentiment, "I am delighted to support AWARE NI's Abseil Event and to be personally taking part in this exciting initiative. Mental health awareness and support are close to our hearts at City Hotel, and we are proud to be part of such a meaningful cause.”

Participants are asked to pledge to raise a minimum of £100, with funds raised supporting those affected by depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder in Northern Ireland through AWARE NI's services, including its network of mental health Support Groups located across the country.

These groups provide a safe space for attendees to support each other, learn about mental health, and discuss coping strategies. While the groups are free to attend, each session costs AWARE NI approximately £135 a week to deliver, which underscores the importance of fundraising events like the City Hotel Abseil.

AWARE NI’s Derry Support Group meets at their office (2 Crawford Square) every Tuesday at 7.00pm and Thursday at 11.00am, offering invaluable peer support and resources for individuals seeking mental health assistance in their local community.

Visit: aware-ni.org/derry-abseil. for more information and to register for the Abseil on Sunday 9th June.