Derry’s Skeoge Hub becomes one-stop shop for community health and support

A vibrant and well-attended ‘Feel Good Friday’ health and wellbeing event took place at Derry's Skeoge Community Hub on Friday morning last, delivered in partnership with Apex Housing Association and the GSAP Peace Plus Project Skeoge United.

The event brought together a wide range of local services and organisations, creating a welcoming space for residents to access support, information, and practical health resources in one place.

Attendees benefited from free health checks delivered by the Bogside & Brandywell Health Forum, while the Autism Experience Bus provided an immersive and educational insight into the lived experience of autism, helping to build awareness and understanding across the community.

A strong network of support services was also present, including Hive Cancer Support, Right Support Right Time, Start360, the Acorn Project, Developing Healthy Communities, The Women’s Centre, Talking to Our Babies, Ethos Family Support, Action for Children, and local advice services. Each organisation offered guidance, signposting, and opportunities for ongoing engagement.

The event highlighted the importance of accessible, community-based health initiatives and demonstrated the strength of partnership working in Skeoge. By bringing services directly to local people in an informal and supportive environment, Feel Good Friday helped reduce barriers to accessing support and encouraged meaningful connections.

READ NEXT: IN PICTURES: ‘Feel Good Friday’ brings community together at Derry's Skeoge Community Hub

The afternoon programme was hosted by In Your Space Circus, who delivered an engaging circus skills workshop open to both adults and children, adding a fun and inclusive element to the day.

Nicola Mullan (Skeoge Hub Coordinator) expressed her appreciation to all participating organisations and community members who contributed to the success of the day adding ‘The positive atmosphere and strong turnout are clear indicators of the community’s commitment to health and wellbeing. We were delighted to see so many take part in what was a very successful day for us here at The Hub.’

Service user and local resident Ciaran Faulkner said he was impressed by the activities available on the day, adding: ‘A great experience for all who turned up today. I was able to avail of the fantastic health checks, enjoyed the social aspect, tea, soup and sandwiches but the visit on the Autism Experience Bus was eye-opening to say the least. It brought home what autism is through the eyes of those who bear it. Again, well done to all the staff here at Skeoge Community Hub. A truly great day!’