Sharon Cregg, Event Organiser; Martin Ryan, HSE Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention; Claire Barr, Cork County Council; Valerie Murphy, Avondhu Blackwater; Niall O’Callaghan, Healthy Ireland; Estelle Varney, Mallow Chamber President and Cllr Tony O’Shea at the launch. Photo: Colm Lougheed

See you at the castle

A mental health and wellbeing event is returning to Mallow this September.

Called Together at the Castle, the event aims to foster a sense of community and raise awareness about the available support services for mental health and wellbeing.

It will feature an extensive array of entertainment, recreational activities, workshops and information spaces, provided by up to 50 local and regional community groups and organisations. From informative sessions to engaging workshops, the event promises something for everyone, emphasising the importance of mental and physical wellbeing across all age groups.

Together at the Castle is now in its third year and various groups are involved in organising the event like HSE Cork Kerry Community Healthcare in partnership with Mallow Chamber of Commerce, Cork County Council, Avondhu Blackwater Partnership, AIB, See Change, Shine, Cork ETB and local gardaí.

Cllr Pat Hayes, deputising for the Mayor of the County of Cork, said: “By combining entertainment, workshops, and informational sessions, Together at the Castle promises to be an uplifting and informative event that highlights the importance of taking care of our mental wellbeing. Let’s shine a light on mental health, break down stigmas and build a community where everyone feels supported.”

Martin Ryan, HSE Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention with Cork Kerry Community Healthcare, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Mallow Chamber of Commerce and Cork County Council to bring this event to the community. Over the last number of years, we have worked collectively to ensure this event offers a practical and positive approach to mental health and wellbeing in the local community.

“It’s important that everyone is aware of the supports available to them in their community and that we can signpost people to relevant services, matching the right service with their need. I would encourage everyone to seek out local events, programmes, trainings, sports clubs and youth services available to you.”

Estelle Varney, President of Mallow Chamber of Commerce expressed her excitement, saying: “Our primary focus is to create awareness and highlight mental health supports, information and education for people from all walks of life. This event, which was initiated by our previous president, Sharon Cregg, has become an established institution that has made great strides in bringing together our local community, and connecting services and people in an accessible way.”

The event will take place on 8 September.