08/05/2006
Archived item. This item is published here for historical reasons. The information below may be out of date.
Mayor Therese Ridge will officially Launch the North Clondalkin Community Action on Suicide (CAS) Mental Health Awareness week from Monday 8th- Friday 12th May, 2006
In Collinstown Park Community College at 7.30 on Monday 8th May at 7.30pm.
CAS was formed in 2005 in response to the perceived rise in suicides in the North Clondalkin area, and the general concern around mental health issues, particularly that of young men.
The group was formed to address the issue of suicide using a community development approach. Membership includes local residents and representatives from a large number of community & local development groups and statutory agencies.
North Clondalkin is an area of high social disadvantage. Research demonstrates a strong link between social deprivation and suicidal behaviour, and this is very evident in the North Clondalkin area.
CAS’s activities to date have been targeted at youth (via schools and youth clubs), community groups and local agencies and people living in the community who have been affected by suicide.
From the 8th-12th May CAS are holding a positive mental health awareness campaign in the North Clondalkin area. This campaign will allow us to reach and involve many target groups and in particular vulnerable youths.
A brochure with full details of activities will be distributed to all homes in the community.
For a copy of this brochure or further information on any of these activities please contact:
John Dunphy (Rowlagh Parish)-6263920
Paul Monaghan (Neilstown Parish) - 4573546
Maeve O Sullivan (RAPID Programme) - 4149000 ext 4713
Debbie Scales (Clondalkin Partnership)-4577308
The campaign is being supported by all members of the CAS group, with financial support provided by the ESB, the HSE and the North Clondalkin RAPID Programme.
Activities will include:
Launching the campaign – the campaign will be launched by Bernard Dunne (Irish International boxer), a representative from the Department of Health and Therese Ridge, the Mayor of South Dublin County. A new Counselling & Support Service to be provided by CONSOLE will also be initiated for the North Clondalkin area.
“Smashing Times” theatre group who specialise in mental health and suicide issues will facilitate workshops followed by plays on the theme of mental health and suicide in various locations in the community. 3 workshops and plays will take place. One in St. Kevin’s School, one in Collinstown Park School and the third in Cumas/St.Peter the Apostle Church.
Suicide and Self Harm– WHY?- A suicide awareness talk: This talk will explore issues around suicide such as signs of suicidal behaviour and support available to individuals and families.
De-stress Fair in the Quarryvale Community and Leisure Centre.
This fair will give local residents the opportunity to avail of various health activities free of charge, such as massage, reflexology, relaxation, pampering sessions and healthy eating for the mind. There will be a number of stands on the day giving information on how to stay well and healthy and where to get help and support if needed
“Enjoy Living” walk: This walk will start at two points- Ronanstown Youth Service and Letts corner. Both groups will meet up in Collinstown Park where balloons will be released as a symbol of life
Memorial Service: A multi-denominational memorial service for those who have died through suicide and supporting those bereaved through suicide will take place in Rowlagh church.
Throughout the week positive messages about mental health will be displayed in the community.