‘House of health’ project aims to help ‘deprived’ areas

The programme has been funded by the Department of Social and will apply in the Neighbourhood Renewal areas of both towns.

The Southern Health and Social Care Trust (SHSCT) will be working in partnership with Breakthru, First Steps Women’s Centre (FSWC), Lilac and the Niamh Louise Foundation to deliver a range of health initiatives and lifestyle programmes as part of the neighbourhood renewal plan.

Marian Dorman, Southern Trust Neighbourhood Renewal Health Co-ordinator, explained: “We are delighted that the Coalisland and Dungannon Neighbourhood Renewal areas have received this funding from DSD. It will enable all residents to become more involved in making positive changes to their health and wellbeing, with such diverse and varied programmes of health on offer there’s something for everyone.”

The roll out of programmes has commenced this month, a perfect time for all those who are thinking about improving their health, whether by getting fitter, losing weight, stopping smoking or reducing stress.

The health action plan will include a range of programmes such as:

Holistic health education classes; complimentary therapy sessions for people with long term health conditions; activities provided by Breakthru to address the serious impact that drugs and alcohol are having on health and wellbeing; a comprehensive suicide prevention programme facilitated through the Niamh Louise Foundation.

Meanwhile, the introduction of the ‘men’s shed concept’ in the area to address specific health issues for men, and the establishment of a house of health that will offer a range of options for local people, will also be facilitated.

Francie Molloy, Chair of the Neighbourhood Renewal partnership, said: “The health element of the Neighbourhood Renewal Action Plan will offer a much needed focus on health issues in these areas of social deprivation and isolation.

“We know that the residents living in these areas have poorer health, reduced quality of life and reduced life expectancy than those living in more affluent areas.

“By concentrating on the health programme in areas of need we can support residents to take action to improve their health and quality of life.”
If you would like to receive a copy of the Calendar of Health Events contact Marian Dorman, Southern Trust on Tel: 07787 130 198 or email: [email protected]
You can also view the calendar of Health Events on the SHSCT website www.southerntrust.hscni.net – User & Visitor Information – Health and Wellbeing Programmes: Coalisland and Dungannon.