‘Safe place’ for young and old to meet opens in Greenisland

‘The Well’, a Greenisland Church of Ireland community project, was opened by Councillor Lynn McClurg on Friday evening.

After praising the provision of the newly planted garden, Councillor McClurg said she was “encouraged” to see an initiative starting which aims to provide an accessible and safe place.

The drop-in centre has a meeting room, “quiet room,” office and toilets and is located beside the waiting room at the train station.

It is proposed to run courses across the summer including painting for fun, grow your own vegetables, basic sewing and embroidery classes and computer technology with the emphasis being on early school leavers and young mothers.

Rev Paul Lyons, of Greenisland Church of Ireland, added: “A parent and child group will meet each Tuesday at 10.15am over the summer.

“There is a weekly meeting of Alcoholic Anonymous and it is hoped to start a support programme assisting the families of those who live with alcoholics.

“A Christian Against Poverty trained adviser and addiction counsellor have offered their services to advise families suffering from the effect of debt or drugs and alcohol problems.

“It is hoped that this beautiful use of space will stimulate civic pride and will ensure an even higher commendation for Greenisland in the Best-Kept Train Station Award.”