Never feel alone, there's always someone to natter to...
also.. Fruitfield Jam Factory chimney spared and Armagh pair refused bail after police stop car containing £90,000 of drugs
Welcome to the Armagh I newsletter. This newsletter lands in your inbox every Tuesday and Friday morning with a different slant to our website. Help us to connect with others by sharing this edition. This week we take a look at the issue of social isolation and how groups in the area are helping to combat the problem. If you have received this newsletter in another format outside of a subscription email or been sent it by a friend, you can subscribe here
We’re all getting older - like it or not - it’s one of the few things certain in life. For many getting older has it’s advantages (free bus pass) but for others it’s a frightening concept; living alone, less financial security and a decreasing friendship circle.
Whilst social isolation largely affects our aging population, it does effect everyone on some level. Over the years we have covered several stories on how kindhearted school children have attempted to brighten the days of those most prone to social exclusion.
So as a society how does Armagh Banbridge and Craigavon stack up?
We have a wealth of different facilities available across the borough aimed at getting people together and easing isolation from Men’s sheds to chatty benches and walking groups.
A new concept posed by ABC Councillors is the ‘Chatty Café scheme’ which would see cafés sign up and to the scheme and identify a time that a ‘chatter and natter table’ would be available on a weekly basis with a staff member or volunteer helping to host the table.
Related: Chatty Café proposal to help ease loneliness and social isolation
Social inclusion is crucial for building stronger and more resilient communities. When we create an environment where everyone feels included and valued, we are better able to foster a sense of belonging and connection. This leads to more positive social outcomes such as reduced crime rates, improved mental health outcomes and increased levels of social cohesion.
Did you know: Over 60’s can avail of free swimming at all Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council Leisure Centres
One group tackling social isolation are the ‘Hiking Hens’. The group, led and established by Fidelma and Maria, meets every Wednesday and Sunday, where they hike various routes and mountains in the Mournes – and a lot of fun is had. Listen to their story below.
A number of months ago, Armagh I’s Scott Mann visited the Men’s Shed at Annaghmore. The group are seeking to give men ‘distraction’ from life’s worries and the camaraderie is second to none, with friendships striking up and those involved actively chatting and planning outside of shed hours.
Related: New Men’s Shed at Annaghmore seeking to give men ‘distraction’ from life’s worries
Social inclusion is an essential component of building a fairer and more equitable society. It benefits individuals, communities, and society as a whole by ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources, promoting social cohesion, tackling social issues, and upholding human rights. By working towards greater social inclusion, we can create a brighter and more prosperous future for all.
If you are a person in need of help or advise there are many organisations and groups which can help…
Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, Men’s Shed - Find your nearest shed here, Nit & Natters Community, Hiking Hens, Cruse Bereavement Support
Headlines
Iconic Fruitfield Jam Factory chimney to remain, says owner
Armagh pair refused bail after police stop car containing £90,000 of drugs
Convicted Armagh sex offender who changed name back in court
Palace Stables restaurant back up for rent five years after shock closure of Moody Boar
Lone female stalked around Craigavon Lakes shares terrifying ordeal to warn other women
Man to appear in court over serious assault in Lurgan
New pharmacy, gym and physio practise plans in major Newry investment
Armagh’s Willie Nugent looks back on 50 golden years of fundraising
Bluestone Unit helping rekindle ‘hope and purpose’ for most vulnerable
Armagh man ‘swerved severely’ driving home from charity night three times legal limit
Seeking Co Armagh’s Robinson Crusoe – does he have any descendants?
Armagh Jobs
Two new roles listed this week with Armagh Jobs are Commercial Account Handler and Trainee Commercial Account Handler
ASEE are currently recruiting for an experienced Marketing Manager to join their expanding team based near Newry.
R. Thompson and Son Ltd, Farmlay Eggs require a General Factory Operative to work as a team member within various areas of their egg packing factory.
Linwoods currently have an exciting opportunity within the company for a Key Operative. This post is full time and permanent.
Past issues
Have you been berry curious about the fate of Fruitfield Jam Factory?
