County Down Rural Community Network recently launched a pilot project involving the compilation and delivery of well-being packs to senior citizens and families with young children currently isolating due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, primarily in the South Eastern Trust area.
Packs contained a number of items that contributed to the “Take5” approach to looking after your mental and physical health while staying home.
Funding from Ards & North Down Council, Newry, Mourne and Down Council, DAERA, SPRING, Big Lottery, Public Health Agency, Department of Communities and The South Eastern Health & Social Care Trust allowed CDRCN to produce over 600 Wellbeing Packs. Funding also provided packs to support CDRCN Social Prescribing and Pain Management clients and to Multi-Disciplinary Teams within the local GP practices. 120 specialised packs were delivered to 55 families through Downpatrick Autism Family Support Group and 100 craft packs to Down Homestart so that they could provide additional support to children and families struggling with social distancing and isolation at this time.
Nicholas McCrickard, manager of County Down Rural Community Network said “We are living in very uncertain times and community groups, sports clubs and churches have stepped up to the plate. They are bringing food and supplies to people who are genuinely nervous about the future. These packs are another way of reminding people that they are not alone. Neighbours, families and friends are looking out for each other but each of us must remember to think about our own mental and physical health. If you are in any way worried or need help, talk to someone. CDRCN is just one of a number of sources of support – ring us on 028 4461 2311 or email us at info@countydownrcn.com to find out more.”
