Latest News

Newry and Mourne Ethnic Minority Support Centre Launched

People from a wide range of nationalities and backgrounds came together on Thursday evening, 13 September, for the official launch of the Newry and Mourne Ethnic Minority Support Centre.

The Centre provides a broad based advice and support service for migrant workers and other ethnic minority individuals in the Newry and Mourne Area. In particular, the service will provide advice and support for people, in their own language, on issues such as accommodation, education, rights and benefits etc. Whilst based in Newry, the Centre will also provide outreach services to other towns and villages in the area. The Centre programme will also provide opportunities for Ethnic Minority people to network with each other and link in with the wider community.

The Wellbeing Action Partnership developed the Centre project and was fortunate to obtain generous financial support from the Right Honourable The Lord Ballyedmond and the PSNI through their Policing With The Community Fund. Additional support has also been provided through the Challenge of Change project funded by the European Union Peace Programme. Newry and Mourne District Council will manage the Centre on behalf of the Partnership.

Expressing the Council’s support for the project; Mayor of Newry and Mourne, Councillor Michael Cole said “the contribution that migrant workers and other Ethnic Minority people make to the economy and cultural life of the area is very much valued and welcomed”.

Fergal O’Brien, Chair of the Wellbeing Action Partnership said “ the launch of the Centre marks an important step forward in helping migrant workers and other Ethnic Minority people participate fully in life in Newry and Mourne”.

The centre, located at 74 Hill Street, Newry, will be open Tuesday, Thursday 2.00-21.00pm (by appointment) and Monday, Wednesday 9.00–17.00. For further information about the service or an appointment contact Katerina at 028 30252544, email kskrebska@utvinternet.com