AWARE, the depression charity for Northern Ireland, is looking for volunteers in the Fermanagh area to help run a weekly support group for people with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
At this time, the time and place where the group will meet has not yet been confirmed.
The charity has a network of support groups across the country which are run by a team of trained volunteers. Groups offer people living with mental illness a safe space to come together, meet others with similar experiences, discuss coping strategies, and realize that they are not alone.
No previous experience is required to become a support group facilitator and applicants will undergo comprehensive training provided by the charity.
The role is to facilitate the weekly meeting, provide appropriate information and distribute literature.
Jarlath McCreanor, volunteer support group facilitator in Newry, said: “I joined an AWARE support group in 2010 and was there for four years before becoming a facilitator.
“I found that people there understood my journey with mental illness because they were or had been in the same place as me.
“I quickly found myself opening up, feeling less alone, and that structured my week. From there, I became a group leader.
“I volunteer in three groups a week, and the reason I devote so much time to them is that I believe in them!
“I know first-hand that they work, and it feels so good to be able to make a difference in people’s lives.”
If you are interested in volunteering for AWARE, contact the AWARE Support Services team at [email protected]
The charity is also hosting an exciting color fundraising event at Share Discovery Village in Lisnaskea on Saturday, October 8.
The 5K Fun Run or Walk is the perfect opportunity to have fun with family, friends or colleagues while helping people with mental illness in Northern Ireland.
For more information or to volunteer to help with the color run, go to www.aware-ni.colourrun.
