Category: Uncategorized

“The thought of helping someone everyday, there’s no better feeling than that”

Working as a social worker is something Niamh Quinn always wanted to do. Now, just over a decade later, she is finally on the road to reaching her goals.

The 32-year-old from Clonoe, County Tyrone, always had a deep interest in social work. Growing up as the youngest of her siblings, Niamh always felt drawn to playing with her young neighbours or babysitting her sister’s children.

Through doing this she often heard people tell her how she was a natural with children, so it was an easy choice when she had to pick courses for her UCAS application.

The first-year social work student said: “I always knew I wanted to work with children. I don’t know why but everybody always said to me that I was really good with them. So, when I was doing my UCAS I applied for primary school teaching, I also applied for Social Work at that time. I got as far as the interview stage for social work, but I didn’t get in.”

After receiving a rejection from the social work course, Niamh went on to do a primary school teaching course, but dropped out after a year and a half as it wasn’t what she wanted to do.

“It was a conscious decision to apply for teaching too” she explained, adding: “Working with children was the only avenue I really wanted to go down, I didn’t really want to teach, but I like working with children. So, I went down that path.

“I only completed a year and a half, I just knew it wasn’t for me.”

Niamh didn’t stop here, she continued on her path to working with children, knowing it was something she was meant to do.

“After I left teaching I went to tech and got my level three childcare, then I went straight into a job in a creche and stayed there for six years” she said.

However, still not where she wanted to be and looking to the future, Niamh decided it was time to try something completely different.

She said: “I decided I needed a bit of office background so I went into a solicitors. I’m still working there two days a week, on the side of my social work studies, as a secretary.

“The solicitor’s two main things that they deal with are family and criminal so they deal with social workers all of the time. It’s interesting because I’m seeing it from the other side now too.”

Working closely with social workers, families and solicitors made Niamh realise it was time to finally get back on her original path and complete her social work studies.

Speaking about why she is so passionate about social care work, she said: “Just the thought of helping people. It would be such a great feeling to just come home every day and think you’ve helped somebody. I’m quite a positive person so to bring that to somebody else’s family, there is no better feeling.”

With her experience working in the solicitor’s, Niamh knows she could go down many different routes of social work, something that she feels isn’t widely known.

“I actually didn’t even realise the breadth of opportunities within social work. There’s so many avenues that someone could go down. Obviously, there are so many children that need help, so that’s a big one, but there really are so many choices.

“There’s definitely a big misunderstanding when it comes to the role of the job.  A lot of people just hear the job title and assume you’re there to take their children and that’s just not the way it is at all. The social worker is there to help you, they are not against you.”

Now she’s finally pursuing her dream, Niamh said understanding exactly what the social work course entailed is important for anyone thinking about applying.

She explained: “I was prepared for the work, but I wasn’t as prepared as I thought I would be. The written side of things is quite intense, but I just love the learning.

“The classes are brilliant. In South West College, all of the tutors are social workers so we’re being taught by people with first-hand experience.”

Although the coursework can be full on, Niamh is confident it will all be worth it when she reaches her end goal. Looking back, Niamh is thankful that she didn’t get on the course the first time around.

“I think at that stage, I probably wasn’t actually ready for it. I feel like I was too immature and young at that time. I’m kind of glad now that I didn’t get in at that point of my life. Of course, I was really disappointed, but I’m glad that I went and got some experience behind me” she said.

One warning Niamh has for anyone who is applying for the course, is to be prepared for the emotional side of things.

“You have to be prepared to take time out for yourself” she said.

“Don’t be afraid to take 20 minutes, if you need to. There’s been a few times on the course where I have had to step out of the room, but that is okay.”

Speaking about the application process, Niamh advises: “Take your time. Don’t rush filling it out. For my personal statement, I also spoke to a mum of one of the children I worked with to get her thoughts. So, if you can, also get perspectives from other people. Make sure you also include examples of how you have helped someone. Just make it as personal as possible.”

The main message that Niamh wants to get across, is that it is never too late to go for it. Having taken just over a decade to get to where she is now, Niamh knows that every choice she made work wise were all conscious decisions, connected to where she wanted to be.

“I just want everyone to know that it is never too late” she said.

Feeling inspired? For more information on how you can train to be a social worker in Northern Ireland check out our Interested in becoming a social worker? page.

 

12 partner charities, Pieta and Electric Ireland are joined by Sunrise Social founder Caroline McKenna to launch Darkness into Light 2024

Organised walks to take place at 15 locations across Northern Ireland as the sun rises on Saturday, 11^th May.

Darkness Into Light, Pieta’s annual fundraising event which raises vital funds for local mental health partner charities, is back. Proudly supported by Electric Ireland, this year’s event will take place as the sun rises on Saturday, 11^th May and will see thousands of participants take part in the 15 official walks across Northern Ireland.

At last night’s launch in Belfast City Centre [Tuesday, 26 March], Pieta and Electric Ireland were joined by representatives from 12 local mental health charities and Darkness Into Light 2024 ambassador Caroline McKenna, to invite people across Northern Ireland to sign up and take part in this year’s fundraising event.

Speaking at the launch, DIL 2024 ambassador and founder of Sunrise Social Caroline McKenna, said, “I am honoured to be an ambassador for Darkness Into Light. It is an event I have supported for many years, and I am honoured to have come on board this year in a more official capacity. Darkness Into Light is a truly special event. Beginning in darkness and continuing through to dawn, the 5km walk symbolises the journey from despair to hope. It is an opportunity for communities to come together, foster the sense of hope and raise crucial funds to support people in the community who need it most. So please, sign up and join us for the most important sunrise of the year and see the difference your support makes to local communities across Northern Ireland.”

In the past decade, Darkness Into Light has raised over £1 million for Northern Ireland partner charities and Pieta to help with issues of suicide, self-harm, and mental health.

This year, people in every county in Northern Ireland are encouraged to sign up to participate in one of 15 organised walks, or to take part in their own way, and in doing so support the charities in their local area that are providing vital services to those in need.

Stephanie Manahan, CEO, Pieta, said, “Darkness Into Light is not just an event; it is a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a future where every individual feels supported and valued. Together, with Electric Ireland’s support and the collective efforts of our participants, volunteer committees and communities across the Island of Ireland, we can continue to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and provide support to those in crisis.

Bill Coyle, NI Residential Manager, Electric Ireland, commented, “Electric Ireland is very proud of our ongoing support for Pieta and Darkness Into Light over the last twelve years of our partnership. Each year, we work with Pieta to create marketing and fundraising campaigns to promote awareness of this incredible event and encourage as many people as possible to participate and support. The power of Darkness Into Light is in its ability to bring hope and consolation to communities across the country and to raise much needed funds for the vital services provided by Pieta and partner charities in Northern Ireland. This movement reflects our values as an organisation and our determination to make the world brighter for our customers, staff and the communities we serve.”

The 12 partner charities across Northern Ireland provide easily accessible, free of charge services, which are available online, by phone or in person. Darkness Into Light plays a crucial role in enabling Pieta’s partner charities in Northern Ireland to uphold their commitment to providing suicide prevention, intervention, and bereavement support services to individuals of all ages throughout Northern Ireland, ensuring that help is always within reach when it’s needed most.

Sign up today at www.darknessintolight.com

 

#DIL2024

Renowned Irish comedian, Conal Gallen, is back on tour this year with his hilarious one-man stand-up show. Conal is well known for his hilarious humour and has been entertaining audiences worldwide for over 30 years.

He’s even had the pleasure of performing in front of the Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, and several other well-known English pubs!

Don’t miss your chance to see the master of comedy at work as Conal Gallen brings his Funny Business to the stage this year. Book your seats now to secure your place at a night filled with unforgettable laughter.

Conal Gallen will be on stage at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre on Friday 5^th and Saturday 6^th April at 8p. Tickets are priced at £25

Tickets for all shows can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

 

 

Discover NI’s giant guide to heart racing activities in Northern Ireland

Adventure seeking families looking for unique experiences to get hearts racing are discovering the world class, adrenaline inducing activities on offer in Northern Ireland.

Action-pack adventures no longer require us to travel abroad, there are plenty of thrills and spills to be had, right here, on our doorstep.

In Northern Ireland, you’re always just a small step from a giant adventure and Discover NI has put together the following list of amazing activities that will ensure you scream if you want to go faster.

Aerosports Paragliding, County Antrim

• If you dream of flying high and defying gravity then take to the skies of Ballynure in a tandem paraglide at Aerosports Paragliding. Suitable for those aged 14+, strap into a harness attached to a parachute like wing and run off the side of a hill. Travelling at speeds of approximately 20mph, all flights take place under the supervision of Chief Flying Instructor Ken McConnell who has thousands of hours of paragliding experience.

Tollymore National Outdoor Centre, County Down

• As Northern Ireland’s National Centre for Mountaineering and Canoeing Activities, Tullymore National Outdoor Centre offers thrill seekers a range of courses in mountaineering, rock climbing, paddlesports and mountain biking. The centre is also home to the Hotrock climbing wall and a bouldering area with routes suitable for beginners, and others that are sure to challenge ever the most experienced climbers.

Share Discovery Village, County Fermanagh

• An inclusive facility, Share Discovery Village allows all to participate in a wide range of exciting outdoor activities including canoeing, banana boating, mountain biking and windsurfing. You can also test your aim with outdoor laser-tag, see how high you can climb with a 30ft indoor climbing wall and make a splash as you traverse the rock slide and wiggle bridge at Wibit Water Park.

Todds Leap, County Tyrone

• Days at Todds Leap are all about adrenaline filled activities. Experience momentary weightlessness as you swing from a trembling height over a cliff edge, scream as you reach speeds of 40mph as your hurtle down the 150m long Tayto ‘BigYella’ slide and strengthen your family bond as you take turns driving a Land Rover Defender blindfolded while the rest of your family help you navigate the off-road obstacle course.

Limitless Adventure Centre, County Londonderry

• Adrenaline junkines will love the thrilling experiences on offer at Limitless Adventure Centre. At Northern Ireland’s only hovercrafting adventure centre, you’ll pilot a hovercraft travelling at speeds in excess of 30mph across purpose built grass tracks. Then, take control of a Powerturn Buggy and effortlessly break out the wheelies, 360 degree turns and more as you – and your co-pilot – battle to control this ATV.

Craigavon Golf & Ski, County Armagh

• Challenge your limits as you ski and snowboard on a 300ft slope at Craigavon Golf and Ski Centre. Home to the only artifical ski slope in Northern Ireland, the centre also features a Poma tow lift, nursery slope and snow-tubing facilities. Suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers/snowboarders, there is also an 18 hole par 72 golf course, a 15 hole par three golf course and a 18 hole par three footgolf course on site.

For more thrilling experiences in Northern Ireland visit https://discovernorthernireland.com

Flowerfield Arts Centre and Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre have a fantastic programme of workshops and events for the whole family this Easter. From creative workshops for adults and kids, to intimate live music and incredible art exhibitions, there is plenty on offer.

Currently on show at Flowerfield Arts Centre, First They Ignore You is an exhibition by Shiela Chakravarti, a socially engaged photographer, educator and activist.

Curated by Belfast Exposed, it centres around her own experiences of racism in Northern Ireland. Admission is free and it runs until 20 April.

Also at Flowerfield, designer Natasha Duddy will be hosting a glass painting workshop on 27 March for parents with children under the age of one. This series of creative workshops is specifically designed for new parents with immobile infants, allowing them to tap into their creativity, relax, and practice mindfulness.

Young artists will love getting creative at Flowerfield Arts Centre with Crafty Kids Nature Monoprinting on 23 March and Weekend Wonders Easter-themed sessions led by Linda Mullholland on 23 and 30 March. Over at Roe Valley Arts Centre Easter Art Club on 30 March, Sarah Barfoot will work with children aged between five and seven years, making mini easter gardens, while Christina Smyth will be making wooden Easter Bunnies for children aged between eight and 11.

On Saturday 23 March, Nodlaig Ní Bhrollaigh and guest musicians will perform at Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre to mark the launch of Nodlaig’s second solo album, Cuimhní rúnda. This compilation of original works aims to enhance our understanding of place and heritage. Nodlaig will be joined by talented musicians from across the North West – Martin O’Kane on fiddle, Paul Gillespie on cello and Uilleann pipes, Lasairfhíona Nic Ruairí on the Fiddle and whistles, Carra Nic an Bhaird on Harp and Gerard McChrystal on Saxophone. Tickets are £15 (£12 concession).

Further Info:

For further information on opening hours, or to book workshops or events, visit flowerfield.org or roevalleyarts.co.uk.  Save Your Seat | SAT 23 MARCH

A special evening of music, song and words, inspired in part by the Belfast Harpers’ Assembly of 1792, will take place at the Ulster Hall on Saturday 13 April to mark the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy’s year in office.

Croí na Cathrach – Heart of the City – will see many of the city’s emerging and traditional musicians coming together to perform a selection of pieces, reflecting Belfast’s rich and diverse shared heritage. 

A limited number of tickets for the free event are available from ulsterhall.co.uk  on a first-come, first-served basis (maximum of two per person).

Curated by renowned composer Neil Martin and presented by acclaimed broadcaster Lynette Fay, the show will open with a piece, led by Neil Martin, which evokes the spirit of the Belfast Harpers’ Assembly, while Oscar-nominated actor Stephen Rea will perform a selection of readings throughout the evening.

There will be a collaboration between Glengormley School of Traditional Music and Ards Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, members of Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band will perform solo pipe pieces and there will also be two special renditions from the 1st Old Boys’ Brass Band.

There will also be a unique performance of Slumdog Millionaire favourite Jai Ho from Mukesh Sharma and ArtsEkta, along with contributions from singers Gráinne Holland and Maurice Leyden.

TG4 Gradam Ceoil Bursary recipients Catriona Gribben, Ciara McGuire and Brendan Kerr will showcase their skills, before a special finale featuring soprano Petra Wells and her take on the classic Ae Fond Kiss, followed by an ensemble rendition of The Minstrel Boy.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “In what is a very special year for Belfast, I wanted to do my part to show how music, and culture in general, can be used positively to bring communities together and celebrate the ties that bind us.

“The Belfast Harpers’ Assembly was a fantastic opportunity back in 1792 not just for musicians to show off their skills, but also for Belfast to invite people here – to our city – to experience the amazing talent we have here.

“My hope is that my Croí na Cathrach – Heart of the City – event will do the same, celebrating our wealth of musical talent and showing how music can unite us in what promises to be a really fun and enjoyable evening for everyone who attends.”

To book tickets for Croí na Cathrach – Heart of the City – visit ulsterhall.co.uk from 9am on Friday 22 March.

Spring Fest is returning to Malone House and Barnett Demesne on Saturday 27 April and Sunday 28 April.

Organised by Belfast City Council, there’s a lot to see and do at this top free seasonal event.

Take a walk around the Spring Flower Show and view hundreds of prize blooms on display.

Enjoy live music and entertainment and a range of crafts and food stalls. There’ll be spring wreath-making, sunflower seed planting and foraging workshops to take part in.

Families can also bring their little ones to see the farmyard animals, enjoy a fairground or safari train ride as well as face-painting, a climbing wall and more.

The event will run from 1.30pm to 5.30pm on both days.

Launching the event at Barnett Demesne, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “Spring Fest is always a wonderful outdoor family event in our parks to mark the season of spring – bringing thousands of people, of all ages, through the gates.

“I’m delighted it will be returning here in just a month’s time and hope everyone can get along to enjoy what’s on offer over the two days – and the best thing is that it’s a free event!”

There will be no parking on site during the event, but a free park and ride service will operate from nearby Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park. The first bus to leave Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is at 1pm and the last bus to leave Barnett Demesne is at 5.45pm.

You can also take the Translink service bus from Donegall Square East in the city centre every 10 minutes on Saturday (Metro Bus 8A or 8B) and on Sunday every 30 minutes (Metro 8A). Check Translink website for more information at www.translink.co.uk

Dogs will not be permitted into the event area, with the exception of assistance dogs.  

Further information about the event is available on our website at www.belfastcity.gov.uk/events

Nutrition expert Sandra Miskimmin has revealed women should be treating their hormones as a superpower rather than as a taboo subject.

For many discussions about hormones become hushed conversations with lots of embarrassing whispers and confusion.

But Sandra, owner of SMASH Worldwide, a health and nutrition company which supports women through hormonal changes, believes by opening up the conversation about all hormones, it can open up a new way of life for women of any age.

Sandra is one of the speakers lined up to appear at the Mums At Work Elevate Your Business conference on Monday March 25.

Her talk, titled ‘Hormone Harmony to Maximise your Personal and Professional Goals’ will empower women to embrace their hormones rather than fear them. 

She explained: “It will help women to understand how each of the hormones respond in their body and more importantly, how to use their hormones to their advantage. 

“When women work with their hormones, rather than against them, it opens up a whole new world of opportunity. When this happens, women will become more successful in their personal, physical, and professional life.”

Speaking up and speaking out about hormone health is something Sandra is very passionate about.

“Women go through three major “Ps” when it comes to hormones. Puberty, pregnancy and perimenopause” said Sandra, adding: “Quite often we go through each phase confused and afraid to ask questions. 

“Teenagers, and even women, don’t seem to be able to talk about something that is so natural in our lives. We talk about the curse of having a monthly cycle and just get on with life as though it is something that we have to endure.

“Many women suffer through each of these phases and accept it as normal, but if you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms in your body, it is a sign that you are not working in conjunction with your hormones, and your body is trying to signal this to you. 

“We should be able to breeze through each day, week, month and year, but nowadays, that tends not to happen.”

Sandra believes that by encouraging women to change their view as a society about their monthly cycles and the other hormones in their bodies they can start to live a lifestyle that supports their hormones and help them put the pieces of their health jigsaw together.

She said: “Not only will you feel amazing, but you will also become more productive, suffer less, know what foods to eat at what time of the month, know what kind of exercise to do each week and work towards your strengths.”

If you’re suffering from hormone imbalances here are Sandra’s top tips for helping to bring them back into balance:

1. Food

“One of the most important pieces of your health jigsaw is the food that you eat,” said Sandra.

“Aim to eat a minimally processed diet, full of lots of variety. Focus on healthy sources of protein – either animal or plant based, healthy fats and nature’s carbs.  

“The closer you can get to the creation of your meals the better. By cooking for yourself you will be aware of the quality of the ingredients that you are eating and be able to control them better. 

“This will ensure that your leptin (feel full) hormone and ghrelin (hunger hormone) are kept under control.”

2. Sugar

Sandra said it’s important to keep your blood sugars as balanced as possible. No one wants to be on a blood sugar rollercoaster. 

She added: “When on the blood sugar rollercoaster, not only can it lead to weight gain but it can also lead to inflammation in the body, cravings and energy fluctuations. 

“By keeping your blood sugars balanced, you will be keeping your insulin levels under control.”

3. Stress

“As busy women in today’s society, it can be hard to control stress levels” explained Sandra, adding: “However, by taking 10 minutes to yourself each day you can have a major positive impact on your cortisol levels. 

“When cortisol is raised in the body, sleep is disrupted, belly fat is stored and we are continually in fight or flight mode. 

“10 minutes of self care each day will help to lower your cortisol levels and bring your body back to calm again.”

4. Sleep

According to Sandra, having a good sleep hygiene routine is key to keeping your hormones balanced.  

She said: “By switching off from screens at least one hour before bed, not eating three hours before bed and sleeping in a cool room, you will have a much better night’s sleep. 

“This will enable your body to get into the rest and repair phase as you sleep and this will help to keep your ghrelin hormone under control. 

“If you’re not sleeping properly you are more likely to eat an extra 300 calories of food the day after – these foods tend to be high carb foods, which then can trigger more cravings.”

5. Gut Health

“By eating a wide variety of plant based foods each week – aim for 30 – you will be providing the perfect microbiome for great gut health” said Sandra. 

“90-95% of your serotonin (feel good hormone) is made in the gut. If the gut is not healthy, this can then have an impact on your mental health.”

6. Hydration

Keep it simple says Sandra: “Drink more water to help with your hormones and brain health. A two per cent reduction in hydration has been shown to have an impact on cognitive function.”

7. Toxins

“Reduce your toxin exposure to help balance your hormones. Become aware of the potential endocrine disruptors that are in products that you are using” said Sandra.

“Change from using plastic water bottles and containers to using metal or glass containers. Use the Think Dirty App to check the toxicity of the beauty products that you are using and then swap for cleaner versions.”

8. Exercise

Sandra says it’s time to tune in to where you are in your monthly cycle so ensure that you are working out in conjunction with your cycle rather than against it.  

She explained: “There are times of the month that you can ramp up your training and go for personal bests and there are times of the month when you need to take things easier.  

“By over exercising and not working with your cycle you risk increasing your cortisol levels and injury.”

Sandra will be revealing more tips for hormone help during her talk at the Mums At Work Elevate Your Business conference on Monday March 25.

For more information, to book a ticket or a stand go to >> bit.ly/MAWelevatePress or search for the event on Eventbrite.

Find out more about SMASH Worldwide at smashworldwide.com 

In the ever-evolving world of beauty and skincare, early habits set the stage for lifelong radiance and health. 

Navigating through the myriad of skincare advice, however, can feel like an overwhelming task, especially for those under the age of 25, standing on the cusp of change. 

This pivotal age marks a transition from the carefree routines of our teenage years, often characterised by minimal, if not simplistic, skincare approaches, to a more conscious and informed regimen that addresses the onset of adult skin concerns such as sun damage, age spots, and fine lines.

Belfast beauty expert Lynsey Bennett of Lusso Tan, who will be speaking at the Mums At Work Elevate Your Business conference on Monday March 25, believes the foundation of good skincare is not just about the products we use but understanding how they interact with our skin. 

She explained: “Our 20s are a critical time for establishing skincare routines that not only prevent premature ageing but also enhance our natural beauty.

“This philosophy extends beyond skincare into the realm of tanning, where the quality of one’s skin can significantly impact the outcome of tanning products, leading to either a flawless golden glow or a patchy tan that falls short of expectations.”

Having a good skincare routine is vital to perfecting your tanning routine.

Here are Lynsey’s top three tips for unlocking radiant skin before you’re 25:

1. Exfoliation: The First Step to a Flawless Glow

“Nothing works without exfoliation” explained Lynsey.

“The journey to luminous skin and a seamless tan begins with the removal of dead skin cells.

“Exfoliation is paramount. It’s about creating the perfect canvas for both skincare and tanning products by removing the barrier of dead cells that dull our complexion and obstruct product absorption.

“This crucial step ensures that your skin not only benefits fully from your skincare routine but also achieves that even, smooth tanned look we all desire.”

2. The Magic of Hyaluronic Acid

“Hyaluronic acid is a hydration powerhouse” said Lynsey, adding: “Hyaluronic acid has become a buzzword for hydration, but its effectiveness is dependent on the presence of moisture. 

“To truly tap into the moisturising power of hyaluronic acid, apply it to damp skin and follow up with a mist to lock in the hydration.

“This technique ensures that hyaluronic acid can draw moisture from the environment and deeper layers of the skin, leading to a plumped, smooth surface that’s ideal for tanning.”

3. The Shield of SPF

“SPF is your skin’s best defence” said Lynsey.

“Up to 90% of skin ageing is within your control and directly linked to sun exposure.

“Incorporating SPF into your daily routine is not just about preventing ageing; it’s a critical measure against skin cancer. 

“Choosing sunless tanning as a safe alternative to sunbathing is a testament to loving your skin and prioritising its health over temporary aesthetics.”

Lynsey Bennett has built a successful brand in the competitive beauty market. Her accomplishments with Lusso Tan and her advocacy for women in business have established her as a respected figure in both the beauty and business communities. 

 

At the Mums At Work Elevate Your Business conference on Monday March 25, her talk, titled ‘How to keep going when nothing is going right’ will offer practical strategies for maintaining resilience and determination in the face of adversity. 

Drawing from her own experiences, Lynsey aims to equip attendees with the tools and mindset needed to navigate life’s challenges and emerge stronger.

For more information, to book a ticket or a stand at the Elevate Your Business event on March 25th go to >> bit.ly/MAWelevatePress or search for the event on Eventbrite.

Find out more about Lusso Tan at lussotan.com