HSE wellbeing boards are being introduced at GAA clubs across County Leitrim, giving local communities clearer access to mental health information, support services and suicide prevention resources. The initiative brings together HSE West and North West, Mental Health Ireland, Leitrim GAA and Leitrim Sports Partnership.
HSE wellbeing boards to launch at Leitrim GAA event
The boards will be officially launched on 18 October at Páirc Seán Mac Diarmada during half-time at the Intermediate Final. Following the launch, the resources will be rolled out across club grounds throughout the county.
GAA grounds were chosen because they are central meeting places in many communities. By placing practical information in familiar, accessible locations, the project aims to encourage conversations about mental health and help people recognise where support is available.
What information will the boards provide?
The HSE wellbeing boards will list local and national services that can support people experiencing emotional distress or seeking advice about their mental health. They are intended to help individuals, families, volunteers and club members find reliable information without stigma or confusion.
- Mental health and wellbeing guidance
- Information on suicide and self-harm prevention supports
- Details of local and national services
- Signposting for people who may need additional help
Community partnership supports suicide prevention
The initiative reflects the whole-of-society approach outlined in Ireland’s Connecting for Life 2026–2035 strategy. That strategy places collaboration at the centre of efforts to reduce suicide and self-harm, involving communities, public services, voluntary organisations and Government departments.
Donal Gallagher, HSE Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention, welcomed the partnership and said it builds on suicide prevention training delivered online and in person across Leitrim. The collaboration is designed to strengthen how communities respond to local needs.
Mental Health Ireland’s Health & Wellbeing Boards Project has developed over 14 years through partnerships with community groups and GAA clubs. The Leitrim rollout extends that work to every club ground in the county.
A lasting resource for GAA communities
Mental Health Ireland Development Officer Emer McFadden said GAA clubs are well placed to share important wellbeing messages because they are at the heart of many communities. Leitrim GAA Health & Wellbeing Committee Chairperson Bernie Mulligan Dolan also highlighted the shared responsibility to look after one another on and off the pitch.
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What the Leitrim rollout means
The HSE wellbeing boards are not a replacement for professional care, but they can make it easier to find the right pathway to support. Their presence in GAA clubs may also help normalise conversations about mental health and encourage people to seek assistance earlier.
Anyone concerned about their own safety or another person’s immediate safety should contact emergency services or seek urgent professional help. For non-urgent support, the services listed on the boards will provide appropriate signposting.
Conclusion
The rollout of HSE wellbeing boards across Leitrim GAA clubs demonstrates how local partnerships can make mental health information more visible and accessible. The clear takeaway is that communities, clubs and public services all have a role in promoting wellbeing and helping people know where to turn when support is needed.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE
