HSE South West has confirmed that Together at the Castle will return to Mallow Castle on Sunday, September 6, 2026, bringing another major community-focused mental health and wellbeing event to North Cork. Announced via gov.ie-linked public service channels and the Health Service Executive (HSE), the free afternoon gathering is designed to connect people with local supports while creating a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Running from 1pm to 5pm, the event has become a well-known date in the regional wellbeing calendar. Organisers say the 2026 edition will again combine information, community outreach and entertainment, with up to 50 local and regional groups expected to take part.
Together at the Castle returns with HSE and community backing
This year’s event continues the partnership between the Health Service Executive (HSE), Mallow Chamber of Commerce, Cork County Council, Cork Mental Health Foundation, Avondhu Blackwater Partnership, See Change, SHINE and An Garda SÃochána. The collaborative model reflects a broader public service approach often seen across Health, Social Protection, Children/Disability/Equality and Local Government and Heritage initiatives in Ireland.
According to organisers, Together at the Castle is open to everyone and aims to strengthen community connection while raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing services available locally. The programme will feature:
- Family entertainment and live activities
- Children’s recreation and fun experiences
- Workshops and wellbeing-focused sessions
- Information stands from support organisations
- Food and drink options for attendees
That mix of practical support and relaxed community engagement is one reason Together at the Castle has continued to grow in visibility across Cork.
Local leaders highlight mental health support in North Cork
Mayor of the County of Cork, Councillor Bernard Moynihan, said the event showcases the wide range of wellbeing supports available while promoting positive mental health in the region. He also noted the effort made by the working group to ensure there is something for all age groups, including new activities, services and food stalls.
Dr Andy Phillips, Regional Executive Officer of HSE South West, described Together at the Castle as a strong example of collaboration and community spirit. He said the event delivers a positive, energetic day out while also making it easier for people to learn where help is available if they need support.
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Why Together at the Castle matters for community wellbeing
Martin Ryan, HSE South West Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention, said everyone has a role in encouraging people to seek help, even when that first step can be difficult. He added that the 2026 event is looking to broaden the idea of wellbeing so that it is as inclusive as possible.
Mallow Chamber President Joyce Good Hammond said the initiative has become an established part of the local community by making mental health information and education more accessible to people from all walks of life. Cork Mental Health Foundation CEO Brendan McCarthy also said the event is intended to offer a practical, hopeful and positive approach to mental health and recovery.
Avondhu Blackwater Partnership CEO Valerie Murphy noted the organisation’s ongoing work with statutory and voluntary stakeholders across North Cork, particularly through social inclusion supports, and welcomed the chance to continue that collaboration at Mallow Castle.
Together at the Castle also aligns with See Change’s annual Green Ribbon campaign, which runs throughout September and focuses national attention on mental health awareness, stigma reduction and help-seeking.
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What to know before attending
For families, residents and visitors in Cork, Together at the Castle offers a rare combination of public information and an enjoyable day out in a historic setting. Those attending can expect easy access to support organisations, informal conversations around wellbeing and activities suitable for different age groups.
The key takeaway is simple: Together at the Castle is more than an event listing. It is a practical community response to mental health awareness, built through cooperation between the Health Service Executive (HSE), local groups and An Garda SÃochána, and it continues to strengthen access to support in North Cork.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE
