THE Aisling Centre in Enniskillen has welcomed three new charity Trustees to its Board of Directors.

The new appointments – Deirdre Kane, Grainne Scott and Richard Smith – bring with them a wealth of experience and skills in mental health, domestic violence, community engagement, organisational management and much more.

They all share a desire to contribute to the development of community-based counselling and mental health services; are keen to break down the stigma attached to poor mental health; and want to promote the development of good mental health, emotional well-being and resilience building.

A retired social worker, and manager of the Mental Health Recovery Team, Deirdre is very familiar with work of Aisling Centre from a professional viewpoint, and describes herself as having “a great affinity with its goals and its vision”.

Grainne, a former police officer, has a broad range of experience of working in the community, including working with domestic abuse,and as family liaison for people dealing with traumatic and sudden bereavement.

Richard has extensive experience in industry and management, and is currently general manager of Huhtamaki Food Packaging, Lurgan. Richard has a keen interest in mental health, especially eating disorders.

All three have described themselves as both “honoured” and “delighted” to have been appointed to the Board of Aisling Centre.

Speaking on behalf of the Aisling Centre, Chairperson Alison Annan said the appointment of new Trustees is part of the centre's ongoing development to ensure that the centre continues to support the community, which she added is "especially important as we see an increase in mental health needs as we come out of the Covid-19 pandemic".

Alison added: "We are delighted to welcome our three new Trustees to the Board. Teir experience and skills will greatly enhance the organisation as we move forward."

The Aisling Centre is a community-based mental health charity which offers a free, confidential and professional counselling and psychotherapy service with a very user-friendly self-referral process.

To make a referral or to find out further information, see www.theaislingcentre.com, or contact the centre at 0286 632 5811.