Nationwide interest in community initiative

THE idea behind a Cork community initiative tackling drug and alcohol abuse and promoting good mental health may be rolled out across the country.

The Kinsale Youth Support Service (KYYS), which has just run two days of workshops and talks in the town, has been contacted by community groups all over the country looking to emulate what it is doing. A recent study reported that one in five teenagers had suicidal ideas.

According to secretary of the organisation, Mariel Twomey, the effects of drink, drugs and mental health issues are to be seen in every parish and in many families all over the country: “We wanted to take a proactive stance on this. Prevention is better than cure and the aim is to reach 10,000 households in the area.”

Made up of doctors, teachers, gardaí and business people, along with concerned parents and active members within the community, meetings began in the summer of 2010 looking at the best way to support young people.

Those involved were increasingly concerned about the links between drug and alcohol abuse in the town and mental health problems.

“There are many challenges facing young people in relation to drugs and alcohol and where support in regard to mental health issues could be made available,” Ms Twomey said.