Midleton mental health charity appeals to Cork County Council for permanent premises

Midleton Hub says demand is growing for affordable counselling and support, but its rented premises are limiting its ability to expand

The Midleton Hub not only helps people with mental health and addiction issues in the East Cork region but also has clients from across the county. Picture: Larry Cummins

A mental health charity has appealed to Cork County Council to help it find a permanent premises so it can expand its already stretched services.

The Midleton Hub not only helps people with mental health and addiction issues in the East Cork region but also has clients from across the county.

Eileen Kelly, who chairs the organisation, said it was established a few years ago with a simple aim – to ensure that nobody is denied access to mental health support because of cost.

From small beginnings, it has grown. Today, it has 14 qualified practitioners providing counselling, psychotherapy, relationship support, art therapy and specialised services.

“We currently have almost 130 active clients and have delivered more than 1,000 one-to-one sessions already this year, with demand continuing to increase each month," she said.

"Importantly, these services are provided at significantly reduced rates, generally ranging from €20 to €50 per session, making support accessible to people who may otherwise be unable to afford private services where fees can often exceed €100 per session,” Ms Kelly said.

She said behind every referral is a person looking for support with anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationship difficulties, addiction, gambling-related harm, trauma, loneliness or other challenges.

“We are proud that, despite growing demand, we have not yet had to turn anyone away,” Ms Kelly said.

Charity seeking permanent base

The problem is that the charity’s current building in Midleton is rented, and as the number of practitioners, clients and services continues to increase, the organisation is being limited by the size and long-term uncertainty of the current premises.

“Our greatest challenge is not a lack of demand, nor a lack of commitment from practitioners or volunteers. Our greatest challenge is securing a long-term home for the service. As tenants, there is always uncertainty. Any improvements we make to the building ultimately remain with the property. While we will continue to invest in the service and the environment for our clients, we would like to be in a position where the work, resources and improvements we put into a building contribute to the long-term future of the charity itself,” Ms Kelly said.

She and others representing the charity have appealed to members of East Cork Municipal District and Cork County Council to help them if the local authority has a suitable premises available to house their activities.

“We believe mental health support's now an essential community service. The demand exists. The need exists. The Midleton Hub has demonstrated both its value and its sustainability. What we need is the opportunity to secure a permanent base from which we can continue to grow, develop and support the people of East Cork for many years to come,” Ms Kelly added.