Newry Mourne and Down District Council has launched Chums, a programme for people experiencing loneliness and reduced social activity. Chums stands for Community Hubs for Meeting and Socialising.

The initiative provides activity groups in libraries and community centres across the council area. Each group works with small numbers of participants and offers various activities.

Chums Project Manager Eamon Quinn stated that taking the first step out can be difficult but gentle support ensures a friendly welcome.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Philip Campbell said the programme aims to strengthen community relationships and build social connections for those affected by loneliness.

Councillor Terry Andrews, Chairperson of the PEACEPLUS Partnership, described Chums as collaboration between the local community, voluntary sector, council, and statutory agencies.

MayWe Events, a Belfast-based company, delivers Chums. The company has run activity programmes in the district before. A second MayWe social prescribing programme for emotional and mental wellbeing will start later this year.

PEACEPLUS funds Chums. The programme receives support from the European Union, UK Government, Irish Government, and Northern Ireland administration.