ASCERT, Northern Ireland’s leading charity dedicated to reducing drug and alcohol-related harm, was honoured to welcome Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Micky Murray to its Belfast office, where he met with members of the Steps to Cope Youth Participation Group. This group is for young people aged 16-25 who have been affected by family addiction or mental health issues offering direct support, providing a safe space where they can build resilience and overcome the stigma associated with hidden harm.
The Lord Mayor’s visit reflects his dedication to creating a more inclusive Belfast and supporting vital services for vulnerable communities. During his visit, he spoke with the young people about their experiences, the challenges their families face with addiction and mental health issues, and how the Steps to Cope project is empowering them to overcome these difficulties.
Gary McMichael, Chief Executive of ASCERT, welcomed the Lord Mayor’s visit, saying:
“We’re delighted to have the Lord Mayor see first-hand the work we do to support young people affected by hidden harm. This visit highlights the importance of local leadership in raising awareness of issues including addiction and mental health. Through Steps to Cope, young people can find their voice and play an active role in shaping the services that support them.”
During the visit, the Lord Mayor participated in activities with the young people praising ASCERT for its dedication to creating a supportive community for Northern Ireland’s young people:
“It’s inspiring to see the work ASCERT is doing to empower young people affected by hidden harm. The Steps to Cope Youth Participation group is giving these young people a platform to share their experiences, break down barriers, and influence the future of services in Northern Ireland. As Lord Mayor, I want to support initiatives like this, which make our city more inclusive, kinder, and more understanding. The work being done here at ASCERT is vital for building a stronger, more compassionate Belfast.”
The group meet monthly at ASCERT’s offices, offering young people the opportunity to participate in activities like mindfulness, music therapy, community events, build friendships and share experiences. It also provides a platform for them to influence the development of ASCERT’s hidden harm service, ensuring they reflect the real needs of those affected by family addiction or mental health issues.
For more information on ASCERT and their services, please visit www.ascert.biz.