What's New
Welcome to the What’s New section of the ASCERT website.
Here you will find all of the latest news and updates from our organisation, along with listings of events and activities we are planning, attending or profiling that may be of interest.
You can also check out our Blogs section which contains interesting, informative and engaging personal perspective pieces from a range of contributors who are either directly connected to ASCERT, or whom are like us, keen to impart knowledge and experiences that may support others to address alcohol and/or drug related harm and support positive change.
You may also like to visit the Training section of this website for a full listing of available training courses and programmes.
ASCERT NEWS
ASCERT New Training Courses for 2025
ASCERT are delighted to announce 4 new drug and alcohol awareness training courses for 2025 which are FREE to those working in the community, voluntary and statutory sectors.
ASCERT launches Recovery Choir: A Weekly Safe Space for Healing Through Song
ASCERT, NI’s leading alcohol, drugs and mental health charity, are delighted to announce an inspirational new initiative – the ASCERT Recovery Choir. The choir meets at 6.45pm for an hour long practice starting at 7pm, finishing at 8pm, in the Westcourt Centre, Barrack Street, Belfast BT12 4AH.
WEBINAR – Ketamine Culture, Use & Trends
Ketamine Culture, Use & Trends’ Webinar, Facilitated by The Loop. Organised by Western and South-Eastern Connections.
Belfast Lord Mayor Supports ASCERT’s Steps to Cope Youth Participation Group
Belfast Lord Mayor Supports ASCERT’s Steps to Cope Youth Participation Group
ASCERT launches SMART Recovery Group in Omagh
NI’s leading alcohol and drug charity ASCERT announce their partnership with SMART Recovery to deliver free in person weekly meetings in Omagh for adults seeking support with addictive behaviour starting on Wednesday 7th August 2024.
Taking place weekly every Wednesday morning between 11am and 12.30pm in Omagh Library, these meetings do not require advanced booking and are free to anyone aged 18 and over.
Lisburn & Castlereagh Mayor’s Visit to ASCERT HQ
We were honoured to welcome the Lord Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh, Councillor Kurtis Dickson, to our head office today.
ASCERT BLOG
Alcohol Support Groups Northern Ireland: Discover the Benefits of SMART Recovery with ASCERT
ASCERT hosts FREE weekly SMART Recovery meetings in both Lisburn and Omagh, making it easier than ever to find Alcohol Support Groups Northern Ireland that suit your needs.
Northern Ireland Drug Support Services | Steps to Change | Mark’s Story
Northern Ireland Drug Support Services | Steps to Change is in the Western Trust and open to individuals aged 18+
ASCERT South East Connections Team Out & About in Donaghadee
Neil from ASCERT’s South East Connections team was in good company when he attended a Men’s Health Event in Donaghadee this week as Health Minister, Robin Swann, also took a trip to the seaside town.
Implementing Trauma Informed Approaches in NI
ASCERT’s Training Manager Colin Robinson and Training Officer Elena Brewer virtually attended Queens University’s research launch earlier this week. The Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland had commissioned Queens to undertake research to provide recommendations for the advancement of Trauma Informed Approaches across Northern Ireland.
Rethink Your Drink: 7 Tips for a Merry, Mindful Christmas
Here are 7 tips for a merry, mindful Christmas. The holiday season is known for joy, celebration, and, for many, a bit of indulgence. However, as the festive season approaches, it’s essential to approach the merriment with mindfulness, especially when it comes to our alcohol consumption. “Rethink Your Drink” is not just a catchy phrase; it’s a call to action for a healthier, happier holiday season.
How ASCERT develop our people
ASCERT have been an amazing organisation to work for to date. My journey with the charity started in 2020 and I was initially employed as an Administrator, carrying out front of house reception work. Throughout my role at reception, I was able to get to know...
Events
ASCERT NI WEBINAR | STEROIDS – Uncovering the Real Cost
Anabolic steroid use is growing in Northern Ireland. How much do you really know about the risks and potential harms? This webinar will explore health implications and harm reduction approaches to Image and Performance Enhancing Drugs. Speakers: Dave Crosland -...
Addressing Substance Use Among the LGBTQ+ Community: ASCERT’s Commitment at Omagh Pride
As Omagh gears up for its annual Pride event, ASCERT, dedicated to reducing drug and alcohol-related harm, are amplifying their call for support within the LGBTQ+ community. With statistics revealing the disproportionate impact of substance use on LGBTQ+ individuals, ASCERT stands with the LGBTQ+ community by offering non-judgmental support and guidance.
ASCERT NI WEBINAR | STEROIDS – Uncovering the Real Cost
Join us on Thursday 27th of June between 10am and 12:00noon to learn more about STEROIDS – Uncovering the Real Cost.
ASCERT NI WEBINAR RECORDING | Synthetic Opioids: Nitazenes in Focus
On Friday 1st March ASCERT hosted the first in a series of webinars on topical events in the field of alcohol and substances to be held throughout 2024, marking the charity’s 25th anniversary in providing support to communities across Northern Ireland with their prevention, intervention and training services.
Webinar | Synthetic Opioids: Nitazenes in Focus
You are warmly invited to attend the first in a series of online discussions ASCERT are hosting this year. On Friday 1st March starting at 10am we will be hosting a webinar focusing on the increasing unease around the availability and risk of harm from synthetic...
ASCERT Promoting PRIDE and Reducing Alcohol & Drug related PREJUDICE
ASCERT are proud to announce their involvement in Omagh Pride 2023 on Saturday 17th June.