Mayor Elisha McCallion

THE Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District is encouraging members of local ethnic minority groups to attend a special Black and Minority Ethnic Health Day taking place on October 17. 

This event is taking place at St. Columb’s Park House and is delivered in partnership between the Western Health and Social Care Trust, The Housing Executive, and Health Improvement Western Area with the aim of supporting and connecting the Black and Minority Ethnic Communities to Health Services across the Council area.

Encouraging local groups to attend, Mayor McCallion said: “There are approximately 50 nationalities and 70 languages amongst the local population and vibrant ethnic community groups in Strabane and Derry.

“During my term in office I’ve had the pleasure of meeting with many of them personally to see the positive work being carried out.

“As our city and district plans for the potential arrival of refugees from the current Syrian crisis it’s important we continue to deliver work progressing equality, tackling racism and promoting understanding of all our existing minority communities so that we grow as a city of sanctuary for all.”

The event, which features health checks, stalls and talks, runs from 10.30am – 1.30pm, and has been funded through the District Council’s Good Relations Programme (OFMDFM) with support for interpretation from the Housing Executive.

There will also be a number of activities for children, and families are particularly encouraged to attend.

Community Relations Officer with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Sue Divin, said they hoped to raise community awareness of the resources and services available to minority groups.

“Saturday’s event is an initiative from the North West Black and Minority Ethnic Strategic Forum which represents around 20 local community groups from diverse identities in the council area.

“We are delighted to have had such an extensive partnership and community planning approach from the four statutory agencies and our local ethnic minority sector.

“The purpose of the event is to link families and individuals from diverse backgrounds directly with health providers to overcome any cultural, linguistic or other barriers to using the services.”

The event does not require pre-registration and is free to attend.