Mental Health Ireland introduced a Merit Award in 2009 to mark noteworthy achievements of our local Mental Health Associations.

Projects submitted were judged by an independent panel from outside the association and awards were presented at our last Annual Conference in Sheraton Hotel, Athlone in May 2009.

This project honours particular achievements but also provides an opportunity for delegates at the Conference to be made aware of new projects which could be replicated for use within their respective local MHAs.



 














Longford Mental Health Association, won the 2009 Merit Award for the project Nurturing Your Mental Health Through Reading. A list of mental health issues were identified and an appropriate reading list devised following consultations with the project team who in turn sought the guidance of their own members, a Psychiatric Nurse, a GP and other health care professionals and development workers in the area of health promotion. The reading list was edited and additional support information researched such as relevant websites, information leaflets, helpline numbers, both local and national, as added support for the reader. Multiple copies of the recommended books along with supplementary materials such as mental health information leaflets/brochures and a list of accredited website addresses are available in the local library. 

Ann Howard, Honorary Secretary of Longford MHA being presented with the Merit Award by Joe Casey, Director of Mental Health Ireland