Community Action for Locally Managing Stress (CALMS), Derry

Established in 1994 as a tentative response to a clearly felt need for structured and effective assistance and support for people suffering from stress and stress-related illnesses as a direct result of conflict in NI, CALMS provides a supportive and nurturing environment and context in which participants feel listened to, valued and their experiences validated and empathised with.  They applied for funding towards making their premises accessible to all (many of their clients struggle with the steps into the building) and installing perimeter railings in accordance with listed buildings guidelines.  Cllr Sandra Duffy has met the group over fund-raising efforts and confirmed she had offered support through the Mayor’s Fund.  She also praised their invaluable work dealing with mental health issues; combatting depression; and supporting well-being – especially emerging from Covid, and asked that the Committee consider awarding the full amount requested as the project will cost considerably more and will improve overall access to the centre.  Recognising that the work was essential to the building being fully fit for purpose, a grant of £2,000 was agreed.