Ballymena and Antrim SVP volunteers unite at Mid Antrim gathering as charity responds to growing demand

(L-R) Annette McWilliams, Mary Waide, Maire McCormack, Johnny O'Boyle, and Clare Barr

Volunteers from St Vincent de Paul (SVP) Conferences in Ballymena and Antrim have come together at a Mid Antrim Area Gathering as the charity continues to respond to increasing demand for support from people experiencing poverty and hardship across Northern Ireland.

The event brought together local members to share experiences from the communities they serve, discuss emerging challenges and explore how the charity can continue to provide practical help to those facing financial difficulties, food insecurity, fuel poverty and social isolation.

The Mid Antrim gathering forms part of a wider programme of Area Gatherings taking place across the Northern Region, giving more than 1,000 SVP members the opportunity to reconnect, learn from one another and help shape the organisation’s future work.

Supporting local communities

(L-R) Margaret Skillen, Ann-Marie Kinney, Aidan McCormack, Linda Taylor, and Frances McGarry

(L-R) Aidan McCormack, Ann-Marie Kinney, Margaret Skillen, Linda Taylor, and Frances McGarry

(L-R) Betty McGinley, Roisin McGrandles, Leza Steele, Mark McGinley, Peggy Craig, and Niamh Craig

(L-R) Edward Forester, Josephine O'Neill, and Joe O'Boyle

At the heart of SVP’s work are its local Conferences – volunteer groups whose members provide direct support to individuals and families in their own communities.

The gatherings are designed not only to recognise the dedication of long-serving volunteers but also to identify changing local needs and strengthen collaboration between Conferences.

The charity says demand for its services continues to remain high, particularly for assistance with food and household fuel costs.

Last year, SVP spent approximately £5.5 million helping people experiencing poverty across Northern Ireland, responding to tens of thousands of requests for assistance.

Listening to volunteers on the ground

(L-R) Frances McCudden, Johnny O'Boyle, and Elaine Rogan

(L-R) Brendan Smyth, Mary Davis, Pauline Kearney, and Barry Corrigan

(L-R) John Carey, Geraldine McKeever, Mary Glynn, and James Dougan

Anne Irwin, SVP Regional President for the Northern Region, said the gatherings provide an important opportunity to hear directly from those working with families every day.

“Area Gatherings are a vital opportunity for the Society to provide a platform for our members, to celebrate their incredible dedication, and understand the challenges they face on the ground.

“We know that poverty takes many forms including financial difficulties, social isolation, food insecurity, fuel poverty and no two communities are the same.

“These meetings allow us to reflect together and take a holistic approach to finding practical ways to respond with dignity and hope.”

She said the organisation continues to see increasing demand for practical support.

“We’re witnessing continued rising demand for our services from food support to fuel assistance. These Area Gatherings provide us with an opportunity to reaffirm our shared mission, engage with our members at a local level and re-energise our commitment to those we serve.”

An appeal for more volunteers

(L-R) Brendan McKay, Elizabeth Scullion, Johnny O'Boyle, and James McGrath

(L-R) Brian Fitzsimons, Sheelagh Hillan, John Scullion, Elizabeth Scullion, Brendan McKay, Johnny O'Boyle, Gerry Lynch, and James McGrath

(L-R) Judy Watson, Mary Davis, Rosemary Simpson, and Clare Barr

SVP is also encouraging more people in communities including Ballymena and Antrim to consider becoming involved with the charity.

Anne Irwin added:

“Our Conferences are built on the incredible generosity of local people. Whether it’s offering time, skills, or a listening ear, every volunteer plays a part in creating a compassionate network of support. We would love to see new faces joining SVP, people who want to help, who care about their neighbours, and who believe in the power of community.”

How to get involved

The Society of St Vincent de Paul is Ireland’s largest voluntary charity, supporting people of all backgrounds who are experiencing poverty and social exclusion.

Anyone interested in becoming an SVP member, volunteering in a local Vincent’s shop or seeking assistance from the Society can find more information by visiting svp.ie, emailing info@svpni.co.uk or calling 028 9035 1561.

For volunteers from Ballymena and Antrim, the Mid Antrim gathering was not simply an opportunity to meet colleagues—it was a chance to strengthen the local network that continues to support individuals and families across the area at a time when many are still feeling the pressure of the rising cost of living.