BEAM in the Park to bring Ballymoney together for mental wellbeing picnic

BEAM in the Park, organised by (L-R) Katherine Murphy, Lee Kane, Hannah Graham, Zara Hutchinson and Clare Doherty.

Following the success of its May Dawn Walk, BEAM (Building Empowerment and Awareness to Mind) is inviting residents to gather once again for a free community event designed to support mental health and encourage social connection.

BEAM in the Park will take place this Sunday, 17 August, from 2pm to 4pm in Riverside Park, Ballymoney. The afternoon promises a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, celebrating the benefits of nature and community.

Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, a blanket or chair, and enjoy one of Ballymoney’s most scenic green spaces.

Activities will include gentle background music, children’s games, a storytelling corner, and a free outdoor yoga taster session suitable for all ages and abilities.

“We know that spending time outside and being around others is good for our mental health,” said organiser Hannah Graham.

“It doesn’t have to be anything complicated: just sitting on the grass, chatting with someone, listening to music, or being part of a shared space can make a real difference.”

Community-led mental health support

The BEAM organising group – Hannah Graham, Katherine Murphy (Building Communities Resource Centre), Zara Hutchinson (Ballymoney Community Fridge), Clare Doherty (Community Rescue Service), and Ballymoney Councillor Lee Kane – are all volunteers united by a shared passion for supporting others.

BEAM was formed earlier this year after discussions on how Ballymoney could respond more openly and positively to mental health. Its first event, a 4am Dawn Walk in May, drew more than 250 people who walked through the town as the sun rose. The initiative received heartfelt praise from participants and the wider community.

“After the Dawn Walk, we started receiving messages from people asking what we were planning next,” explained Zara Hutchinson.

“Some were people who had taken part, and others said they wished they had. That response made us realise there’s a need, and a desire, for community spaces like this.”

The group has committed to hosting occasional events year-round to keep the conversation about mental wellbeing alive.

“We’re not a service or a charity, just people who care,” added Clare Doherty.

“BEAM is about community looking after community. If someone leaves our event feeling seen, supported, or a little lighter than they came, then we’ve done something good.”

Event Details

• When: Sunday 17 August, 2pm–4pm

• Where: Riverside Park, Ballymoney

• Cost: Free – no registration required

• Bring: Picnic, blanket/chair, open heart

For more details and updates, visit www.beamballymoney.org