Gleno event celebrates International Day of Rural Women with focus on wellbeing and community

L-R Claire McNair, Ballyclare Ladies Farm Forum, Ashleigh Magee, Gillian Dawson, Suzanne Pullins, Interim Chief Executive, NHSCT, Yvonne Carson, Rural Health and Wellbeing Manager, NHSCT and Anna Simms, Ballyclare Ladies Farm Forum,

More than sixty women from across rural communities gathered at Gleno Young Farmers Hall to mark the International Day of Rural Women, at an event organised by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) in partnership with Ballyclare Ladies Farm Forum and the Ulster Farmers’ Union.

The ‘Celebrating Rural Women’s’ evening brought together women from farming families, rural organisations and local communities, offering a rare opportunity to pause, connect socially and reflect on their contribution to rural life.

Sleep and Wellbeing Take Centre Stage

Keynote speaker Deborah Mullan.

Keynote speaker Deborah Mullan led the evening with a well-received presentation on the importance of sleep for overall health. Her talk, titled “sleep for good health”, explored practical techniques for achieving better rest, including advice on calming the mind, creating a sleep-friendly environment, and supporting the body’s natural rhythms.

Deborah also addressed how to break unhelpful sleep habits, manage stress, and build effective bedtime routines. Attendees left with “actionable strategies for a healthier, happier night’s rest”.

After the presentation, guests enjoyed a supper before being entertained with a short comedic sketch by local performance group The Gathering Girls, adding a light-hearted finale to the evening.

Celebrating Rural Women event at Gleno

Positive Feedback and Strong Community Spirit

Yvonne Carson, Rural Health and Wellbeing Manager at NHSCT, said:

“The aim of this event was to bring rural women together to celebrate International Day of Rural Women and it was fitting that we recognise the vital role they play in rural life.

“As well as having our fabulous keynote speaker Deborah Mullan, we were also thrilled to have the ‘Gathering Girls’ perform. They really added a fun element to the evening!”

Representatives from Ballyclare Ladies Farm Forum praised the atmosphere and turnout.

L-R Anna Simms, Ballyclare Ladies Farm Forum, Yvonne Carson, Rural Health and Wellbeing Manager, NHSCT, Claire McNair, Ballyclare Ladies Farm Forum and Kathryn McCullough, UFU Ballyclare and Larne

Claire McNair commented:

“It was wonderful to bring so many rural women together for this event. As well as learning key information about sleep and wellbeing we also enjoyed a lovely evening of food, fun and fellowship”.

Her colleague, Anna Simms, added:

“Feedback has been very positive and events like these are great for bringing women together and catching up with friends we haven’t seen for a while.”

Kathryn McCullough from the Ulster Farmers’ Union emphasised the significance of supporting rural women’s leadership:

“We were delighted to partner with the Northern Trust and Ballyclare Ladies Farm Forum on this initiative. Rural women play an important role within our community including within leadership roles and it was fitting that we celebrate and support the contribution they make within society.”

A Celebration of Contribution and Connection

(L-R Back) Louise Gillespie, Joan Arnold, Lorraine Harper; (Front) Anne McDowell and Stephanie Weatherup

Organisers say the strong turnout and positive feedback highlight the continued need for community-focused events that support the wellbeing, resilience and social connection of women living and working in rural areas.