CALLING ALL OFFALY PEOPLE: Local mental health charity needs YOUR vote!

ACCESSIBLE Counselling (ACT), a volunteer-led mental health charity dedicated to providing professional, affordable, and timely counselling services, has been shortlisted for the PTSB Community Fund – a prestigious initiative supporting grassroots organisations making a real difference in their communities. To secure this vital funding, ACT needs the public’s vote.

Since its establishment in 2020, ACT has provided essential mental health support to over 2,700 individuals, delivering more than 12,500 counselling and psychotherapy sessions. Its purpose-built centre in Tullamore has become a beacon of hope for those struggling with anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationship challenges, and other mental health concerns.

Being shortlisted for the PTSB Community Fund is a testament to the impact ACT has had across the Midlands. If successful, the funding will allow the charity to expand its services, increase the number of professional counsellors, and further raise awareness about the importance of mental health support in rural communities.

“We are honoured to be shortlisted for the PTSB Community Fund, but now we need the public’s help,” said Joe Connolly, Chair of ACT. “Every vote counts. By voting for ACT, you are directly supporting mental health services that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.”

To vote for ACT, visit www.ptsb.ie and click on Community Fund or go to Accessible Counselling’s social media pages. You can also vote via the PTSB banking app.

While ACT is based in Tullamore, its reach extends far beyond Offaly. Clients travel from Laois, Westmeath, Tipperary, Roscommon, Galway and Longford, and even further afield to access its trusted and confidential services. The charity has seen a significant rise in referrals from GPs, social media, and word-of-mouth recommendations, highlighting the urgent need for community-based mental health support in the region. The service is easily accessible by bus and rail from across the midlands.

“No one should struggle alone or face long waiting lists for mental health support,” said Lisa O’Connor, ACT’s Co-Founder and Operations Manager. “We are committed to providing timely, accessible counselling to those who need it most, but we can’t do it without the support of the public.”

This milestone coincides with the second anniversary of the passing of ACT’s co-founder, James O’Connor, whose vision and dedication to mental health advocacy continue to inspire the organisation. In line with his legacy, ACT will launch its Strategic Plan 202-202, focusing on expanding services, enhancing corporate sponsorship initiatives, and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

The community can make a lasting impact by casting a vote for ACT in the PTSB Community Fund competition. Every vote brings ACT one step closer to securing vital funding that will directly benefit those in need across the Midlands.For more information, visit www.accessiblecounselling.ie