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08 December 2011

Those who assist the victims and survivors of the Troubles will be recognised and celebrated today in Omagh at a special Awards ceremony organised by the Community Relations Council (CRC).    

Dr Leon Litvack, chair of CRC’s Victims and Survivors Committee, said:

“We are all social creatures, and crave the company of family and friends. The Troubles have, unfortunately, taken their toll on this most basic aspect of human interaction. There are those among us who have lost loved ones, who have withdrawn from society, and who find it difficult or impossible to engage meaningfully with those around them. It is in these situations that ‘befriending’ comes into play, as a welcome gift, a support mechanism, and a step on the road to re-integration into society.  Volunteer befrienders make contact with those in need, and offer a helping hand, sometimes with simple activities, and other times with emotionally difficult ones. The efforts of these essential volunteers are being recognised today.”

In the Gift of Time ceremony at the Silverbirch Hotel in Omagh 30 certificates will be awarded to volunteers who have completed Befriending training. Special Awards will also be made to organisations and individuals involved in this work:

Iris Crawford (Tyrone East Phoenix) receives Co-ordinator of the Year Award

Firinne receives Best New Group Award

V.A.S.T. receives Best Liaison Group Award

The Ely Centre receives Best Integrated Programme Award

David Grimsley (S.E. Fermanagh Foundation) receives Befriender of the Year Award

Willie and Eva Wallace (UDR Association, Enniskillen) receive Overall Befriending Excellence Award

For further information contact

Ray Mullan rmullan@nicrc.org.uk  tel 028 90 227500