UFU Sees Government Action On Fuel Campaign

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UFU Sees Government Action On Fuel Campaign

Government acts on UFU fuel pressure campaign

The Ulster Farmers’ Union has described the UK Government’s decision to extend the 5p fuel duty cut and introduce a temporary reduction in red diesel duty as a significant and positive step for farmers and rural communities following sustained engagement and lobbying from the UFU.

The 5p fuel duty cut, first introduced in 2022 and originally due to begin phasing out from September, has now been extended by Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, until the end of the year.

Alongside this, the duty rate on red diesel, an essential fuel used by farmers in tractors, harvesters and other off-road machinery, will be reduced from 10.18p per litre to 6.48p per litre from 15 June until the end of 2026.

Commenting on the announcement, UFU president, John McLenaghan, said: “The UFU welcomes this announcement, particularly the temporary reduction in red diesel duty.

“Red diesel is not a discretionary cost for farmers; it is an essential input used every day to produce food, manage land, keep farm businesses operating, and ultimately deliver high quality, affordable food for consumers.

The UFU is delighted that the government is assisting farmers by lowering the duty rate on fuel.

“Farmers and rural communities have faced severe fuel and input cost pressures with very limited direct assistance.

“This measure is a welcome first step and recognises the immediate pressure that rising fuel costs are placing on agricultural businesses.

“However, this cannot be the end of Government action.

Fuel pressures and wider input costs are already influencing production decisions on farms across Northern Ireland, and further targeted support is needed to prevent serious consequences for domestic food production.”

In addition to the fuel duty cut, the UFU’s four other key asks set out, which they will continue to press Government for action on were as follows:

  • A further temporary reduction in fuel duty to reduce diesel costs, including retention of the existing fuel duty cut beyond September 2026 and a pause to the planned phased reintroduction. [ACHIEVED]
  • The establishment of a UK-wide market monitoring and transparency framework for fuel and fertiliser pricing. [GOVERNMENT PROGRESSING]
  •  A one-off, time-limited fertiliser support scheme for the 2026 season, delivered through direct payments or vouchers. [ONGOING]
  • The extension or reintroduction of targeted energy cost relief schemes for agricultural businesses, particularly in energy-intensive sectors. [To be discussed with the NI Executive Office next week]
  • The designation of agriculture and food production as priority sectors in any fuel supply disruption or emergency allocation framework. [To be discussed with the NI Executive Office next week]

Mr McLenaghan added: “For the largest industry in Northern Ireland to have gone without support until now is unacceptable.

“Other European countries have already acted to back their agricultural sectors, and we need to see the same degree of assistance here.

“Farmers are doing everything they can to keep food on tables while managing unprecedented cost pressures.

If the Government is serious about protecting food security and sustaining rural communities, it must continue to deliver enhanced targeted support as a matter of urgency.”

Downpatrick Market Street Parking Issue Info

Jim Masson
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Downpatrick Market Street Parking Issue Info

Down News digs deep to examine the background around the Market Street Car Park in Downpatrick

Recently, Downpatrick Counillor Galbraith engaged with Newry Mourne and Down District Council and Down News understands that the discussion is still ongoing involving the private sector operator.around tarrifs etc.

However, the questions remain, why is the car park in the private sector and has this policy been reviewed in recent times ?

The Market Street car park: (Photo: Jim Masson/DownNews©).

FOI Request 8th April 2026 to NMDDC

On 8th April 2026, I inquired through making an Freedom of Information Request to Newry Mourne and Down District Council on how the Market Street car park went into the private sector.

The questions I put to Council were:

  1. “Can you explain if this was something that the councillors voted on to pass the car park on to the private sector, and if so when was the decision made and at what council meeting did this take place ? 
  2. “Can you explain why the council opted to pass the lease to the private sector and not manage the car park itself ?”.

NMDDC’s First Response Received on 22nd April 2026

Newry Mourne and Down District Council holds recorded information relating to your request – please see below extract from legacy Down District Council Minutes of the Corporate Services Committee meetings held on 19th March 2003 and 17 September 2003.

19 March 2003.

11.      CHARGING – CAR PARK, MARKET STREET, DOWNPATRICK  (MS/38076 & RD/161)

The Director advised that this item had been raised at the request of the Clerk and Chief Executive, who had received a substantial number of complaints from traders in relation to all day parking in the Car Park at Market Street, Downpatrick and requested that charging for the use of the car park be investigated.  Following completion of the redevelopment at the car park, a report on charging was due to be submitted to the Committee for consideration.  The Council have no statutory powers to charge for use of its car parks, but could, if requested, enter into an agreement with agencies such as National Car Parks, who would instigate charges on their behalf.

RECOMMENDATION:   It was AGREED on the PROPOSAL of Councillor Rea SECONDED by Councillor Colmer to authorise the Director to investigate the possibility of charging for use of the Car Park at Market Street, Downpatrick with the National Car Parks and report back to the Committee accordingly.

17 September 2003

RECOMMENDATION:   It was AGREED on the PROPOSAL of Councillor Colmer SECONDED by Councillor Curran that the tender from CPS for the operation of the car park, Market Street, Downpatrick with the following tariffs be accepted, as recommended – 0-1hour – 30p, 1-2 hours – 60p, 2-4 hours – £1.50, 4-6 hours – £3.00, over 6 hours – £5.00.

                                    A vote was taken on Councillor Colmer’s PROPOSAL as follows:-

                                                FOR THE PROPOSAL                       3

                                                AGAINST THE PROPOSAL             3

                                    The Chairman used his casting vote and the PROPOSAL was carried.

***

The Council officer said: “Further to my response of 22nd April 2026 you asked: Had this decision ever been reviewed at any stage in the legacy council or in the current council?

Respose from NMDDC

Newry Mourne and Down District Council holds recorded information relating to your request – please see Council’s response below.

A report was considered by the legacy Down District Council Strategic, Policy and Resources Committee on 2nd February 2009 and approved by Council on 23 February 2009 – see below minute as follows:

PR02/02/2009

5.           (a)         MARKET STREET CAR PARK, DOWNPATRICK  (MS/3862)

Report on Market Street Car Park, Downpatrick, copy of which had been circulated to Members, was submitted for consideration.

Members welcomed the continuation of the licence from the Council to Car Park Services Ltd to operate the car park at Market Street, Downpatrick, as this generated income for the Council.

RECOMMENDATION:  It was AGREED on the PROPOSAL of Councillor Mac Con Midhe SECONDED by Councillor Doris that the Council continue with the Licence Agreement with Car Park Services Ltd after its expiry in July 2009 until such times as a decision has been reached as to the future of the site and once this has been done, the Agreement can be determined upon the giving of one months notice in writing.

***

Therefore, based on the response from NMDDC, it appears that the management of the car park has not been formally reviewed in recent years. Cllr Conor Galbraith did press Council and Down News understands there has been some revision of tarriffs.

Given that the Downpatrick business community and wider community have concerns about parking in the town generally, and that the Market Street car park is among other factors of matters of concern, is a full council review now overdue of the Market Street Car Park ?

This begs the question: if the car park is profitable given that the private operator has maintained business there year on year, why has NMDDC under is ‘sustainability’ protocols not considered re-managing the car park ?

If legislation is prohibiting the Council from operating sustainably, then that legislation needs to be amended. And is there in fact an actual contract in place after July 2009 ?

A report WAS considered by NMDDC on the 23rd February 2009…. that was 17 years ago. The tariffs have increased since then, and again, a question may be asked, were these increases within the contractual agreement between the operator and NMDDC agreed within Council (at some stage).

We may never know as Council has a policy of not providing details of private contracts.

Downpatrick businesses are seeking as much relief as possible given they suffered badly from the 2023 floods just after the Covid pandemic. Shopping and trading patterns may also have changed. More people may be shopping online,

And the downturn in the economy means there is less disposable income to drive the circular economy of Downpatrick.

The Council has from time-to-time ran Shop Local campaigns, which help drive trade, but at the heart of trading in Downpatrick is the issue of car parking and shoppers and visitors receiving costly fines is a deterrent to shopping in Downpatrick.

Car parking costs within the Council area should be equitable and not favouring one town at the expense of others. That is the general view of traders in Downpatrick I have spoken to who are essentially trying to survive in difficult circumstances.

Hazzard Urges Parties To Back Good Jobs Bill

Staff Reporter
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Hazzard Urges Parties To Back Good Jobs Bill

Good jobs will be transformative for workers in South Down says Hazzard

South Down Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard has welcomed the submission of the Good Jobs Bill to the Executive by Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald.

He urged all parties to work together to ensure the Bill can begin progressing through the Assembly without delay.

“We are living through an unprecedented cost of living crisis. The best way to address that is to ensure working people have access to decent jobs with fair pay, secure conditions and strong workplace protections,” said Chris Hazzard.

South Down MLA Sinéad Ennis and Chris Hazzard MP at Monday’s Good Jobs Bill rally at Stormont. 

“South Down has a flourishing tourism and hospitality economy, with hundreds of workers employed across hotels, restaurants, bars and cafés.

“These workers are also among those most affected by exploitative zero-hours contracts and insecure working practices.

“Across South Down, in our care homes, hospitality businesses and shops, hard-working people are struggling to make ends meet.

“And there are also many carers looking after elderly relatives in rural communities who need more support.

“The Good Jobs Bill will be transformative for workers here. It will tackle exploitative zero-hours contracts, strengthen flexible working rights, protect women from dismissal during maternity leave, introduce carer’s leave and paid neo-natal care leave, and make it easier for workers to join trade unions.

“On Thursday, 28 May, the Good Jobs Bill will go to the Executive, and it is vital that all ministers agree to it so it can proceed to the Assembly for scrutiny.

“This is among the most progressive pieces of workers’ rights legislation ever introduced in the North.”

Domestic Abuse One Stop Shop In Downpatrick

Staff Reporter
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Domestic Abuse One Stop Shop In Downpatrick

One stop shop for domestic abuse is available in the Down Arts Centre – see poster for dates

• Downpatrick Domestic Abuse One Stop Shop | 26 May 2026 | Down Arts Centre | 10am – 12pm

Weekends can often be particularly challenging for women living with domestic or sexual violence.

Increased time spent in the home, social pressures, financial strain, family conflict or reduced access to support can contribute to incidents escalating over the weekend period.

A carefully timed reminder on the Sunday may act as an important prompt, reassuring women that confidential help is available locally and perhaps giving them the encouragement needed to attend the Tuesday session after experiencing a distressing weekend.

Downpatrick Domestic Abuse One Stop Shop | 26 May 2026 | Down Arts Centre | 10am – 12pm.

Screenshot

McGrath Asks Stormont To Avert Doctors’ Strike

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McGrath Asks Stormont To Avert Doctors’ Strike

McGrath says Executive must move to prevent doctors’ strike

Opposition Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath MLA (SDLP) has said the Executive must take responsibility for the growing breakdown in relations with healthcare workers after the BMA (British Medical Association) announced plans for strike action later this month.

If backed in ballots, action by consultants, SAS doctors and resident doctors could lead to major disruption across hospitals and services at the end of June.

South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “News of a potential doctors’ strike will cause serious concern for people across the North.

South Down MLA Colin McGrath said the Stormont Executive must take measures to avert a doctors’ strike after the BMA balloted its members.

“Patients are already waiting far too long for treatment and many will now fear cancellations and further uncertainty while dealing with illness or ongoing health conditions.

“This situation did not arise overnight.

“The Executive and Health Minister have once again allowed relationships with frontline staff to deteriorate to the point where industrial action is now being considered.

“Doctors do not take these decisions lightly. They understand better than anyone the strain our hospitals are under and the impact disruption can have on patients, but many feel ignored and undervalued.

“For years we have heard repeated promises about transforming the health service and supporting staff, yet healthcare workers continue to find themselves considering industrial action over pay, conditions and workforce pressures.

“Staff are trying to hold together a system facing chronic shortages, poor planning and increasing pressure on services.

“The Health Minister must now get around the table, engage seriously with staff representatives and work to prevent strike action.

“The longer this drags on, the greater the impact on both patients and staff.

“People are fed up watching the health service lurch from one crisis to another while the Executive continually reacts instead of delivering the reform that is desperately needed,” said Colin McGrath.

However, with a £2Billion hole in the finances of the Executive coffers making it almost impossible to budget for health going forward compared to other regions in the UK, the Executive will need to address this issue head on and speak to the Treasury and Health Secretary in London and redress the deficit.

The solution may partly lie in London. But the other part of this complex equation may lie in equitably transforming the health system in the North – but there will be winners and losers, and given the nature of politics here, such changes could be very contentious in some quarters particularly with a Stormont election coming up next year.

Downpatrick Races Preview For Friday Night

Staff Reporter
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Downpatrick Races Preview For Friday Night

Downpatrick Racecourse: Preview and Tips for Friday’s Seven-Race Meeting

At Downpatrick Racecourse on Friday evening (22 5 26) there is another ‘jumps’ meeting with three hurdle races, a beginners’ chase, two hunter chases and a point-to-point bumper on the card. 

Read on for a preview of and tips for the Downpatrick card, brought to you by BetBrothers.

First of all is a maiden hurdle run over two miles and three furlongs (17.20). There are two newcomers; Yolanda’s Star and Undertheinfluence, both of whom look best watched on this occasion.

Mr Master Mac has shown some ability so far and could factor, but he carries more weight than Cailin Deas, who has offered plenty of encouragement and could be well suited by the step up in trip here. 

Race two is a handicap hurdle run over the same trip (17.52). Arcland won his latest start over hurdles but is much higher in the weights now, while Seskin Flash was productive last season and could progress from a lack-lustre return to action last month. I’ll Be Handy looks like he might be just that, having done well in the juvenile division last year, and he has a useful five pounds given by his rider. 

Edging ahead in the first race, Roc Dino, left, ridden by Paul Townend and trained by Willie Mullins, won the Randox Maiden Hurdle. (Photo: Jim Masson/DownNews©,)

The third race is a two and three quarter mile handicap hurdle (18.29). Gangster Granny was a course and distance winner last time out and has risen accordingly in the weights now. Joya Del Mar could be down to a winnable mark, while Gortmore Lady makes some appeal for the same reason. Phildante is good over this sort of trip and could be in line to at least pick up a place. 

Our beginners’ chase follows, run over two and a half miles (19.00). Giant Haystacks was the highest rated over hurdles and was best over this distance, so he looks promising having had a break. Coolboy Christy comes here in good form after a decent couple of runs, and he could possibly get involved too. 

Down News photos from the race meeting on 8 5 26.

Race five is a three-mile maiden hunters’ chase (19.30). The runners can have won a point-to-point, but not a race under Rules. West Of Idaho has won two point-to-points on the way to today and seeks a hat-trick, looking difficult to oppose in his current strain of form. Cebu City looks to be the one to challenge him in first-time cheekpieces after a good five-length win last time.  

Second to last is another hunters’ chase, this time over three miles and five furlongs (20.00). Cause For Commitment could be well enough qualified to stay this long trip, given that he has won at Punchestown on testing ground. Dorking Cock could also  be in the mix, along with Fortune Lad, who is a consistent sort and, only six years old, is still entitled to improve. 

Finally, we conclude with a point-to-point bumper (20.30). Dinner Dance, Majestic Horizon and Brootally have all in point-to-point company, so should be good here. Theemeraldempress was a very close second on debut and may also factor. Majestic Horizon may have the most suitable pedigree to win over this trip, though. 

Downpatrick selections – Friday:

17.20 – Cailin Deas

17.52 – Seskin Flash

18.29 – Phildante e/w

19.00 – Coolboy Christy

19.30 – Cebu City

20.00 – Fortune Lad

20.30 – Majestic Horizon.

Down News photos from the race meeting on 8 5 26.

Shannon Hosts Vascular And Venous Group

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Shannon Hosts Vascular And Venous Group

Jim Shannon MP has hosted an All-Party Parliamentary Group for Vascular and Venous Disease at Westminster

As an active parliamentarian, on Tuesday 5th May Jim Shannon, Strangford MP, hosted the Annual Parliamentary Drop-In event for the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Vascular and Venous Disease (VVAPPG).

The event brought together Charities, patients, representative bodies, clinicians, industry partners, and Parliamentarians to raise awareness of the challenges which vascular disease poses for patients, NHS bodies and the wider NHS.

Jim Shannon said: “I was delighted to host a very successful Parliamentary Drop-In as Chair of the VVAPPG.

l-r: Jim Shannon MP, Professor Stella Vig, National Clinical Director for Elective Care, NHS England, and Vascular Surgeon and Roger Greer, Associate Director, PLMR Healthcomms pictured at Westminster on Tuesday 5th May 2026.

“It was fantastic to see so many key people in one room in Parliament, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for the Vascular Sector.

“The cost of late diagnosis and treatment for patients and the NHS is enormous, and it is vital that the Government gives appropriate support for an area of care that spans from ongoing community care to the most complex surgery. 

“The VVAPPG has been calling for National Leadership in this area, with a dedicated Clinical Lead within the new NHS and DHSC structures to take ownership for Vascular Services, ensuring patients get the right care, in the right place, at the right time.

“Vascular Disease impacts hundreds of thousands of people across Northern Ireland and I am looking forward to working closely with colleagues in the coming weeks and months to push for Vascular Services getting the level of support that it needs – and its patients – deserve”.

SERC Gears Up For The Lecale Rallye

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SERC Gears Up For The Lecale Rallye

SERC Gears Up for Lecale Rally with Student Information Event in Downpatrick

When two motor rally champions drove onto SERC Downpatrick Campus in their competition cars this week, they attracted attention from students and staff as well as the local First Citizen.

Ballynahinch and District Motor Club worked with the SERC engagement team to arrange a visit to the college in advance of the rally championship event planned for Downpatrick this summer.

The Motor Club is partnering with Newry Mourne and Down District Council to bring the Carryduff Forklift Lecale Rallye event to the town and wanted to engage with Motorsport and Motor Vehicle students and apprentices at SERC. 

The Rallye Lecale event, a round of the Brown and Brown NI Rally Championship, takes place on Saturday 25th July.

Newry Mourne and Down District Chairman, Councillor Philip Campbell, joined the students who gathered from different SERC campuses, to get a good look at the rally cars and hear from champion drivers Jonny Greer and William Creighton first hand.

(l-r): SERC Motorsport Engineering student Caleigh Baine aged 21, from Castlewellan; Jonny Greer, DGM Sport; Chair of NMDDC Councillor Philip Campbell; William Creighton, British Rally Champion 2025;  Jonathan Warnock (aged 17) from Castlewellan, studying Motorsport Engineering at SERC.(Photos courtesy of SERC).

The day included plenty of opportunities to learn about careers in motorsport as well as about the teamwork involved in rally events, alongside a presentation “Keep the Race in Its Place” that highlighted the importance of responsible driving, and the risks of unsafe behaviour on public roads.

At the end of the event, Stuart Parker, SERC lecturer in Motorsport Engineering, said: “The day has been a major success for all SERC Motorsport students.

“Both our Level 3 and Foundation Degree students found the talks of great interest, and we were delighted that the current British Rally Champion William Creighton has taken the time out to mix and chat with our students.

“It must be said that getting up close to the Rally 2 GR Yaris was the icing on the cake and was, in keeping with our emphasis on real-life learning at SERC, a fantastic way for everyone to appreciate the technology involved.”

Chairman of Ballynahinch and District Motor Club, Brian Crawford said, “Everyone was very happy to share their experiences in the world of motor sport with the students at SERC Campuses.

“I hope that it might be beneficial to them in some small way in their future choices.

SERC Motor Sports Engineering students with NI champion rally driver, Jonny Greer ( DGM Sports, left) pictured at the rally event at SERC Downpatrick Campus

“We are very grateful to the lecturers, and all involved for the enthusiasm and hospitality that was shown to us on the day.”

Head of Engagement and Development at SERC, Catherine Shipman added: “We are delighted to have worked in partnership with Brian Crawford and the Ballynahinch and District Motor Club to make this event possible. 

“Rallye Lecale represents a fantastic opportunity to celebrate motorsport locally, and it’s been a great opportunity today to also showcase the talent, ambition and potential of our students.

“It’s been wonderful to welcome partners and champions of the sport to our Downpatrick campus and provide our learners with an engaging, real-world experience that connects directly to future career pathways.”

Caption:

Pic 1: SERC Motor Sports Engineering students with NI champion rally driver, Jonny Greer ( DGM Sports) pictured at the rally event at SERC Downpatrick Campus

Pic 2  (l-r): SERC Motorsport Engineering student Caleigh Baine aged 21, from Castlewellan; Jonny Greer, DGM Sport; Chair of NMDDC Councillor Philip Campbell; William Creighton, British Rally Champion 2025;  Jonathan Warnock (aged 17) from Castlewellan, studying Motorsport Engineering at SERC.

www.serc.ac.uk

Boyle Sports Does 3-Year Deal With Down Royal

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Boyle Sports Does 3-Year Deal With Down Royal

BOYLE Sports Extends Down Royal Partnership with Three-year Summer Festival Deal

• Bookie backs Ulster Derby and Ulster Oaks

Boyle Sports has strengthened its commitment to racing in Northern Ireland by signing a new three-year extension to sponsor the popular Summer Festival of Racing at Down Royal Racecourse.

The agreement will see Ireland’s largest independent bookmaker continue its association with one of the most vibrant fixtures in the racing calendar, with this year’s festival set to take place on June 19th and 20th, attracting racegoers from across the region and beyond.

Known for its colourful atmosphere, competitive racing and style-led social scene, the Summer Festival of Racing remains a highlight of the summer sporting and social calendar.

Emma Meehan-McCoy, Chief Executive of Down Royal Racecourse and Brian O’Keeffe, Media Relations Manager for BOYLE Sports. (Photo: PEYE).

As part of the renewed partnership, BOYLE Sports will retain exclusive naming rights to the meeting’s feature contests, The Ulster Derby (Premier Handicap) and The Ulster Oaks, both of which take place on day two of the Festival and offer significant prize funds.

The bookmaker will also enjoy title sponsorship of the full race card at the ‘BOYLE Sports Summer Race Evening’ on May 29th, further underlining its investment in the local racing scene.

Brian O’Keeffe, Media Relations Manager for BOYLE Sports, said: “We’re delighted to extend our partnership with Down Royal Racecourse and we look forward to playing our part in the continued success of the Summer Festival of Racing.

“Horse racing is a sport we are deeply passionate about, and this agreement reflects our continued dedication to supporting the sport in Northern Ireland.”

Emma Meehan-McCoy, Chief Executive of Down Royal Racecourse, added: “Partnerships like this play a key role in supporting the continued growth and success of racing, and we are thrilled to have BOYLE Sports extend their support of the Summer Festival of Racing.

“From racing fans to fashion enthusiasts, it remains one of the standout occasions in our calendar, and we look forward to welcoming visitors for another fantastic weekend of competitive racing and memorable entertainment this summer.”

For full details on the BOYLE Sports Summer Festival of Racing at Down Royal, or to book tickets, please visit:

Down Royal website.

About BOYLE Sports

BOYLE Sports is an international sports betting and gaming company, with an extensive online business and retail portfolio.

Founded by John Boyle in 1982, the Irish family-owned firm has grown to become Ireland’s largest independently owned bookmaker and has over 390 shops across Ireland and the UK.

Its Head Office is located on the outskirts of Dundalk in the Republic of Ireland, and the company currently employs over 2,700 employees across Ireland, the UK and Gibraltar.

BOYLE Sports is a huge supporter of horse racing and reaffirms its commitment to the sport through major race sponsorships, including the prestigious BOYLE Sports Irish Grand National, which offers the largest prize pot of any race on the Irish National Hunt calendar.

About Down Royal Racecourse

Down Royal Racecourse is one of Ireland’s leading racecourses and a premier sporting and entertainment venue in Northern Ireland.

Located just outside Lisburn, Down Royal hosts a year-round calendar of top-class National Hunt and Flat racing fixtures.

Renowned for combining competitive racing with exceptional hospitality, style and social occasions, Down Royal attracts thousands of racegoers each year and plays an important role in the region’s sporting and tourism landscape.

In addition to race days, the venue also serves as a leading destination for corporate events, conferences, weddings and private functions.

Dementia Awareness Training Announced

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Dementia Awareness Training Announced

First regional dementia awareness training is announced

A dementia awareness eLearning programme is now available for all Health & Social Care staff across Northern Ireland.

The training, which is being formally launched on Dementia Action Week, is also open to those working within both the independent and community & voluntary sectors (C&V) who are in contact with service users with dementia.

One elderly person in every three now dies due to the effects of dementia.

The Downe Hospital staff along with other health centres and the health-related community and voluntary sector may receive training under the Dementia awareness programme launched during Dementia Action Week.

It is the first regional dementia training of its kind and its aim is to increase awareness and deepen understanding of the experiences of those with the condition. The training provides guidance on supporting a person living with dementia.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said: “I am delighted to announce this training as we begin Dementia Action Week.

“My Department is committed to providing high-quality training for all staff, including for those working directly with people living with dementia across a range of care settings.

“Northern Ireland is estimated to have at least 25,000 people currently living with dementia, and that number is projected to rise to 43,000 people by 2040. Northern Ireland is also projected to have the highest prevalence dementia rate compared to its UK counterparts.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has welcomed the announcement of the dementia training programme at the start of Dementia Action Week.

“Ensuring that staff are equipped with the correct training to care appropriately for those with dementia is therefore of paramount importance.

“The eLearning awareness module offers guidance on how to effectively support individuals living with dementia and helps staff enhance the quality of care provided to them and their carers, whether in hospital, at home, or within care facilities.”

The programme was created by the HSC Clinical Education Centre (CEC) in collaboration with the Regional Dementia Project Board for Northern Ireland, Health and Social Care staff, people with dementia, the C&V sector, Queen’s University and Ulster University.  

The Department of Health has also funded the development of specialist dementia relationship training to enhance knowledge, change attitudes and inform practice of health and social care staff ensuring a person centered and rights-based approach with people living with dementia.

This is an e-learning resource developed through Queen’s University and supported by a number of stakeholders, including HSC Trusts and the C&V sector. 

***

The Regional Dementia Care Pathway 2018 sets out a service model to support the delivery of high-quality dementia care across Northern Ireland. The Department of Health established a Regional Dementia Project Board in May 2024 in order to bring a sharpened focus on improvement in dementia care and services across the region.

The Dementia Project Board has an Education, Training and Research workstream which is supporting the delivery of this training across the workforce and organisations. The content of the training programme will be kept under review to ensure it remains fit for purpose.

HSC staff can access the Dementia Awareness Training here.

Staff from the independent and C&V sectors can access it via https://cec.hscni.net/learningcontent/dementia-tier-1/

The dementia relationship training can be accessed here https://dementiarelationships.org.uk/

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