Spring Arts And Heritage Programme For Ards

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Spring Arts And Heritage Programme For Ards

Ards and North Down Unveil Vibrant Spring Arts and Heritage Programme

Ards and North Down Borough Council has launched its Spring Arts and Heritage Programme, offering an inspiring selection of events, concerts, exhibitions, and creative opportunities taking place across the Borough from January to April 2026.

Music takes centre stage this season with the return of the Ards International Guitar Festival in April.

Celebrating its 30th year, the packed programme features an exciting mix of gigs, free fringe activity, and a rock exhibition. 

Friday Night Live also returns to Ards Arts Centre with performances by The High Lonesome, Ben Reel and Glass Half Full. Ards CCÉ will open this year’s Music in the Chamber series at Bangor Castle on 19 February with a celebration of Irish traditional music.

Ards CCÉ will open this year’s Music in the Chamber series at Bangor Castle on Thursday 19 February with a celebration of Irish traditional music. (Photos courtesy of ANDBC).

Opera fans will enjoy Spring Solstice with NI Opera on 20 March, a beautifully curated lunchtime concert featuring much-loved seasonal favourites.

Theatre lovers have two standout productions to enjoy at Studio 1A Theatre in Bangor. On 10 April, Jak-In-The-Box Pop-Up Theatre presents The Bench, a warm and witty exploration of the quirky characters who pass through a local park, performed by Julie Kinsella and Maria Quinn.

Later in the month, on 29 April, Isosceles Theatre Company brings the powerful drama The Man Who Left the Titanic to the stage, revisiting the fateful 1912 voyage and examining the legacy of J. Bruce Ismay.

Families can look forward to the return of Young Aspects from 27 February to 1 March, offering workshops, storytelling sessions and author events designed to ignite young imaginations.

Writers will also be pleased to see the return of Aspects Festival Club, with monthly events offering writers and audiences alike the chance to share and celebrate new writing.

Those seeking a new hobby can choose from a wide range of creative classes and workshops in ceramics, illustration, calligraphy and more, delivered at Ards Arts Centre and venues throughout the Borough.

Joe McKeague and Kevin Mawdsley from Glass Half Full who will perform at Friday Night Live in Ards Arts Centre on Friday 27 March.

At North Down Museum, the ever-popular Arts Night at the Museum takes place on Friday 20 March, offering a free evening of hands-on creative activity for all ages.

The Little Historians workshop returns at Easter along with the ever-popular Easter Trail for children and families. The museum will also present new exhibitions exploring The Birth of Irish Motor Racing and Boat Building at Ballyholme.

Arts and Heritage Manager Emily Crawford added: “Our Spring programme is bursting with activity! From hands-on creative sessions to the Ards International Guitar Festival, Young Aspects, exhibitions, theatre and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

“Visit our website or pick up a guide to explore the full line-up.”

Online booking for all music and theatre events, as well as class and workshop enrolment, opens Thursday 11 December.

View the full Spring Programme and book at: 

andculture.org.uk/whats-on

£400,000 Investment For Commedagh Clinic

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£400,000 Investment For Commedagh Clinic

£400k investment as Newcastle’s Slieve Commedagh independent, family-owned dental practice braces for growth

• Newcastle practice trebles patient capacity following expansion and rebrand

At the foot of the Mourne Mountains, a long-established dental clinic on Newcastle’s Main Street has undergone a major transformation as part of a £400,000 investment supported by Ulster Bank.

The newly reimagined Slieve Commedagh Clinic, which was transformed over a 15-month period,  has long been a familiar fixture on Main Street in the seaside town, providing dental care to the local community for over 60 years.

Braced for growth: Ulster Bank business development manager Paul Reid pictured (centre) with Dr Philip Teggart and Sharon Mark-Teggart from Slieve Commedagh Clinic.

When Dr Philip Teggart took ownership in 2018 his vision was to continue that lasting legacy of patient care by providing a wraparound service that blends oral health with overall wellbeing – a purpose reflected in the clinic’s new name which is inspired by Slieve Commedagh (from the Irish Sliabh Coimhéideach, meaning “the guarding” or “watching” mountain).

With the bank’s support the clinic has trebled patient capacity, expanding from a single surgery to a modern, three-surgery space at street level.

The expanded clinic has also grown its range of services and created new roles across the team, including an additional dentist, dental therapist, and patient care support staff.

Ulster Bank business development manager Paul Reid said: “At Ulster Bank, we are proud of the impact that we have on communities and customers right across Northern Ireland.

“As well as providing direct access to financial services, our support for independent business owners, particularly those who provide essential community services, is an important part of how we’re helping enrich the local community and strengthen the local economy.

Ulster Bank business development manager Paul Reid pictured (centre) with Dr Philip Teggart and Sharon Mark-Teggart from Slieve Commedagh Clinic.

“Philip’s long-term plans for Slieve Commedagh Clinic is the perfect example of this in practice. We’re very pleased to provide the funding facility to not only sustain, but greatly enhance this important service.”

Dr Philip Teggart, owner and clinical director at Slieve Commedagh Clinic, said: “This investment allows us to continue the story of this much-loved clinic. Our focus has always been on creating a space that feels different.

“One that soothes, supports, and truly cares for every individual who walks through our door.

“With Ulster Bank’s support, we’ve been able to beautifully restore the ground floor of this Victorian townhouse and incorporate cutting-edge digital technology and systems to ensure that our treatments are precise, predictable, and delivered with genuine care and compassion for the members of our community.”

To learn more about Ulster Bank business banking, visit:

www.ulsterbank.co.uk.

To discover more about the clinic and its holistic approach, visit:

www.slievecommedaghclinic.com.

47 Main Street, Newcastle,

BT33 0AD.

  • +44 28 4344 3344Mobile

Ballykinlar Seniors Enjoy Event With Schoolkids

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Ballykinlar Seniors Enjoy Event With Schoolkids

Ballykinlar Intergenerational Christmas Event Brings Rural Seniors Together

Newry Mourne and Down District Council’s Slieve Croob District Electoral Area Forum joined forces with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and County Down Rural Community Network to deliver an intergenerational Christmas event on Sunday, 7 December at Ballykinlar GAC clubrooms.

The initiative aimed to support seniors living in rural and isolated areas by creating an opportunity for connection, community, and festive celebration.

Pupils from St Joseph’s Primary School, Tyrella, with some of the residents who attended the recent intergenerational event at Ballykinlar GAC, organised by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Slieve Croob District Electoral Area Forum

Over 60 people were treated to a hot Christmas dinner, prepared and served by members of Ballykinlar GAC, and enjoyed entertainment from musician, Finbarr Keaveney, as well as a festive performance from pupils at St Joseph’s Primary School, Tyrella.

The event brought together different generations, encouraging a sense of unity and shared celebration. The initiative also helped address loneliness by providing a safe and welcoming shared environment where Housing Executive tenants and the wider community can interact, strengthening community ties.

Pupils and staff from St Joseph’s Primary School, Tyrella, who sang at the recent intergenerational Christmas event at Ballykinlar GAC organised by Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s Slieve Croob District Electoral Area.
Entertainer Finbar Keaveney with members of Ballykinlar GAC and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Slieve Croob District Electoral Area Forum co-ordinator Priscilla McAlinden

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, attended the event and highlighted the importance of remembering those who may be socially isolated during the festive period.

Cllr Campbell said: “Christmas can be a joyous time for many, but it is also a very lonely time for others.

“It is vital that we continue to organise events like this, which bring people together and create opportunities for connection and support,” the Chairperson said.

Claire Crainey, Northern Ireland Housing Executive Area Manager, endorsed these sentiments.

“Loneliness and isolation are real challenges for many people in rural areas, particularly during the winter months. We were delighted to support this event and to work with local

St Joseph’s Primary School pupils in Tyrella singing out at the recent intergenerational Christmas event held at Ballykinlar GAC.

St Brigid’s PS In Downpatrick Is Top Of Class

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St Brigid’s PS In Downpatrick Is Top Of Class

Downpatrick primary school St Brigid’s received a top IQM award

Staff and pupils at St Brigid’s Primary School in Downpatrick have received an early Christmas present this year.

They have been awarded the prestigious Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) Inclusive School Award, along with recognition as a Centre of Excellence.

The award validates schools that demonstrate a genuine commitment to creating learning environments where every pupil, regardless of background, ability, or need, can truly thrive.

While several Northern Ireland schools have achieved IQM status, St Brigid’s distinction as both an Inclusive School Award holder and Centre of Excellence simultaneously positions it among a select group of educational pioneers in Ireland and across the UK.

Assessor Mr Cormac Ua Bruadair, who conducted the rigorous evaluation in June 2025, captured the essence of what makes St Brigid’s exceptional.

He said: “Saint Brigid’s Primary School serves as an example of excellence in nurturing a welcoming environment, where diversity is celebrated, and every individual is valued as part of an inclusive, diverse community”.

Pupils at St Brigid’sPrimary School in Downpatrick along with staff are celebrating have been awarded IQM status with distinction as both being Inclusive School Award holder and a Centre of Excellence. Included are Vice Principal Kelly Rice and Principal Delores Miller. (Photo courtesy of St Brigid’s PS).

His observations paint a picture of a school where inclusion isn’t merely policy – it’s the very fabric of daily life.

The evidence of transformational leadership is everywhere. “The passion and energy witnessed from the school leadership has undoubtably transferred to the rest of the school team.

“The Principal and Deputy Principal, lead from a strong belief in inclusion and that every child must receive the best possible chance in life to thrive and realise their potential.

“Their approach is creative in their thinking, strategic in their decision-making and charismatic in their professionalism”.

Michael Crossan, Chair of the Board of Governors, said: “St Brigid’s Primary School has become far more than an educational institution… it has become a beacon of what is possible when a community commits to truly inclusive education with visionary leadership dedicated staff, supportive governors, engaged parents, and remarkably compassionate pupils.

“St Brigid’s has created something truly special… it is a place where every child genuinely can learn and grow together.

“As the school motto promises: “Learning and Growing Together”, and St Brigid’s Primary School is living proof that when a community commits to inclusion, extraordinary things happen.”

How to Streamline Day-to-Day IT Tasks

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How to Streamline Day-to-Day IT Tasks

If your business has a digital component, then the chance are that you have scope to make things simpler, more effective, and more efficient. This might involve a combination of outsourcing, automation, and procedural changes. Let’s take a look at where the easy wins are to be found.

Photo by Philipp Katzenberger on Unsplash

Standardise and Automate Routine Workflows

If your workers often find themselves performing the same simple tasks over and over again, then it might be that an automation platform can help. At the same time, you might find that by standardising your practices, you can eliminate friction within your organisation. Both of these things have the same theoretical result: your workers will be able to get things done more quickly, and more effectively.

Outsourcing can help for the same reason. If you have a managed firewall service in place, then your core workers will be able to focus on creative decisions that really require their input.

Improve Endpoint Management and Device Lifecycles

If you’re using hybrid employees, then it’s vital that you interact with them in a way that’s consistent and secure. But even if you aren’t, you’ll need to take security around your endpoints seriously. Make sure that your devices are configured and patched appropriately, and that you have a system in place for replacing old hardware.

When everything is consistent, you can smooth out the learning curve for your technical support, and make breaches less likely. There’s no need to make life more difficult for your team than it needs to be, and teams are more effective when they aren’t compelled to constantly learn new ways of doing things.

Strengthen Identity and Access Management (IAM)

The increasing prevalence of remote access means that identity controls are more important than ever. A principle of least privilege will ensure that no one user is granted more access than they need, which will help to limit the impact of a breach.

Multi-factor authentication, and other access-control-related improvements, can keep you secure while lowering your daily overheads. You’ll have fewer issues, and they’ll be resolved more easily, when you take this seriously. If one of your workers manages to compose a weak password, and it’s successfully guessed by a malicious actor, then having an additional factor required to log in might make things much harder for the would-be intruder.

Leverage Cloud Services for Efficiency and Simplification

Cloud-based services offer a number of advantages. They facilitate collaboration among remote teams, and reduce the need for onsite maintenance and large server-related overheads. You’ll need to keep an eye on government-issued advice when it comes to software as a service, however. This is a constantly evolving area of the digital economy, and new developments are always worth looking at.

Instagram Now Lets You Record 20-Minute Reels

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Instagram Now Lets You Record 20-Minute Reels

Instagram has rolled out a major set of updates to its Reels camera, giving creators new tools to shoot and edit videos directly inside the app. The upgrades were introduced on the platform’s @design account, which highlighted that the goal is to make filming more intuitive and remove the need for external editing apps.

Photo by Shutter Speed on Unsplash

A More Powerful Reels Camera

According to Instagram’s design team, the refreshed Reels camera responds to user requests for a simpler and more capable filming experience. The team notes that they have been working closely with product and research departments to improve usability, add creative controls, and reduce common frustrations during the editing process. These upgrades are especially valuable for Instagram influencers who rely on efficient in-app tools to produce consistent, high-quality content without jumping between multiple editing platforms.

Reels Can Now Be Recorded for Up to 20 Minutes

The most significant change is the extension of the maximum recording time. Users can now capture videos that run up to 20 minutes directly in the Reels camera. Instagram explains that this longer window opens the door to more detailed storytelling and reduces the need to record and stitch together multiple clips in external tools. The entire 20-minute recording can now be completed in one continuous in-app session.

New Editing Tools for Easier Workflow

In addition to longer recording time, Instagram has introduced several editing improvements designed to streamline the creation process. A new Undo button allows creators to remove the most recent clip in a multi-clip project without resetting the entire timeline. This update was added after extensive user feedback and is intended to make revisions less time-consuming.

Instagram has also refined its green screen feature to reduce flickering and create more stable background effects. The touch up function now includes an adjustable slider, giving users precise control over how much enhancement is applied. This prevents overly processed visuals and offers a more subtle, natural look.

Longer Reels Still Face Distribution Limits

Although creators now have the ability to record extended videos, Social Media Today notes that longer Reels may not always perform as well. Instagram has repeatedly stated that its recommendation system favors Reels under three minutes. Longer videos remain allowed, but they are less likely to be pushed widely across the platform since shorter clips tend to generate stronger engagement. Overall, the update represents a meaningful improvement for creators who prefer filming directly within the Instagram app. The combination of longer recording times, easier edits, and enhanced camera features offers more freedom while reducing reliance on third-party tools. Whether longer Reels become a common trend will depend on how creators balance extended storytelling with Instagram’s preference for short-form content.

Clarke Call For Old Town Branding In Newcastle

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Clarke Call For Old Town Branding In Newcastle

Cllr Willie Clarke Calls for “Old Town Newcastle” Branding and New Heritage Signage at Harbour

Mournes Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has urged Newry Mourne and Down District Council to formally brand Newcastle Harbour as the “Old Town” and to install new interpretation signage to highlight the area’s rich built heritage.

Councillor Clarke said the initiative would help both residents and visitors better understand the historical significance of the Harbour area, including its unique structures, archaeological features and cultural landmarks.

He said: “The Rock Pool is at the heart of the ‘Old Town’ Newcastle and plays a vital role in maintaining built heritage in this historical area.

Sinn Féin Mournes Councillor Willie Clarke, pictured at Fishermen’s Row, is calling on the ‘Old Town’ in Newcastle to be officially branded by Newry Mourne and Down District Council.

“There are only two of these ancient gems across the North, and they must be protected, restored and enjoyed by the local community.”

Cllr Clarke has specifically called for interpretation panels to be installed at the Black Rock garden overlooking the Harbour.

These would provide clear information on key sites of interest in the immediate area, including the two medieval fish traps, the Rock Pool outdoor swimming facility and the World War II watchtower.

“Interpretation panels are a valuable way to educate and inform visitors about the environment around them,” he added. “They can showcase natural history, archaeology and our built heritage in a way that is accessible and engaging.”

In addition to physical signage, Cllr Clarke is requesting that Council officers explore the development of a digital heritage app to support storytelling and visitor engagement. The proposed app would offer a narrated guide to the area’s historical assets, including:

•            Newcastle Harbour and the Watch House,

•. The Granite Trail,

•            Annesley Hall,

•            The 1843 Newcastle Fishing Disaster and Widows’ Row,

•            The former site of Donard Lodge,

•            The SS Great Britain anchor,

•            The Bloody Bridge.

Cllr Willie Clarke is calling for the Old Town in Newcastle to be recognised and promoted as a tourist destination of interest.

CompareNI.com Reveals High Cost Of Damage

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CompareNI.com Reveals High Cost Of Damage

Storm Bram could see house owners claims refused due to poor maintenance    

With Storm Bram set to batter Northern Ireland tomorrow, households are being warned they risk having their insurance policies cancelled or claims denied if they ignore important home maintenance tasks.

The UK has been buffeted by an unprecedented number of storms in recent years, with Storm Eowyn, one of the most powerful in recent memory, wreaking havoc back in January.

More frequent and severe weather events have led to a surge in property claims, as well as higher repair costs due to inflation and supply chain issues. This in turn has driven an increase in home insurance premiums.

During the first half of 2025 alone, claims for weather-related damage to people’s homes and possessions across the UK hit £424m.**

Stay safe: strong winds are already picking up for Storm Bram. (Photo: Jim Masson/Down News©).

And figures from home insurance experts at CompareNI.com show that in the five years up to 2024, Northern Ireland had the highest average cost in the UK for storm related damage claims at £1,500.

In comparison, regions such as South East and North West England – which are notoriously susceptible to flooding during heavy downpours – had average claims costs of £1104 and £800 respectively.

Research from the Association of British Insurers (ABI) shows that 25% of UK adults don’t know if their home is at risk of flooding and storm damage – and only 27% of those would know how to find out.***

With storm season now in full swing, CompareNI.com is warning households to take action to protect their properties from extreme weather by checking for damage and carrying out any essential maintenance.

Ian Wilson, home insurance expert and Managing Director of CompareNI.com said: “Extreme weather continues to play a significant role in the rising cost of home insurance, and with the UK experiencing more frequent and intense storms than ever before, it is vital that people read the terms and conditions of their home insurance policies to check that they have the right level of cover in place.

“With the cost-of-living crisis putting the squeeze on many household budgets, some people have cut back on repairing or refurbishing their properties.

However, putting off essential home maintenance tasks can be costly in the long run, as neglecting to keep the property in good condition could void home insurance.

“While insurance policies can cover accidental damage, providers will usually not pay out if the damage was down to poor maintenance on the policyholder’s part, leaving a hefty repair bill should the worst happen.”

One important maintenance task that property owners can carry out is to make sure their drains and gutters have been cleared of any potential blockages to prevent water damage.

Litter can be swept into drainage systems during storms and is a common cause of flooding, which can lead to significant property damage, while clogged gutters can cause water to leak into the home and cause damage to its roof or foundations.

A CompareNI.com survey found that littering is a major concern for many householders, with over two-thirds (68%) of respondents saying it is getting worse in their local area.

Homeowners should also check for any damage to their roof ahead of a storm, such as missing or cracked tiles that could be blown off by strong winds and allow water into their property.

Any loose garden furniture or flight risk items such trampolines or football nets should be secured, either by anchoring them down or storing them in a shed or garage. Fences and gates should also be firmly fixed in position, with extra support added if necessary.

CompareNI.com can help households across Northern Ireland compare and find savings on their home insurance. 

*https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/blog/2025/met-office-deep-dive-for-september-3

**https://www.abi.org.uk/news/news-articles/2025/8/one-in-four-remain-unaware-of-potential-flood-or-s…

***https://www.abi.org.uk/news/news-articles/2025/8/one-in-four-remain-unaware-of-potential-flood-or-s…

CompareNI Survey: Findings are based on a randomised survey of 800 respondents across NI during September 2025, which represents a margin of error of approximately 5% at a 95% confidence level.

Average claim cost for storm related damage

UK regionAverage claim cost 
Northern Ireland£1500
London£1260
East of England£1200
Wales£1150
South East England£1104
Scotland£1003
West Midlands£1000
South West England£1000
East Midlands£972
North East England£900
North West England£800
Yorkshire£700

Data collected from a sample of over 100,000 homeowners across the UK in the five years up to 2024.

Storm Bram Ready To Batter The North

Jim Masson
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Storm Bram Ready To Batter The North

Agencies ready to respond to Storm Bram as winds pick up

Multi-agency preparations are underway to respond to any impacts as a result of Storm Bram, following a Met Office yellow warning for strong winds.

The warning is valid on Tuesday 9 December from 9am to 9pm.

Gusts of around 50-60mph are possible fairly widely, and potentially in excess of 70mph in the most exposed areas, especially in the West.

The Department for Infrastructure’s roads and rivers teams have been checking and clearing road gullies and other drainage and infrastructure and have additional staff on standby to respond to incidents.

Monitoring of river levels and sea levels has been ongoing and will continue until the weather warning has elapsed. 

As a precautionary measure, Departmental staff are installing temporary flood defences ahead of a forecast tidal surge which will occur close to the time of the High Tide which is expected early on Tuesday afternoon.

The combination of these two occurrences has the potential to increase water levels in the River Lagan downstream of Stranmillis Weir.

When this is further combined with the high flows in the Lagan due to recent rain, engineers have taken the precautionary decision to proactively deploy some of the Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme temporary tidal defences between the Stranmillis Weir and the Lagan Weir to provide enhanced flood protection in the area.

Residents in Newcastle will be concerned once more as heavy rain and winds increase with Storm Bram just a day away. (Photos by Jim Masson/DownNews 2020).

And residents and business people in Downpatrick, Newcastle and Newry will be watching very carefully in case flood waters creep up in the afternoon or evening. Currently the River Quoile is running very high and flooding its banks in some places.

Regional Community Resilience Groups have also been advised of weather patterns and to make appropriate preparations.

The strong winds could lead to power cuts, damage to buildings, fallen trees, spray or large waves on exposed and vulnerable coastal areas, as well as disruption to travel including public transport, ferries and flights.

Due to the potential for large waves, flooding of coastal roads is also possible especially along the County Down coast and the worst of the wind is forecast from early afternoon into the evening rush hour. Outdoor Seasonal decorations may be vulnerable to the wind.

Traffic disruption is possible so please plan ahead, stay up to date with the latest weather and travel advice. Advice and information on the current weather warnings is available at: 

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/news/strong-winds-weather-warning-information-and-advice.

It may be necessary to close some roads or put temporary restrictions in place. 

The scene in Downpatrick in early November 2023 as the town centre flooded.

Road users are reminded to adhere to road signs and any temporary traffic lights. Remember to reduce your speed, stay well behind the vehicle in front, remain focused and always wear your seatbelt and never drive through flood water. 

Traffic information can be found at: TrafficWatch.

You can report an obstruction at: Report an obstruction on a road or street | nidirect or call the 24-hour number on 0300 200 7899.

To report incidents of flooding, please contact the flooding incident line on 0300 2000 100. Calls taken by the incident line staff are passed to the relevant responding Agency.

The power of water is often on show during a storm as waves crash against harbour walls, piers and cliffs. It looks spectacular but surges can easily sweep a person off their feet.

Severe flooding in Newry on Halloween 2023. (Photograph: Columba O’Hare/ Newry.ie)

All it takes is one wave to drag you out to sea – a dramatic photograph or selfie is not worth risking your life. If you are in trouble or see someone in difficulty at the coast, call 999 and ask for Coastguard.

NIE Networks is reminding the public to stay clear of any damaged electricity equipment and report it immediately to the Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643.  Members of the public should never approach a broken pole or electricity line.

Should customers experience a power cut they can check for updates at Powercheck NI (powercheck.nienetworks.co.uk) and report the fault online or call the NIE Networks Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643.

Translink advises passengers to check its Journey Planner or Translink social media channels in advance of travel, and to allow extra time for their journeys. 

Belfast City Council has advised that Victoria Park will be closed from 12noon tomorrow.  Any additional closures or disruption to services will be available on:

www.belfastcity.gov.uk/weather

Don’t Get Addicted To Painkillers

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Don’t Get Addicted To Painkillers

Addiction can affect anyone says Department of Health

Over-the-counter medication can be highly addictive, that is the message from the Department of Health.

Some over-the-counter medication, such as stronger combination painkillers containing a mixture of paracetamol or ibuprofen along with codeine or dihydrocodeine, can be highly addictive.

In 2024, there were round 10.4 million combination painkillers obtained by Community Pharmacies in Northern Ireland, which is a 6.9% increase on the previous year, showing the level of demand is increasing.

Northern Ireland’s Chief Pharmaceutical Officer, Cathy Harrison said: “Addiction can affect anyone, and often people may not even know they have an addiction.

Taking over-the-counter combination painkillers should be in the short-term, no longer than three days. If you are concerned about your relationship with these types of medication, speak to your pharmacist. They are there to help.”

Don’t get addicted to over-the-counter drugs says (l-r): Dr Lisa Byers, Senior Principal Pharmaceutical & Controlled Drugs Accountable Officer, DoH; Katherine Kidd, CPNI; Michael Main; Dr Joy Watson, Belfast Trust.

Michael Main, a 37-year-old man from Belfast, found himself addicted to over-the-counter medication, when he started using combination painkillers 12 years ago to treat a leg injury and migraines. 

At the height of his addiction, he was taking 64 tablets daily. He said: “I was down to four stone and I was afraid of losing my life. I knew I needed help, but I didn’t know where to turn.”

With many people not knowing they have an addiction, Belfast Trust Consultant Addictions Psychiatrist Dr Joy Watson wants to highlight the signs. Dr Watson, who is based in the Malone Place Addiction Services Clinic, said: “We are seeing more people crossing our door to seek support with addiction to over-the-counter medication.

“But there are many more people in our communities who don’t actually know they have an addiction.

“Addiction to these stronger combination painkillers can cause very serious health issues, including severe liver, kidney and stomach disease needing multiple surgeries and with some people ending up in Intensive Care Units (ICU). Sadly, some people have lost their lives. They can also cause issues in patient’s personal or work lives.

“The good news is, there is treatment available to substitute codeine and it is highly effective.

“The earlier you seek the help, the better for your health. If you are concerned about your relationship with over-the-counter medication, speak to your GP or pharmacist.”

Michael received support and started treatment. He said: “I went into hospital and had to get surgery twice. My consultants were able to direct me to addiction services, where I started a programme, which involved taking substitute medication.

“From then, I have made massive improvements – it’s like two different people. I put on four stone in a couple of months, feel great, I’m back to work and spending more time with my kids, I wish I had done it a long time ago.

“It is not your typical drug and so you don’t hear much about the help available. But it does exist – go and seek support, it is the first step and can help turn your life around.”

The Department of Health have been working closely with Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), to highlight the issues around addiction to these types of medication.

Recently, all Community Pharmacies and GP surgeries received leaflets and posters to highlight the issue to the public.

Katherine Kidd, Head of Professional Services at CPNI said: “Community pharmacists are medicines experts, and they can support patients to find out more about the over-the-counter medication they are taking or thinking of starting, including the potential side effects, to help encourage safe and appropriate use.

“If a patient has any queries or concerns about these types of medicines, I urge them to speak to their community pharmacist who can help support their appropriate use.”

You can also find further details of groups that can support you at:

www.drugsandalcoholni.info.

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