International Women’s Day 2025 Sees Newtownards Teachers Leading Mental Health Awareness in Education
In line with the theme of Accelerating Action for International Women’s Day 2025, leading Mental Health charity AWARE is celebrating four incredible women who are “Accelerating Action” in the mental health space, each making a meaningful impact within their local community.
Debbie Byrne and Julie Haugh, both teachers at Regent House School in Newtownards, are leading efforts to embed mental health awareness in education.
As heads of the school’s Mental Health and Bereavement Teams, they have seen first-hand the impact mental health challenges have on students.
“Mental health affects not just young people but also their families,” Julie said.
“We’ve seen pupils struggle with anxiety, loss of concentration, incomplete homework, declining results, and, in some cases, the inability to attend school. In the long term, these challenges can lead to social isolation and have lasting effects on their future careers, income, and even where they live.”
Recognising the need for greater support, pupils in the school’s Charity Committee chose to fundraise for AWARE NI, a locally run charity providing vital mental health and well-being programmes.
“AWARE NI supports not only schools but also universities and workplaces,” Debbie said. “We wanted to help expand their preventative programmes, making a difference not just for our pupils and families but also for the wider community, including parents in their careers.”
Their fundraising efforts have been met with enthusiasm from the school community. “Our Mood Matters Walk raised £1,700 in just one afternoon,” Julie explained. “We’re already planning next year’s event, with the possibility of involving older pupils as well.”
Debbie and Julie believe it is essential to equip students with the skills and knowledge to overcome these challenges, supported by a strong network and partnerships with organisations like AWARE NI. “More funding is needed to ensure support is available whenever it is needed most,” Debbie said.
By fostering safe spaces for open conversations, combatting stigma and creating opportunities for education surrounding mental health, Debbie and Julie embody the spirit of “Accelerating Action” this International Women’s Day.
Alongside AWARE NI, they are ensuring that more people can access the support and understanding they need.
AWARE was established in 1996 and so has been delivering mental health support services to local people for nearly 30 years. The charity delivers 24 mental health support groups across Northern Ireland in 21 physical locations and 3 online.
These groups provide a safe and supportive space for individuals facing mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Led by trained volunteers with lived experience, the groups provide a safe space to share experiences and foster solidarity within the community.
With a compassionate approach, the AWARE NI groups promote resilience and well-being among its members, serving as a beacon of hope in difficult times.
AWARE also provides a range of training programmes delivered in workplaces, community settings and schools that aim to build resilience and equip people with appropriate skills to manage their mental health.
Other services include email and telephone assistance, outreach activities and awareness campaigns.
AWARE NI depends on the generosity of Northern Ireland’s public and local businesses in continuing to deliver its essential mental health services.
Each support group costs £8,500 per year to run, making fundraising crucial to sustaining this vital community support.
To help meet these needs, the charity has planned a range of fundraising events throughout 2025, including the Giant Steps walk, exhilarating abseils, refreshing sea splashes, and engaging golf days.
For more information on all fundraising activities and the mental health support available, visit www.aware-ni.org.
Photo of Debbie Byrne and Julie Haugh:
“Regent House School teachers Debbie Byrne and Julie Haugh are leading efforts to embed mental health awareness in education, ensuring students receive the support they need.”
Photo of Debbie, Julie, and a selection of Regent House pupils:
“Debbie Byrne and Julie Haugh alongside Regent House School pupils, who have fundraised for AWARE NI to support vital mental health and well-being programmes in their community.”
