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Freedom Project marks World Mental Health Day after supporting almost 600 people across the North West
The Freedom Project, delivered by Extern, celebrated its close at the Guildhall in Derry/Londonderry after two years of helping people affected by trauma to build resilience, connection and wellbeing.
Participants, Community Champions, volunteers, delivery partners and funders gathered in the Main Hall on Saturday 10 October to mark the end of The Freedom Project – Journey of Hope. The date was chosen to coincide with World Mental Health Day.
Beyond the target
Launched in August 2024, the project set out to work with 520 people. Over two years it reached almost 600, including people affected by the intergenerational trauma left by the Troubles, supporting them on their own journeys of recovery, resilience and improved mental health.
The project created safe, supportive spaces where people could build connections and confidence. Its work covered trauma-informed support, peer support, self-advocacy, coping strategies and reducing isolation, with a strong emphasis on cross-community engagement.
A different way in
Creative and holistic approaches were central to the project. Participants took part in complementary therapies, creative wellness activities and mindfulness, giving them a route into their own wellbeing that felt different from traditional services. Working with a wide range of community and delivery partners, the project reached people who often face barriers to accessing mental health support.
"The fact that almost 600 people chose to be part of the project reflects the need for this kind of support and the trust people placed in us"
Celebrating at the Guildhall
Saturday’s event reflected that approach. After hearing about the project’s journey and achievements from the team and participants, guests took part in a guided breathwork session with Carol-Anne, an immersive sound bath with Michelle and NADA ear acupuncture tasters, before a celebration lunch.
Sharon Smith, Project Manager of the Freedom Project at Extern, said:
“Over the past two years we’ve had the privilege of walking alongside people on their individual journeys of recovery, confidence-building and wellbeing. We’ve seen friendships develop, communities strengthen and people discover approaches that helped them feel safer, more connected and more hopeful. The fact that almost 600 people chose to be part of the project reflects the need for this kind of support and the trust people placed in us. We’re hugely grateful to PEACEPLUS, the SEUPB and Derry City and Strabane District Council, along with our delivery partners, Community Champions and volunteers, for making it possible.”
The Freedom Project was supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), and funded through Derry City and Strabane District Council’s PEACEPLUS Theme 1.1 Local Action Plan.