Longford County Council is the first local authority to be awarded an Amber Flag by Pieta House

Initiative celebrates supportive and inclusive environments which promote mental wellbeing

Press Release: Monday, 16 December 2024 

Longford County Council is honoured to announce it is the first local authority in the country to be awarded a prestigious Amber Flag by Pieta House at a ceremony held in Áras an Chontae on Thursday, 5 December. 

Pieta's Amber Flag initiative celebrates communities that create healthy, supportive, and inclusive environments by promoting mental wellbeing. The Amber Flag initiative is in its 10th year. 529 flags were awarded in June 2024 to schools, clubs and organisations. 

Longford County Council promotes many mental health and wellbeing initiatives for employees throughout the year, ensuring they have access to the necessary resources and support. The initiatives include Mental Health Champion training, a See Change suicide prevention information drop-in event, and lunchtime exercise classes. There are also annual get-togethers for retired employees to help to maintain connections with one another and their colleagues who are still working in the local authority. 

Speaking at the ceremony, Pieta House Community Fundraising Officer for the west and north-west region, Joe Burke commended Longford County Council for its exemplary work and dedication to mental health awareness. 

Longford County Council Chief Executive Paddy Mahon said, "The Council, through our Health and Wellbeing team and with great support from all our employees, has made great strides in progressing initiatives to promote good mental health and wellbeing. We are very proud to become the first local authority to receive the Pieta Amber Flag and of what we have achieved so far. We look forward to new initiatives in 2025."

For the lastest news, follow Longford County Council on social media.