Local Projects

AFIA (Away from it all holidays) Life can be very stressful for many families. Through the Away From it All (AFIA) project Connor Diocese provides short breaks for families in need of time away from everyday life. Clergy and social workers can nominate suitable families.

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MU members volunteer in the Child Contact Centres within the diocese. Contact Centres are safe and welcoming places where separated parents can meet with their children.

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Patients admitted to hospital in an emergency situation find the wash bags prepared by our members very useful. Comfort packs are also supplied to relatives of patients in palliative care. These packs are also available to Women’s Refuge centres and the Rowan Centre at Antrim Area Hospital.

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Sealable bags containing colouring or puzzle books and felt tips, crayons or colouring pencils provide support for older children attending A&E departments or paediatric wards. 

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Neonatal wards in local hospitals appreciate the many knitted/crochet garments, sheets and snugglies sewn for the little cribs. Knitted Comfort Teddies help support young children in A&E departments or paediatric wards.  Fiddle muffs or blankets also give comfort to patients suffering from dementia. 

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Branch members also volunteer in local primary school with assisted reading.

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Many branches support their local and parish tots groups and creche facilities.