Howell's applauds a good '˜CAUSE' for Craigavon area

Pictured at a CAUSE support group meeting in Lurgan is Ruth Sloan of Howell's (left) and Anne Cunningham and Fiona Quinn of CAUSE. The Northern Ireland-based cake and biscuit brand surprised the group with treats for their meeting to highlight the work CAUSE does for the community.

Representatives from Howell’s, a division of Northern Ireland’s leading bakery Irwin’s, brought a variety of biscuits, cupcakes and cakes along with tea and coffee to share with those who benefit from CAUSE, a Northern Ireland-based charity that provides peer-led support to people who care for a friend or family member with a serious mental illness.

The visit to the Craigavon and Banbridge support group meeting was one of 10 visits Howell’s has planned across Northern Ireland.

Speaking ahead of the event, Colette Wilson, Marketing Manager, Irwin’s Bakery said:

“Winter in Northern Ireland can be cold and gloomy, so we thought February would be the perfect time to visit with members of CAUSE. All of Howell’s products are handmade in Northern Ireland, so the local community is of utmost importance to us. We wanted to support CAUSE as they help so many people across NI by providing practical and emotional support to carers supporting a loved one’s recovery from mental illness.

“Our Howell’s products are great with a cup of tea, so we thought sharing some treats and spending time with members of CAUSE would be a great way to bring some warming cheer and acknowledge the charity for the excellent work they do.”

Maire Grattan, CAUSE CEO, added:

“In the Lurgan, Craigavon and Banbridge area, we offer carers a range of support such as monthly support groups, one-to-one meetings with a Carer Advocate, Helpline access and workshops to learn more about mental illness and skills to help you in your caring role. Meeting with other carers by linking with a Carer Advocate or through a CAUSE group/workshop is very powerful and positive, realising that you are not alone. As a unique charity for families, partners and friends, run by carers for carers, connecting with Howell’s who value family and community is a great opportunity.

“We encourage anyone who is caring for a loved one suffering from a serious mental illness to contact CAUSE today as our Carer Advocates can provide some support, advice or simply offer a safe place for venting frustrations. To get in touch, please call our head office at 028 90650 650 or visit our website at www.cause.org.uk for more information.”