Together at the Castle Returns to Mallow for Sixth Year

HSE South West has confirmed that "Together at the Castle", the mental health and wellbeing day, will return to Mallow Castle on Sunday, 6 September 2026, running from 1pm to 5pm.

Now in its sixth year, the free event aims to foster a sense of community and raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing support services available locally. It is open to all and is delivered in partnership with Mallow Chamber of Commerce, Cork County Council, Cork Mental Health Foundation, Avondhu Blackwater Partnership, See Change, SHINE and An Garda Síochána.

Up to 50 local and regional community groups and organisations will take part, offering entertainment, recreational activities, workshops and informational spaces. There will be activities for children, along with a range of food and drink options.

Councillor Bernard Moynihan, Mayor of the County of Cork, said:

"Cork County Council is proud to support this important event which highlights the diverse range of wellbeing supports that are available and promotes positive mental health. We extend our sincere thanks to HSE South West and Mallow Chamber for partnering with us to bring this wonderful event to North Cork. This year, the working group have tried hard to have something there for everyone, of all ages, therefore we are delighted to welcome all the new activities, services and food stalls."

Dr Andy Phillips, Regional Executive Officer, HSE South West, said:

"I always enjoy attending this event every year in Mallow, as it's such a fantastic example of collaboration and true community spirit. It's a joyful day, full of energy, positivity and fun, but also succeeds at ensuring that people know there is help and support available locally to anyone who may need it. It's a one-stop-shop that promotes mental health and wellbeing in a most accessible way."

Martin Ryan, HSE South West Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention, commented:

"We all have responsibility to encourage people to take the often-hardest step to seek help. Every year I am blown away by the continued partnership approach by the business community, Cork County Council and other main agencies working together to ensure a great day for all. This year, we are looking at expanding the idea of wellbeing to make sure that this event is an inclusive [sic] as possible."

Joyce Good Hammond, President of Mallow Chamber of Commerce, added:

"Our primary focus is to create awareness and highlight mental health supports, information and education for people from all walks of life. This event, which was initiated by our previous president, Sharon Cregg, has become an established institution that has made great strides in bringing together our local community, and connecting services and people in an accessible way. We are delighted that Sharon will continue to spearhead this initiative with the same commitment and drive that has made this event the success it is."

Brendan McCarthy, CEO, Cork Mental Health Foundation, said:

"We in Cork Mental Health Foundation are delighted to be part of the organising committee for this amazing event. We have worked collectively to ensure that this event offers a practical and positive approach to mental health and wellbeing in the local community. With the participation of up to 50 services, attendees will find something useful to engage with; or gain insight into seeking help. Our goal is to promote hope and recovery within our communities."

Valerie Murphy, CEO of Avondhu Blackwater Partnership, added:

"Avondhu Blackwater Partnership works closely with all stakeholders, statutory and voluntary, in promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. We support many people throughout the North Cork region and provide help through our Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme. We look forward to continuing this collaboration in Mallow Castle in September."

Together at the Castle aligns with See Change's national Green Ribbon campaign, which runs throughout September to raise awareness of mental health and challenge stigma.

Attendees will also be able to meet representatives from Shine, Headline, Samaritans and North Cork Social Prescribing, all of whom offer information, peer support and one-to-one services for people affected by mental health difficulties. Samaritans can be contacted any time, day or night, on 116 123 or by emailing jo@samaritans.ie.