Long Term Health Conditions

Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s Society

Alzheimer’s Society is an organisation which works to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
30 Skegoneill, Balfast, BT15 3JL
Tel: 028 9066 4100
Email: midulster@alzheimers.org 
For more information go to www.alzheimers.org.uk/northernireland/

Dementia Navigator Service

Support for people with Dementia and their families to navigate and access services in the NHSCT and Community & Voluntary sector.
Location: Antrim
Email:louise.mulholland@northerntrust.hscni.net

Arthritis

Versus Arthritis (previously Arthritis Care NI)

Versus Arthritis has over 20 local branches and groups across Northern Ireland providing support and encouragement for their members through a range of activities and social events. They offer the opportunity to meet other people in a similar situation, share experiences and build friendships.

The Cookstown Versus Arthritis Group now meet at Liberty Church BT80 8AX
1st Monday of every month at 1.30 pm

Meadowbank Recreation Centre, Ballyronan Road, Magherafelt, BT45 6EW
Last Wednesday of month from 8-10pm
Helpline tel: 0800 5200 520
Tel: 028 9078 2940
Email: NIOffice@versusarthritis.org www.facebook.com/NorthernIrelandVersusArthritis
twitter.com/NIVArthritis
Versus arthritis

Cancer

Action Cancer – Appointments Service

Action Cancer is Northern Ireland’s leading, local cancer charity. Our mission is to save lives and support local people through cancer awareness, prevention, detection and support. Breast Screening, MOT Health checks, Support, Therapeutic Services, Counselling or Complementary Therapy. Book appointments at a location near you by telephone or online.
Location: various locations throughout the Northern Trust
Tel: 028 9080 3344
Email: info@actioncancer.org
Appointments Action Cancer

Bowel Cancer UK

Tel: 020 8973 0011

Cancer Choices, Donaghmore

At our dedicated holistic healing centre in Ivy Cottage, Cancer Choices offer a range of services to anyone who has been affected by Cancer within Northern Ireland. Patients, family members and carers can be assured they will be treated with dignity and respect by our experienced team. Cancer Choices Information and Support Centre was established in 2004 as an independent, patient-led organisation supporting people affected by Cancer wherever they may be. Please feel free to contact us to find out how we can help.
Ivy Cottage, 9 Main Street, Donaghmore, Dungannon BT70 3ES
Tel: 028 8776 9251 Mobile: 077 9393 7096
Email: office@cancerchoices.org.uk

Charis Cancer Care

CHARIS Integrated Cancer Care support men and women affected by cancer at every stage of their journey. We also assist and support the families and supporters of those living with cancer or any family member bereaved by cancer, throughout Northern Ireland.  We work in conjunction with clinical treatments for cancer and our comfortable treatment rooms are purpose-designed for the delivery of complementary therapies by trained practitioners free of charge.
Individual and group therapies are available.
Location: 163 Lough Fea Road, Cookstown BT80 9TU
Tel: 028 8676 9217
Email: info@chariscancercare.org
For more information go to Cancer support

Cancer Focus Patient Support

Cancer Focus Northern Ireland is here to help you, your family and carers when you’re affected by cancer. We have a wide range of one-to-one and group patient support services to help you. Our services include counselling, art therapy, a bra-fitting service, family support and much more.
Tel: 0800 783 3339
Email: care@cancerfocusni.org
For more information go to Cancer Focus NI

Cancer Survivorship Directory

A directory of support for those living with cancer, their carers’ and families. Directory of cancer support services in the northern health and social care trust area.
For more information go to Living with cancer

Lilac Support Services (Life is for Living after Cancer)

A cancer charity which helps those affected by cancer with the things many overlook; hospital transport, befriending, bra fitting and complementary therapy.
Location: 2nd Floor Loy Buildings, 18 Loy Street, Cookstown, BT80 8PE
Tel: 028 8676 6866
Email: info@lilaccancer.org
For more information go to Lilac Cancer

Cancer Survivorship Directory

A directory of support for those living with cancer, their carers’ and families. Directory of cancer support services in the northern health and social care trust area.
For more information go to www.survivorship.cancerni.net

Macmillan Cancer Support

At Macmillan, we know how a cancer diagnosis can affect everything. So we’re here to support you and help you take back some control in your life. From help with money worries and advice about work, to someone who’ll listen if you just want to talk, we’re here. Services in this area include a volunteer service, helpline, welfare rights, information and support, complimentary therapy, meal time companions.
Helpline: 0808 808 0000
Tel: 028 9442 4394
For more information go to Macmillan.org.uk

Marie Curie

Marie Curie Helper Service

The Marie Curie Helper service is provided by trained volunteers who visit people in their homes offering companionship and support for up to three hours each week, all completely free of charge.
Our service aims to fill the gap in meeting the emotional support needs of people with a terminal illness, and those of their carers. It also enables carers to cope better and continue with their caring role.
Tel: 0845 302 4851
Email: NIhelper@mariecurie.org.uk
For more information go to mariecurie.org.uk

Marie Curie Nursing Service

Marie Curie Nurses and Health Care Assistants provide nursing care and support for people in their own homes. They are available 24 hours of the day, seven days a week. They work closely with the district nurse with the aim of providing the care that is right for you when you need it most. Each visit may vary in length based on individual care requirements.
Tel: 0800 716 146
Tel: 028 2566 3500 (Out of Hours Nursing Service)
For more information go to mariecurie.org.uk

NHSCT Cancer Services Website

Website for those living with cancer, their carer’s and families.
Cancer Services

Rosie’s Trust (helping to look after pets)

Volunteer led service, aiming to protect and maintain the relationship between people and their pets when that relationship is under threat due to the owner’s terminal illness, treatment for cancer, or elderly living with disability.
Volunteers visit the pet owner’s home to carry out day to day tasks that owner is no longer able to carry out. Service provided in beneficiary’s own home.  Operating 356 days per year.  Implementing a new way of work but still operating as usual.
Tel: 077 2120 4061
Email: mail@rosiestrust.org
www.facebook.com/rosiestrust
For more information go to www.rosiestrust.org/

Chest, Heart and Stroke

British Heart Foundation

The British Heart Foundation seeks to support and help those suffering from heart disease.
Tel: 028 9024 5838
Helpline Tel: 030 0330 3311
For more information go to www.bhf.org.uk/

Mid Ulster Stroke Support Groups

Voluntary groups provide social peer support and provide reliable information on stroke. They also raise awareness of stroke in local communities and may support our charity in campaigning for better stroke services, as well as helping to raise funds to support our charity in its work.
Cookstown
Tel: 079 5804 8063
Email: janice.kirkpatrick@stroke.org.uk
For more information go to www.stroke.org.uk/
www.facebook.com/TheStrokeAssociation

NI Chest Heart and Stroke

NI Chest Heart and Stroke Services

NI Chest Heart and Stroke seeks to help those with chest, heart and stroke illnesses through a number of services such as Care Services, Support Groups, Health Promotion, Information and Advice.
Tel: 028 9032 0184
For more information go to https://nichs.org.uk/

Stroke Family Support. To access any of our services, a Family Support coordinator will meet with service users and their families to discuss support, signpost and offer help.

Weekly Stroke Activity Groups providing peer support for those affected by stroke. At the moment these operate in Ballymena, Coleraine, Carrickfergus, Limavady, Londonderry and Cookstown.

Offers practical and emotional support and advice for people living with the long term consequences of stroke. A programme of activities are in place such as information and advice on the effects of stroke, secondary prevention and health education, peer support, practical and emotional support and information and signposting to services.
Cookstown Leisure Centre, 78 Fountain Road, Cookstown BT80 8QF
Thursdays 10.00 am to 12.00 noon
Groups normally meet weekly (except July and August)

PREP which is weekly Physiotherapist led exercise and education sessions. These run in 6 weekly cycles and clients can access up to 12 weeks of this programme. They currently operate in Antrim, Londonderry and Coleraine.

Respiratory Services

Offers practical and emotional support and advice for people living with long term lung disease, e.g. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema. A programme of activities is in place to meet these objectives including secondary prevention and health education as well as peer support.

Currently we have monthly “Breathing Better” groups that meet in Magherafelt and Newtownabbey with more in the pipeline.

Cardiac Rehab Area, Old Ward 5, Thompson House, Mid Ulster Hospital, Magherafelt
3rd Wednesday of each month at 11.30 am
Tel: 079 1204 6173

Cardiac Services

We currently have support groups that meet in Limavady, Londonderry and at the Causeway Hospital.
Mid Ulster Adult Centre, Hospital Road, Magherafelt
1st Thursday of each month at 10am
Tel: 028 7137 7222

“Taking Control”

We offer a “Taking Control” programme. This is a 6 week self-management programme. This is open to anyone with a Respiratory condition, Cardiac Condition or anyone who has had a stroke.

This programme is accredited by Stanford University and is rolled out across all of NI.
Tel: 078 1334 5214 (Stephanie Prince)
Email: sprince@nichs.org.uk

Carers Support

There will be a new carers support programme called “Taking Care” launched in 2019
For now anyone in the Northern Trust area that is interested to know more or refer into our services
Tel: 077 1484 4209 (Gillian Allen)
Email: gallen@nichs.org.uk

Stroke Association

The Stroke Association provide a range of support services across the Northern HSC Trust to help people affected by stroke make the best recovery possible.

Stroke Support Service for stroke survivors, family members and carers – The Stroke Association offer practical advice, essential information and one-to-one emotional support to help stroke survivors make the best recovery possible.

Speech & Language Therapy Programmes – The Stroke Association offer Speech & Language Therapy Communications Plus Programmes for stroke survivors with communication difficulties, in various locations across the Northern Trust.

Stroke Association Voluntary Groups – The Stroke Association run local support groups on a weekly basis for stroke survivors in Ballymena, Coleraine, Cookstown, Newtownabbey and Toome.

Stroke Support Groups – Mid Ulster

Voluntary groups provide social peer support and provide reliable information on stroke. They also raise awareness of stroke in local communities and may support our charity in campaigning for better stroke services, as well as helping to raise funds to support our charity in its work.
Tuesdays 10am- 12 noon in First Cookstown Presbyterian Church Hall, 27 Fairhill Road, Cookstown BT80 8AG
Tel: 028 9050 8029
Email: janicekirkpatrick@stroke.org.uk
www.facebook.com/TheStrokeAssociation
Tel: 028 9050 8020
Email: ni@stroke.org.uk
For more information go to www.stroke.org.uk
www.facebook.com/TheStrokeAssociation

Stroke Helpline – 0303 3033 100 (Local charges apply)

For information, guidance and advice if you have been affected by stroke. The Helpline is open: Mon, Thurs & Fri: 9am-5pm; Tues & Wed: 8am-6pm; Sat: 10am-1pm
Tel: 028 9050 8020
Email: mailto:helpline@stroke.org.uk or ni@stroke.org.uk
www.stroke.org.uk   www.facebook.com/TheStrokeAssociation

Stroke Association and Cruse Beyond Words Project

Beyond Words is a partnership project between Cruse and the Stroke Association. It will provide a range of bereavement services for: People over 60 Stroke survivors and their carers and those living in sheltered accommodation.
Project Coordinator: Sharon Millar 079 4727 3767
Tel: 028 9050 8020

Depression

AWARE

A voluntary organisation providing support and information to those affected by depressive illnesses across Northern Ireland.

Tel: 028 9035 7820   Helpline: 084 5120 2961
Email: info@awareni.org
For more information go to www.aware-ni.org/

Diabetes

Diabetes Education (DESMOND Programme)

Diabetes group education for those newly diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes or has had Type 2 Diabetes for 1 year or more. We welcome all those motivated to better self-manage their Diabetes alongside diet, medication and/or insulin (if applicable).

The service is delivered at Mid Ulster Hospital (Tuesdays and/or Wednesdays) by registered health care professionals with specialist knowledge in Diabetes.

A carer, partner or friend is also welcome.

DESMOND Programme – Self Care Team, Northern Health and Social Care Trust

Mental Health Building no 5, Route Site, 8E Coleraine Road, Ballymoney BT53 6BP
Tel: 028 276 61479
Email: DesmondDiabetesCourse@northerntrust.hscni.net

Diabetes UK

Diabetes UK is a charity which aims to support people living with diabetes.
Tel: 028 9066 6646
For more information go to www.diabetes.org.uk/

Epilepsy

Epilepsy Action

Epilepsy Action Northern Ireland raises awareness and increases understanding of epilepsy, Lobbies and campaigns for a better future for people with epilepsy. Supports people through our network of volunteers, branches and groups. Organises information events for both people living with epilepsy and health professionals. Organises and supports local fundraising events. Epilepsy Action Northern Ireland provides epilepsy awareness training sessions to groups who want to learn more about epilepsy. These include private employers, healthcare and service providers and schools.
Tel: 028 9063 4942
Email: cwatson@epilepsy.org.uk
For more information go to www.epilepsy.org.uk/

Eyes and Ears

RNID

We offer information about deafness, hearing loss and tinnitus as well as local support. We provide local Hearing Aid User Support Sessions in association with the Northern Trust at various locations where NHS hearing aid users can receive free one to one support with hearing aids.

We also provide one to one support for people living with tinnitus, support getting and retaining employment and information and advice for employers.

We can provide information on face coverings and exemptions, and new workplace measures which present challenges for people who are deaf or have hearing loss.

Tel: 028 9023 9619
Email: information.nireland@rnid.org.uk
For more information go to www.rnid.org.uk

Deafblind NI

Deafblind NI supports people who have any level of sight and hearing loss to live the lives they want. Living with deafblindness can be frightening and isolating, but our team of experts is here to reassure, advise or to simply be someone to talk to. Our services include remote befriending and social groups, wellbeing and emotional support services, support with digital technology, a free helpline and much more!

Tel: 0800 132320
Text: 07903572885
Email: info@deafblind.org.uk
Text relay: 18001 then 0800 132320
Facetime: helpline.dbuk@deafblind.org.uk (Not BSL)
BSL video relay: www.deafblind.org.uk/bsl

RNIB Northern Ireland

RNIB (Royal National Institute of the Blind) in Northern Ireland provides people recently diagnosed with loss of sight with support to help them adapt to difficult circumstances, retain confidence and quickly regain their independence. They have a number of eye clinic liaison officers.
If you would like to speak to someone from the RNIB eye health information team or have any queries about your sight contact RNIB helpline.
Tel Magherafelt / Cookstown: 028 9032 9373
Mobile: 077 1006 6251
Helpline Tel: 030 3123 9999
For more information go to www.rnib.org.uk

DeafBlind UK (sight and hearing loss)

We support people with combined sight and hearing loss to live the lives they want.

Whether you need some support to get back on your feet after a diagnosis, a helping hand to help you do the things you love, someone to turn to when you’re feeling low or some information, advice and guidance, we’re here to help.

Losing your sight and hearing can be frightening. Our team of experts is here every step of the way to show you life beyond sight and hearing loss.

We provide Awareness Talks, Befriending, Care at Home, specialist Information, Advice and support, Digital Inclusion, Holidays and Social Groups

Tel: 079 5000 8870
For more information go to www.deafblind.org.uk/

Fibromyalgia Support

Fibromyalgia Support NI

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain illness characterised by widespread aches, pain and stiffness, soft tissue tenderness, general fatigue and sleep disturbances. Fibromyalgia patients experience a range of symptoms of varying intensities that wax and wane over time. Within Northern Ireland, it is estimated up to 3% of the population potentially suffer from the condition.

Fibromyalgia Support N. Ireland (FMSNI) is a non-profit making organisation dedicated to providing help and support to Fibromyalgia sufferers and those who care for them. Our mission is to provide an organisation where those with FM can find understanding, knowledge, support and practical help in fighting the disease.

Our aims are to:

• Support those with FM, their carers, family and friends
• To provide up to date information on the condition, research protocols and other relevant material
• To inform all relevant parties of the difficulties and issues faced by those with FM.

FMSNI, The Vine Centre, 193 Crumlin Road, Belfast BT14 7DX
Tel: 028 9035 5655 (10.30am – 4.00pm Mon-Fri) Magherafelt Support Group: 078 8424 0722
Email: Info@fmsni.org.uk
For more information go to www.fmsni.org.uk or www.facebook.com/FMSNI

Huntington’s Disease

Huntington’s Disease Association NI

HDANI is an independent charity providing advice, information, support and opportunities to connect for people impacted by Huntington’s Disease as patients, carers and family members including children and young adults.

HDANI includes a small team of home-based, part-time support workers who provide telephone, online and face to face emotional and practical support, act as advocates for those with limited capacity and facilitate support groups and events.

HD training and resources available for health and social care professionals working with Huntington’s Disease families.

All Health Trust areas covered and there is no age criteria. Self-referrals are accepted. The service operates Monday to Friday 9-5pm with support groups taking place monthly in Limavady, Omagh, Armagh and Belfast.

Tel: 079 8284 3907
Email: info@hdani.org.uk
For more information go to hdani or www.facebook.com/HDANorthernIreland/

Motor Neurone Disease

Motor Neurone Disease Association NI

Advice, Support and Information for those suffering from MND and their families.
Tel: 074 3483 9842
Email mndni@hotmail.co.uk
For more information go to www.mndani.com

MS Society

We are Northern Ireland’s leading charity dedicated to beating MS.
We provide support and services to people affected by MS including advice, counselling, physiotherapy and financial support. We raise awareness of MS and make MS a priority at political level.
Tel: 028 9080 2802
Email: nireception@mssociety.org.uk

Cookstown Multiple Sclerosis Help and Support Group

If you are diagnosed with MS come and join us.  Let us face the future together, don’t think twice.
Tel: Denise 028 8676 6146 or John 077 0624 9349
Email: info@cookstownms.org.uk
Cookstown Multiple Sclerosis Help and Support Group

MSS Mid-Ulster Group

The group provides a Reflexology and Massage Service to people in the area who have MS, at a cost of £10 per monthly treatment. MS-Experienced, fully qualified therapists. Therapies may be available in your home. If you would like to be added to the list of clients or want to find out more, please contact Margaret.
Tel: 078 5609 7917 (group mobile)
Email: midulster@mssociety.org.uk
For more information go to www.mssociety.org.uk/

Parkinson’s UK

Our Parkinson’s local advisers provide one-to-one information and support to people with Parkinson’s, their families and carer’s. This includes helping people understand the impact of their condition and their rights, benefits advice and accessing local support and services.
Tel: 0844 225 9823
Email: mmcwilliams@parkinsons.org.uk

For more information go to www.parkinsons.org.uk

For more information about your local area, please contact Eugene O’Goan, Locality Community Navigator:  Tel: 078 1419 6935 or email: communitynavigator.mu@ageni.org

This list is intended to act as a guide to support services available for people living in Mid Ulster Locality area.  Inclusion is not exhaustive and does not necessarily constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation of that organisation or service.

If you are aware of organisations/community groups that would like to be included in this directory (free of charge), please contact the community navigator.