Trust invests in Carrickfergus mental health services
The Northern Trust has recently invested in its community mental health services, allowing for the development of new bespoke premises in Carrickfergus.
The newly opened Archway Community Mental Health Service, in the grounds of Carrickfergus Health Centre, offers assessment, diagnosis and treatment to individuals experiencing mental health problems.
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt visited Archway this week and welcomed the Trust’s strong commitment to improving mental health services for the local community.
Speaking afterwards, Minister Nesbitt, said: “Mental health is a deeply personal priority for me, and I am very pleased to see the clear commitment the Northern Trust has shown in improving services.
“The work carried out by local mental health teams makes a significant difference to the lives of so many people in our community every day. They play a vital role in helping people stay well and provide that all-important specialist care, enabling people to remain in the community while receiving treatment.”
Staff
Turning to the staff, Minister Nesbitt, said: “I am humbled by what I have seen today. You are so evidently focused on providing the best care possible to every individual that comes through your door. I want to pay tribute to you for your professionalism and dedication, a huge thank you for all that you do.”
The visit also enabled discussion on the ongoing priorities for strengthening mental health services in the Northern Trust area.
Dr Petra Corr, Director of Mental Health, Learning Disability and Psychological Services in the Trust, said: “We very much welcome the Minister’s visit to our community services in Carrickfergus as it provided an opportunity to discuss our wider priorities for mental health services, while also showcasing our new and improved facilities.
“Creating welcoming, safe and accessible spaces is essential to meeting the needs of people using community mental health services, and plays a vital role in supporting recovery, dignity and wellbeing. The bespoke nature of this development allowed us to achieve this. We now have specially designed rooms available that enables the team to deliver therapeutic interventions, complete assessments and provide reviews.
“The development of Archway has also allowed us to bring our teams together on a single site, having being previously based at Whiteabbey and Carrickfergus. Bringing services under one roof within Carrickfergus, not only supports staff to work more collaboratively, but ultimately improves accessibility and the experience for those using our services.”
29th January 2026
