04/09/2026
Our Mental Health and Addiction Teams are hosting a number of powerful and inspiring exhibitions showcasing the creative expressions of Addiction, Mental Health and Recovery, with support and collaboration with numerous community and voluntary agencies.
Jamie Wallace Head of Service of Addiction Services has outlined that these exhibitions entitled ‘Unheard Voices – The Reality of Addiction, Mental Health and Recovery’ are unique to the Western Trust, free to attend and will be hosted across the Western Trust area over the coming months, in order to showcase that Recovery is possible, there is hope and to champion service user experience and peer support.
Brian Toner Consultant in Service User Experience, Adult Mental Health and Disability Services explained:
“We are planning to host exhibitions in Derry/Londonderry; Omagh and Enniskillen and would encourage everyone to participate in this unique exhibition. Whether you are at the beginning of your journey, in recovery, supporting someone you love, or reflective on experiences from the past – we would welcome your participation in our exhibition.”
Sharon McElroy Consultant Lead Psychologist explained:
“You can participate through a wide range of mediums including poetry, songwriting/rap; artwork; photography; written reflections or any other creative form that expresses your experience through additions, mental health and recovery.”
“The Exhibitions will take place across the Western Trust area on the following dates and times, and we would like to thank our council colleagues and our participating community and voluntary colleagues for their support and generosity in assisting these exhibitions:-
- Millennium Forum in collaboration with Arc Fitness Recovery in Motion conference, Derry/Londonderry on 9th September 2026 from 9.30am to 5pm
- Strule Arts Centre, Omagh on 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 6th October 2026 from 9.30am to 5pm
- Enniskillen Castle, Enniskillen from 09th to 13th October 2026 from 11am to 5pm
- Garden of Reflection, Derry/Londonderry from 14th to 20th October 2026 10am to 5pm
“This exhibition is about honesty, courage and connection and by sharing your stories creatively, we can increase understanding of addition, reduce stigma, spark important conversations and help others in our local community to feel less alone across the Western Trust area.
“We are encouraged by the incredible responses we have received so far and would love to include everyone’s voices. Submissions can be anonymous or shared with your name so if you wish to take part please email:Exhibition@westerntrust.hscni.net
“Together, we can show what struggle, hope and recovery really looks like. Everyone welcome to come along to these events. Thank you.”