NEW APPOINTMENT: John Drummey (left), pictured with Pat O'Brien of Kerry Mental Health, has been appointed the association's first ever General Manager. Photo: Don MacMonagle

Kerry Mental Health Association has announced the appointment of John Drummey as General Manager.

John joins the organisation at a time of great stress for the population of Kerry, when the befriending activities of Kerry Mental Health Association volunteers are much in demand. He will bring vitality and innovation to the work of our nine branches.

“I am looking forward to working with the Board of Directors and volunteers involved in Kerry Mental Health Association," John Drummey said.

"I’m mindful of the challenges facing everyone in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact that the virus and the restrictions have had on our mental health. In rebranding and revitalising the organisation, I intend to remind people who we are and what we can do. Kerry Mental Health Association needs to be the most instantly recognisable source of information and support while leading the way to remove the stigmas associated with mental illness.”

The Chairman of Kerry Mental Health Association, Pat O’Brien, added they they are delighted to welcome John Drummey on board as their first General Manager.

"It’s timely that we should announce the appointment during Kerry Mental Health and Well-being Week when there is so much attention on the 'Five Ways to Well-being'. John’s experience across a range of sectors in Kerry have prepared him to lead our organisation, recruit and motivate volunteers and to develop, implement and manage business strategies and plans for Kerry Mental Health Association.”

DEVELOPING GROWTH

This is a first-time appointment aimed at developing the growth and expansion of Kerry Mental Health Association through the recruitment and empowerment of volunteers and the management of fundraising activities.

The nine branches which make up Kerry Mental Health Association pursue befriending and support activities to enrich the lives of neighbours and friends who are living with mental illness.

Established in 1966, Kerry Mental Health Association is an Approved Housing Body with nine residences in Tralee, Killarney, Listowel, Killorglin, Rathmore and Caherciveen providing housing for people living with mental ill-health who are on the county council housing list.

Anyone who would like to become a volunteer with Kerry Mental Health Association is welcome to contact 064 6631009 or email info@kerrymentalhealth.com.