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New training programme for Kerry based counsellors

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COUNSELLING: Kerry Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre Manager Vera O'Leary says remote trauma counselling is here to stay. Photo: Michelle Crean

By Michelle Crean

A new training programme for Kerry based counsellors has been launched to help provide specialist supports for rape survivors in a pandemic world.

Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI), including its member service, Kerry Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre, has devised the new training and research programme to ensure there is standardised and specialist counselling for victims of sexual violence, both on and off-line, following the impact of COVID-19.

Tomorrow (Monday), a Government supported, free Zoom Q&A training opportunity will take place from 10.30am to 12 noon for counsellors and therapists.

Co-created with Dr Jessica Taylor, a UK based forensic psychologist, survivor and author of the best-selling book 'Why Women Are Blamed for Everything', it is specifically designed to address issues which have emerged during the lockdowns, after rape crisis centres, including the Kerry centre, had to be vacated and trauma counselling services had to move online.

Counsellors throughout Kerry are invited to register on www.rcni.ie, which is CPD accredited and completely free to participants.

Kerry Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre Manager Vera O'Leary, who lives in Killarney, said that the change in the provision of counselling services had a profound impact on the quality and impact of the deep intervention needed for survivors.

There was a 23 percent increase in contacts made to rape crisis centre helplines and while almost all of those already in counselling in the centres could switch to remote counselling, some could not and so hybrid counselling is critical, Ms O’Leary said.

“While there is some optimism that a vaccine for COVID-19 may mean a return to some normality in 2021, the impact of COVID and dealing with the trauma of sexual violence within a global shared trauma of a pandemic is not going to disappear,” she said.

“Remote trauma counselling is here to stay as part of a new hybrid model of on and off clinical counselling, but it’s vital that we know that what we are doing in this new era is working, is of the highest possible standard, and is completely survivor centred.”

The training will be recognised as best practice by key stakeholders including Government and a register will be created for all those working with survivors who have completed the training.

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Generous public raises over €1,400 at Christmas Day Goal Mile

Organisers of the Killarney Goal Mile have extended their sincere thanks to the local community following an “overwhelmingly successful” event on Christmas Day. The annual fundraiser, which took place in […]

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Organisers of the Killarney Goal Mile have extended their sincere thanks to the local community following an “overwhelmingly successful” event on Christmas Day.

The annual fundraiser, which took place in the Killarney House and Gardens, saw a massive turnout of walkers and runners. Goal Ireland has officially acknowledged a total of €882.50 raised in cash on the day, with a further €535 donated through the online portal, bringing the combined total for the international aid agency to over €1,400.
In a statement of appreciation, Goal Ireland noted that the generosity shown in Killarney will help transform the lives of millions of vulnerable people in 2025. The funds will provide food, shelter, and safety for refugees in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. Locally, the money will also support street children in Ethiopia and provide training and tools for young entrepreneurs to support their communities.
Closer to home, Kerry Cancer Support Services also expressed deep gratitude to participants for their impressive generosity. Organiser Anne Mangan highlighted the vital role of the charity’s transport service, which is a primary beneficiary of the local collection.
“The transport service is described by those using it as a travelling support group,” Ms Mangan said. “It offers not just transport to appointments, but comfort, understanding, and companionship during what can be a very difficult time for patients and their families.”
The organisers concluded by offering a “Míle Buíochas” to everyone who took time out of their Christmas morning to support these two worthy causes.

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Beaufort Golf Club reopening under new management

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Beaufort Golf Club is entering a new chapter as it is set to reopen under new management.

The Magill Family, who own the course, have described the reopening as a “modern but respectful evolution” of the club, building on Beaufort’s strong heritage while investing in facilities, technology and experiences that appeal to younger players and new members.

Pauline, the club’s new Golf Operations Manager, alongside Ella, are now the welcoming faces of Beaufort Golf Club.

Both have been overwhelmed by the positive response from members and the wider local community, with strong support evident since the reopening.

A major redevelopment of the clubhouse kitchen and restaurant is currently underway.

Central to this project is the finalisation of a new, fully branded restaurant franchise, to be run on site by a five-star Michelin trained chef.

Beaufort Golf Club is set to become the first golf club in County Kerry to fully adopt robotic mowing technology for its fairways, representing a major advancement in course maintenance, consistency, and sustainability.

The robotic mowing programme is led by new Head Greenkeeper Padraig Bruton, alongside Tony who remains onsite with an expanded greens team.

Looking ahead, the club has ambitious but carefully phased plans. Shane Spellman, who is overseeing the investment, said “the club is exploring complementary leisure and sporting activities on site, including a padel court, golf simulation and other facilities, all to broaden its appeal and strengthen its role as a community hub”

To mark the reopening, Beaufort Golf Club is offering a reduced sign-up fee for new members until the end of January, while welcoming back former members at existing rates.

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