A club in Newry, which has offered people with Down’s Syndrome and learning difficulties a social outlet for more than half a century, is facing an uncertain future.
That’s because the Newry and District Gateway Club is facing the withdrawal of £10,000 in annual funding from the Southern Health Trust, effective April 2025.
This funding cut, announced this week, will have a significant impact on the functioning of the club.
Lena Canavan, Head of Specialist Services at the Trust, informed the club’s management that the cuts would affect services across the Trust’s area.
The decision has shocked the club’s committee, particularly after recently celebrating its 50th anniversary last summer, with a hugely successful gala ball in the lead up to Christmas past.
Paddy Duffy, current Chairman of the club and someone who has been involved for 40 years, described the funding cut as a “knife in the back,” undermining the legacy they had hoped to continue for another 50 years.
The group are determined to fight the decision, lobbying local political parties for support.
Liz Kimmins, Sinn Féin MLA, said: “This news comes as a massive blow to the Gateway Club’s members and volunteers, who have been left shocked and anxious by this development. Committee members have said this has been totally unexpected, and if the Trust proceeds with this decision, will have significant ramifications for the future of Newry Gateway.
“Newry Gateway Club are an institution in the Newry area, providing a safe and supportive environment for adults with learning disabilities for over 50 years, often on a shoestring budget.”
Ms Kimmins said that the Trust must look again at their decision.
“I have contacted the Trust for an urgent response, and have asked for serious reconsideration to be given to this very short sighted decision.
“At a time when the Department of Health are making plans to improve learning disability services, actions like this may further reduce the already scarce provision and we must do all we can to support Newry Gateway, its service users and their families.”
Armagh I has contacted the Southern Trust for comment.
