SICAP Wellbeing Progress Report 2024–2025

Developing Inclusive, Community-Led Wellbeing Supports Across Kilkenny

Overview & Strategic Direction

In late 2024, SICAP identified a strategic opportunity to expand wellbeing initiatives to new communities across Kilkenny, following a successful period of consultation and delivery. This expansion was informed by the Health Needs Analysis consultation and supported through collaboration with local stakeholders including Mental Health Ireland, Kilkenny County Council, and existing community health services. The aim was to avoid duplication, complement existing offerings, and ensure a coordinated, inclusive response — particularly targeting marginalised individuals and communities.

A three-strand plan was developed for implementation in 2025, focusing on:

  1. Nature-Based Engagement
  2. Mental Health & Personal Development Support
  3. Inclusive Wellbeing Approaches for Diverse Needs & Readiness Levels

Community-Based Wellbeing Programmes

In response to identified needs, SICAP secured funding from the LCDC and Healthy Ireland to deliver a series of localised wellbeing programmes in the Eastern Environs area. Three distinct programmes were held across Millenium Court, Bishop Birch Community Centre, and O'Loughlin Court. All sessions were well attended, and participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

As a follow-on in Bishop Birch, a Healthy Food Made Easy programme is running in November 2025, with plans for a series of yoga classes in early 2026. These initiatives aim to build resilience, promote wellbeing, and strengthen community connection in a designated high-priority area.

Creative & Trauma-Informed Engagement

Since early 2024, the SICAP team has been increasingly integrating trauma-informed practices into programme delivery, supported by dedicated training undertaken by Development Officers (DOs). This approach has enabled the team to create safe, supportive environments that meet clients where they are on their wellbeing journey — whether they are ready to move into formal education or employment, or need more time to heal, build confidence, and reconnect.

A standout initiative has been the Creative Wellbeing Programme supported by Creative Ireland and Kilkenny County Council's Arts Office. This weekly group, which began in October 2024 and continues through October 2025, supports individuals navigating complex challenges such as poor mental health, substance recovery, or housing instability. Over 30 participants have engaged, supported weekly by DOs, who help build relationships and gently introduce further services when appropriate.

Milestones included a group trip to an art exhibition in June 2025 — a significant development in the group's confidence and cohesion, which would not have been possible earlier in the programme.

Access to Nature & Active Wellbeing

A growing theme in SICAP's wellbeing strategy has been the use of nature and the outdoors to support physical and emotional health. This began in 2024 with "Wellbeing by the Water" in Freshford — an initiative that introduced participants to the therapeutic potential of being near water. Several clients have since progressed to swimming lessons and reported significant improvements in their confidence and enjoyment of physical activity.

This nature-based engagement has continued throughout 2025 with:

  • Weekly community walks
  • Monthly guided trips to local nature sites
  • Ongoing kayaking programmes
  • Nature restoration volunteer work as both a wellbeing and community-building activity