Local Artist Terry Bradley donates one off painting to his chosen charity FASA

Local Artist Terry Bradley unveils and presents a one off personally signed painting to Lorna Watson Fundraising and Events Coordinator for FASA. This painting will be raffled to raise vital funds for a new 24/7 Crisis Support Centre: The Nightingale. Tickets will be available from any FASA Centre and also a new Pop Up Shop in aid of FASA (FASA Super Sale) in Donegall Place, Belfast (opposite the Disney Store)

The FASA Super Sale Pop Up shop is opening its doors to the public from December to February in order to raise vital funds and essential awareness of the work of FASA. FASA is a local charity in Northern Ireland who provide intervention and support for individuals, families and communities who are both directly or indirectly impacted by Suicide, Self-Harm, Substance Misuse or Mental Health Distress/Crisis.

The intention of the Pop Up shop is to raise vital funds for a new project by the charity: The Nightingale. The Nightingale service aims to provide a 24/7 Crisis Support Centre incorporating an innovative out of hours service which will be led by FASA. This is a first of its kind for Northern Ireland. The facility will provide a resource for people at risk of suicide and self-harm with a place to go and receive help and support in their crucial hour of need. The tranquil venue will offer access to a quiet, comfortable space, hosting the person in distress to rest while also accommodating supportive family or friends. It has been identified there is a gap in services for people who suffer a mental health incident especially at out of hours times e.g. 9.00pm-9.00am. These individuals often present or are referred to the Emergency Department of their local hospital or evening out of hour’s doctor service. The aim of the Nightingale will be to address the present gap and deliver the service 9pm to 9am, with supporting day services at an accessible location initially piloting in East Belfast on the Upper Newtownards Road.

The Pop Up Shop will be offering NEW CDs, DVDs and toys etc at discounted rates. The Charity will also be availing of the building for training and outreach purposes to the community. As we enter the holiday season, this can prove to be a difficult time for individuals who are struggling. This is why the Nightingale is essential.