Volume 11 - Issue 9 - Carlow Public Participation Network Members E-Bulletin, September 2025
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Influencing the Decisions That Shape Your Community!
Community & Voluntary ~ Social Inclusion ~ Environment
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Welcome to our September eBulletin
We invite you to share this edition with members of your group
so everyone stays up to date and well informed.
This is also a great opportunity to highlight and promote your group’s activities -
don’t miss the chance to get involved!
For submissions or queries, please contact Fiona at fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie or carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie.
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Recent Highlights from Carlow PPN
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Carlow County Council, Carlow County Fire & Rescue Service, with the Older Persons Council, the Gardaí and community partners, hosted Information Roadshows in Hacketstown and Tullow Fire Stations for over-55s. The events promoted local services and home fire safety, highlighting smoke alarms, escape plans, and prevention tips.
Carlow PPN were happy to attend the Roadshows and be involved in supporting this important initiative.
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Carlow PPN hosted a Zoom info session for the SE Systems Community Fund, offering €3,000–30,000 in energy-efficiency grants.
Keep up to date and follow us on our socials @CarlowPPN
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Carlow PPN made a submission to the Stakeholder Consultation on a new Strategy to support the Community and Voluntary Sector in Ireland.
Read our submission here
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Autumn Community Expo and Gathering
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Carlow PPN is delighted to invite all member groups, representatives, local organisations, services, and the wider Carlow community to take part in our Autumn 2025 Community Expo and Networking Event Thursday Sept. 25th In An Gairdin Beo from 4pm to 6pm.
This year, we will explore the environment through the lens of the Carlow Wellbeing Vision, highlighting how community-led action continues to shape a sustainable future for County Carlow.
You are warmly invited to:
Host a stand and showcase the amazing work your group is doing
Join us as an attendee to connect with others, share stories, and build partnerships
Why Attend?
The Community Expo offers a unique platform to network, learn, and celebrate community action. Whether you’re a PPN member, a local service, an educator, or simply passionate about community and sustainability, this event is designed for you.
Evening Highlights:
- Garden Tour & History – discover the story of An Gairdin Beo and its role in Carlow’s community life
- Carlow Community Gardens and Garden Allotments Policy – hear how local growing initiatives are being supported and encouraged
- Panel Discussion – engage with speakers on sustainability, the UN SDGs, and opportunities for community-led action
A Celebration of Community & Collaboration
The Expo is more than just an event – it’s a gathering of communities leading the way across Carlow. It’s a chance to:
- Showcase your group’s projects and initiatives
- Meet new people and potential collaborators
- Gain insights and inspiration from others’ experiences
- Celebrate the energy and creativity of local communities
To book your stand, contact carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie | 087 195 1444 or click below.
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Carlow PPN is currently updating our website to provide a more user-friendly and efficient experience for all members and visitors. The improvements will streamline access to information, make navigation simpler, and ensure that resources, news, and event updates are easier to find.
These updates reflect our commitment to better supporting community groups and strengthening connections across Carlow. The refreshed site will offer a faster, more intuitive experience, helping members stay informed, engaged, and connected.
Watch this space!
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Strategic Policy Committees in Local Government
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Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) are integral to local government in Ireland, facilitating policy development across various sectors by incorporating input from elected councillors, local sectoral interests, and the broader community agencies. Their primary function is to advise and assist the Council in formulating, developing, and reviewing policies.
They operate under the framework established by the Local Government Act 2001 and subsequent amendments, which outline their composition, functions, and procedures.
For the most current and detailed information on SPCs, including meeting schedules, agendas, and policy developments, we recommend visiting the official website of your local authority or contacting them directly - Carlow County Council Website
Local authorities regularly update their websites with information pertinent to SPC activities and public participation opportunities.
Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) are established in line with legislation to consider matters connected with the formulation, development, monitoring and review of policy which relate to the functions of the local authority and to advise the Council on those matters.
Carlow PPN have been allocated 9 seats on these SPCs:
3 Environment seats
4 Community & Voluntary seats
2 Social Inclusion seats
Making an impact in local policy creation: Introduction to Strategic Policy Committees Video
Carlow PPN made a submission to the Public Consultation on the
Carlow Local Authority Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) Scheme.
You can access Carlow PPNs Submission here
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Dates of SPC & other committee meetings for September 2025:
- LCDC: 9 Sept. - 2.30pm - 4.30pm
- Housing and Integration SPC: 10 Sept. - 3.30pm - 4.30pm
- Carlow Tourism: 17 Sept. - 4pm - 5:30pm
- Community Development, Recreation, Amenity, Sports, Arts, Culture, Libraries, Museum & Heritage SPC: 23 Sept. - 4:30pm - 6:30pm - Town Hall Chamber
- Transportation, Environment, Emergency Services & Capital Projects SPC: 24 Sept. - 3pm - 5pm - Oval Room
- Carlow Heritage Forum: 25 Sept. - 11am - 1pm
If you would like to bring any issues or concerns to our PPN Representatives, that sit on these committees, please email carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie
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Follow us on our socials - for current, relevant local & national news @carlowppn
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Please avail of the opportunity to advertise in our monthly eBulletin.
Email/call Fiona on 087 276 0139/059 9136288
fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie
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Community Climate Action Projects & Programme Webinar
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Carlow PPN is delighted to invite community, voluntary, and not-for-profit groups to learn more about the Community Climate Action Programme – Round 2 Funding, launching soon.
What’s on offer?
Áine Byrne, Community Climate Action Officer, will outline how your group can access 100% funding (up to €100,000) to support local projects in areas such as:
- Energy
- Food & Waste
- Climate & Environmental Action
- Travel
- Shopping & Recycling
Key Dates to connect with Aine about the fund:
- PPN Community Expo: An Gairdin Beo, Carlow, Wednesday, 25th September 2025. Aine will present in person at the PPN Community Expo – come along for a Q&A and to learn more about the fund. Book here
- Webinar (online): 30pm Monday, 6th October 2025 – for those who can’t attend in person, Aine will join with Carlow PPN for this informative Zoom webinar - Book here
Information Clinics: Check the Carlow PPN social media channels, and Carlow County Council websites for library drop-in sessions with Áine across the county.
If you would like to know more on the drop-in clinics, contact Aine on 059 9136231
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SDGs National Stakeholder Forum 2025
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The first SDGs National Stakeholder Forum of 2025 will be held on Tuesday, 9 September at Croke Park, Dublin.
Theme: Developing Ireland’s third National Implementation Plan.
The Forum will run in the Cusack Suite from 9.30am to 4.30pm (registration from 9am). It will include presentations, breakout sessions, and a panel discussion, and will be part of the consultation process for the new plan.
The event is open to everyone, and organisers will do their best to support the needs of all participants.
To attend, register at the following link: https://ti.to/sdg-forum-09-2025-croke-park/
Climate Action Plan 2025: https://www.gov.ie/.../publications/climate-action-plan/..
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Collecting Local Wildflower Seeds
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Most meadows will regenerate naturally if managed well, but they can be supported by collecting small amounts of seed from nearby native meadows. Local seeds are better for biodiversity than shop-bought mixes and provide ideal food for pollinators. Collecting and sowing these seeds, such as knapweed—which flowers late and offers vital nectar—can boost small meadows or strips. Harvesting should always be sustainable and done with the landowner’s permission.
Read the 'How to' guide here
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Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Update
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'Active Carlow' is the new identity for the Carlow Local Sports Partnership, officially launched on August 27, 2025, at the South East Technological University (SETU). This rebranding signifies a renewed commitment to promoting physical activity, community engagement, and sustainable travel across County Carlow.
they have also launched the Local Sport and Physical Activity Plan 2025–2029 alongside the Active Carlow Strategic Plan 2025–2029 at SETU Carlow.
Carlow is one of four pilot counties nationally, with the plans focused on affordable activities, inclusivity, and increasing participation. Under the theme Moving Together, Active Carlow will deliver the actions locally, providing a roadmap for a healthier, more connected county.
You can read both documents here:
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County Carlow Culture Night 2025!
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Culture Night Carlow (also known in Irish as Oíche Chultúir) is part of a nationwide celebration of creativity, culture, and the arts—organised locally by Carlow County Council Arts Service in association with the Arts Council. It invites everyone to explore Carlow’s vibrant cultural landscape through a wide array of free public events held throughout the county—from mid-afternoon into the evening.
More information
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Carlow County Council will host the Living Well Expo as part of Positive Ageing Week 2025, celebrating active and healthy living for adults aged 55+. Coordinated by the Carlow Older People’s Council and funded by Healthy Carlow, the event will feature free health checks, showcases of local services, and opportunities to connect with the community. Over 200 attendees are expected, with local organisations invited to host stands highlighting supports and activities for over-55s.
Full event details and registration will be shared soon.
For queries or stand bookings, contact agefriendlycarlow@carlowcoco.ie or 059 9136207 / 087 2145262.
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The Child Poverty Monitor is a new annual publication for the Children’s Rights Alliance. The Child Poverty Monitor will document, analyse and report on child poverty in Ireland. The Monitor will track Government progress on reducing the number of children trapped in poverty, showcase best practice solutions and spotlight key areas of concern across issues including food poverty, income adequacy, education inequality and the high cost of living.
View the Child Poverty Monitor 2025 here
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Carlow County Council is actively expanding its social housing initiatives to address local demand and enhance community living. Several new developments are underway, focusing on affordability, sustainability, and community integration.
Key Social Housing Developments can be found here
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UPMC in partnership with Carlow Older People’s Council
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Carlow UPMC Outreach Centre is hosting an informative talk on urology, tailored specifically for men. The session will cover common urological issues, prevention strategies, and treatment options in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Led by expert urologists, the event will take place at the UPMC Outreach Centre, Merchant House, Shamrock Plaza, Carlow, R93 E4E3, on Tuesday, 9th September at 4pm.
Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend.
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, gain valuable insights, and learn how to take charge of their health.
For more information, contact Miriam at 059 91 40236 or griffinm8@upmc.ie
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Pre-Budget Submission 2026
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One in five people in Ireland is disabled, yet disabled people continue to face the highest poverty rates, longest waiting lists, and lowest access to basic services.
The Programme for Government promised a “step change” for disabled people. Budget 2026 is the first budget of this new Government, and its first opportunity to deliver on that promise.
DFI Pre-Budgert Submission: dfi_budget_submission_2026_final_2.pdf
Watch their pre-Budget submission 2026 video: https://youtu.be/wRdxnMlXV8s
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Age Friendly Ireland, based on the WHO’s Global Age Friendly Framework, is a local government-led initiative preparing Ireland for a growing older population.
Coordinated by Meath County Council, it supports 35 local Age Friendly programmes nationwide. The service ensures older people’s voices are heard through regular consultation, influencing policy and service delivery at every level.
Website: Age Friendly Ireland
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TFI Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow is dedicated to providing essential transport services to the rural areas of Carlow, Kilkenny, and Wicklow. Our reliable and efficient services aim to connect communities and ensure transportation access for all.
Website: ckwlocallink
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Health Services Executive (HSE)
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HSE Older People’s Services – Carlow & Kilkenny.
Comprehensive clinical, therapy, day services, home support, and convalescence are available.
Contact your Public Health Nurse at your local health centre.
For nursing home listings and subsidies, call (056) 778 4633.
Hospitals:
- Carlow District Hospital: (059) 913 6300
- Sacred Heart Hospital, Carlow: (059) 913 630
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Announcement for NDA Research Promotion Scheme 2025-26 Funding Call
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The National Disability Authority (NDA) is inviting proposals for our Research Promotion Scheme (RPS) 2025-26 from researchers, academic institutions, advocacy organisations, Disabled Persons Organisations, service providers or other relevant bodies
The RPS 2025-26 theme is Disability in Marginalised Groups and Communities with particular interest in proposals focused on disability issues in Traveller and/or Roma communities.
Closing date: October 6th, 2025
Full details
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Community Food Initiatives (CFI) Innovate Funding
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The Community Food Initiatives programme aims to empower people in low-income communities to make healthier food choices. It funds local projects that improve access to healthy and safe food using a community development approach. Since 2010, over 65,000 people have taken part in a Community Food Initiative activity.
The Community Food Initiatives Programme 2025-28 is funded by Safefood and administered by SECAD Partnership CLG.
Safefood is an all-island implementation body set up under the British-Irish Agreement (1999) to promote awareness and knowledge of food safety and healthy eating on the island of Ireland.
Full details
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Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS)
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Local authorities can help eligible individuals find private rental accommodation through long-term rent supplement. Under the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS), those in receipt of rent supplement for at least 18 months and assessed with a long-term housing need can access quality private rentals. The local authority pays the landlord, and the tenant contributes a portion of the rent.
Further details can be found here
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Fund Supporting the Integration and Employment of Migrants
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Up to €2.7 million is available under the EIST Programme to support non-government and community organisations running projects that increase the employability of people who have moved to Ireland as migrants.
The fund aims to help participants overcome barriers to employment, including language difficulties, lack of training, or social exclusion. This is a great opportunity for organisations to make a real impact in supporting migrant communities into meaningful employment.
Full details
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Consultations, Surveys & Submissions
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Cairn Community Games National Finals – ShopLocal, ShopCarlow Competition
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To mark the exciting arrival of the Cairn Community Games National Finals in Carlow Town, Carlow County Council has launched a Shop Local competition with €1,000 in prizes up for grabs!
Closes 9th September 2025.
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VISUAL Carlow is seeking audience input on how cultural organisations can best respond to the climate emergency, from managing buildings and travel to using programming as a platform for impact. In partnership with Indigo, they’ve created a short 10-minute survey. Participants can enter a prize draw for a €100 One4All voucher.
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Climate Conversations 2025 Consultation
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Climate Conversations 2025 is now open. People across the country are invited to have their say on how we can all play our part in securing our sustainable future.
Government, communities, industry and individuals each have a part to play to help Ireland shift to a carbon-neutral future. We want to hear how we, as a government, can engage, enable and empower people to take action and realise the potential of moving towards carbon neutrality.
Becoming a climate-resilient society will help us to cope with the impacts of a changing climate. We are committed to achieving this future through a just transition, meaning all voices will be heard in a fair and equal manner, and new opportunities will mean no one is left behind.
Closing date: 5.30pm 22 September 2025
Full details
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Statement of Strategy 2025-2028 – Call for submissions
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The Department of Rural and Community Development, and the Gaeltacht is currently preparing a new Statement of Strategy to cover the period 2025-2028.
This important document will set out the strategic vision of the Department as they look to build upon the progress made since our establishment in 2017.
Commitments made in the Programme for Government – Securing Ireland’s Future, in addition to Government’s 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030; Our Rural Future; Sustainable, Inclusive and Empowered Communities and other relevant policies will inform the development of our Statement of Strategy.
Their current Statement of Strategy, can be found here
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Agenda Setting & Minute Taking Workshop
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Carlow PPN invites community groups, volunteers, and committee members to a practical, friendly workshop designed to build confidence in running effective meetings.
Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow
Tuesday, 30th September 2025, 4pm – 6pm
What you’ll learn:
- Why agendas & minutes matter
- How to draft a clear, simple agenda
- Tips for taking useful minutes
- Guidance for effective Chairing & Secretary roles
This hands-on, informal session is perfect for anyone with little or no formal training who wants to strengthen their community group skills.
Come along, learn together, and make your meetings easier & more effective!
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Adult Safeguarding education webinars – Wednesdays September 10th & 17th 2025
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You’re Invited – Safeguarding Online Sessions ️
Safeguarding Ireland works to protect vulnerable adults from abuse and to promote awareness, education, and prevention. Learn more at www.safeguardingireland.org
In partnership with Carlow PPN, two short online training sessions will run this September:
Wed 10th Sept, 5pm – Introduction to Safeguarding
Wed 17th Sept, 5pm – Preventing Abuse through Planning Ahead
Each session lasts under an hour, with a talk by Patricia Rickard-Clarke (Chairperson, Safeguarding Ireland) followed by Q&A.
Practical, hands-on webinars to strengthen safeguarding in workplaces and community groups.
Zoom Booking Links below:
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An Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI)
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Discover AI: Making Sense of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere – from voice assistants like Siri and Alexa, to Netflix and Spotify recommendations, social media feeds, self-driving cars, and even medical research. But what exactly is it, and how does it really work?
Join us for an informative and accessible talk where we’ll explore:
- What AI is (and what it isn’t)
- Everyday examples of AI in action
- How programmes like ChatGPT and Microsoft Co-Pilot can answer questions, help with writing, and explain ideas
Whether you’re curious, cautious, or just want to understand the buzz, this session will break down AI in simple terms and show how it’s shaping our lives.
Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow, R93 V4K5
All are welcome – come along, learn, and join the conversation about the future of AI!
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Dementia Awareness Workshop
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Friends of ASI Carlow, in partnership with Carlow PPN, invite you to a special free event to help build awareness around dementia and create more inclusive, supportive communities.
Wednesday, 15th October 2025, 11:00 AM
Seven Oaks Hotel, Athy Road, Carlow (R93 V4K5)
Why join?
Learn what dementia is and how it affects people locally (over 600 in Carlow)
- Discover supports & services available in the community
- Gain practical tips on creating dementia-friendly spaces
- Hear about the Friends of ASI Carlow initiative
Open to all Carlow PPN members, local groups & community organisations. Together, we can make Carlow a place where no one is left behind.
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An Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
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In-Person Workshop: An Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow
23rd July | 4.30pm - 6.30pm
Join us for a practical and accessible introduction to the world of Artificial Intelligence. This interactive session will explore what AI is, how it’s being used in everyday life, and what it means for communities, businesses, and individuals. No tech background needed — just curiosity!
Perfect for beginners and anyone interested in understanding the future of technology.
Computer Skills and Laptop required.
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PPN Stakeholder Training | Social Justice Ireland
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Carlow PPN would like to let all stakeholders about the self-paced training currently available, which may be of interest to you.
PPN Stakeholder Training
This online-only, self-paced training programme has been developed in collaboration with Social Justice Ireland and is now open for registration. The training is provided on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development.
The programme covers the following topics:
- Introduction to the PPNs (2 Modules)
- Local Government Budget
- PPNs and Local Government
- Effective Participation in Consultations
- Effective Facilitation
- Strategic Planning
- Measuring Outcomes and Impacts
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This training is designed for self-directed learning at your own pace. While there are no scheduled classes, limited support is available via a webform on each module page.
Who Can Participate?
The training is open to the following PPN stakeholders:
- PPN Workers
- PPN Secretariat Members
- PPN Representatives
- PPN Member Groups
- Local Authority Staff
- Elected Councillors
To register, please complete the registration form at the following link:
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The Accidental Author - Take A Part Carlow
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You are invited to an upcoming Culture Night event as Take A Part Carlow presents the official launch of "The Accidental Author" a unique and humorous publication that documents a two year writer in residence programme led by writer Clifton Redmond.
All are welcome to this free event taking place at Eire Og Club House, from 7pm with refreshments and entertainment on the night!
Please RSVP to takeapartcarlow@gmail.com
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Carlow Farmer Wellbeing 2025
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We’re delighted to share some great news for healthcare in our region - a new Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) is coming to Carlow.
The unit will be located on the St Dympna’s Hospital campus and is part of a HSE initiative to improve access to urgent care for people with non-life-threatening injuries. Construction is due to begin soon, with the facility expected to open its doors in early 2026.
Local representatives have welcomed the announcement, highlighting it as a major step forward for community healthcare in Carlow.
Read more: Minor injuries clinic for Carlow expected to open in early 2026 - News - Carlow Nationalist
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HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast
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The HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast returns to its weekly schedule with an episode on preparing your child for the new school year. Dr. Abigail Collins, Consultant in Public Health Medicine and Clinical Lead for the National Healthy Childhood Programme, shares practical tips on routines, planning ahead, and managing common illnesses.
Thank you for your continued support in sharing and promoting the podcast. Upcoming episodes include:
- Sept 10: Suicide Bereavement – Fiona Tuomey (HUGG) & Oliver Skehan (HSE NOSP)
- Sept 17: Dr. Colm Henry, HSE CCO
- Sept 24: Dementia & Arts – Roisin Nevin, Matthew Gibb, Catherine Keogh Daly
- Oct 1: Weaning & Starting Solids – Joanne Burke, Senior Community Dietitian
- Oct 8: Organ Donation – Olivia Farrell & Dr. Catherine Motherway
For feedback or queries, email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie.
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*Please click on the posters for a fuller image...
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