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Contents Z1.3.3 Primary and Post Primary Schools ...... 66 Z1.4 Housing Structure ...... 68 Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations...... 4 Z1.4.1 Households...... 68 Executive Summary ...... 6 Z1.4.2 Local Authority Rented Housing...... 68  Z1.4.3 Homelessness ...... 70 Healthy Longford Plan: The Vision ...... 6 Z1.5 Affluence and Disadvantage ...... 70    The Healthy Longford Action Plan 2018-2022 ...... 6 Z1.5.1 Spatial Disadvantage ...... 70 Towards a Healthy County Longford ...... 9 Z1.6 Ethnicity ...... 72 Lifecycle Approach ...... 9 Z1.7  Demographic Aging ...... 74  Section A: Commitment and Healthy Ireland Framework Z1.8 Single Parent Families ...... 75 Background ...... 10 Z1.9 Labour Market ...... 76 A1 Foreword ...... 10 Z1.9.1 Unemployment Rate ...... 76 A2 Foreword ...... 11 Z2  County Health Profile ...... 78   A3 Healthy Ireland Framework ...... 12 Z2.1 Key Facts ...... 78 A3.1 Healthy Longford Aim ...... 13 Z2.2 General Health ...... 78 Section B: Vision for Healthy Longford ...... 14 Z2.3 Disability ...... 79   Z2.3.1 Disability by Classification ...... 81 Section C: County Profile ...... 15  Z2.3.2 Intellectual Disability ...... 81 County Health Profile ...... 18 Z2.4  Births and Deaths 2015 ...... 82  Z2.4.1 Occurrences of Death ...... 83 Section D: Strategic Priorities and Connections ...... 19  Z2.4.2 Self-Harm Rates ...... 83 D1 Healthy Ireland: Strategic Priorities ...... 20 Z2.5  Carers ...... 83 D1.1 Key Policies and Actions ...... 20   Z3 Key National Policies and Actions ...... 84 D1.2 Physical Activity ...... 20   D1.3 Healthy Weight ...... 23 Z3.1 National Physical Activity Plan for Ireland: Get Ireland Active!...... 84 D1.4 Tobacco Free Ireland ...... 25 Z3.2 Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland...... 85 D1.5 Wellbeing (Mental Health) & Connecting for Life ...... 26 Z3.3 Tobacco Free Ireland ...... 86 D1.6 Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery ...... 32     Z3.4 Connecting for Life ...... 86 D1.7 National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020 ...... 35 Z3.5 National Positive Aging Strategy ...... 88 Z3.6 Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery ...... 88 Section E: Consultation and Collaboration ...... 36     Z3.7 Get Ireland Walking Strategy and Action Plan 2017-2020 ...... 89 E1 Survey of Social and Community Services ...... 36     E2 Physical Space ...... 38   E3 Longford PPN - Wellbeing Meetings ...... 38   Section F: Healthy Longford Strategic Priorities ...... 41   F1 LECP High Level Goals ...... 41 F2 Strategic Partners ...... 41 F3 Strategic Actions ...... 42 F3.1 Priority Actions: GENERAL POLICY & CROSS CUTTING ACTIONS  45  F3.2 Priority Actions: Healthy Ireland Themes ...... 46 Section H: Implementation ...... 52   H1 Lifecycle Approach ...... 52 H2 Governance ...... 52 H3 Resourcing ...... 53   Section I: Monitoring and Review ...... 54   I1 Monitoring and Evaluation Framework ...... 54 I1.1 Framework Model ...... 54 Appendices ...... 57   Z1 Socio-Economic Profile ...... 58  Z1.1 Overview ...... 58 Z1.2 Demographics ...... 59 Z1.2.1 Population ...... 59 Z1.3 Education ...... 63 Z1.3.1 Low Educational Attainment ...... 63 Z1.3.2 Third-Level Educational Attainment ...... 64   HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 2 22/08/2018

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Contents Z1.3.3 Primary and Post Primary Schools ...... 66 Z1.4 Housing Structure ...... 68 Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations...... 4 Z1.4.1 Households...... 68 Executive Summary ...... 6 Z1.4.2 Local Authority Rented Housing...... 68  Z1.4.3 Homelessness ...... 70 Healthy Longford Plan: The Vision ...... 6 Z1.5 Affluence and Disadvantage ...... 70    The Healthy Longford Action Plan 2018-2022 ...... 6 Z1.5.1 Spatial Disadvantage ...... 70 Towards a Healthy County Longford ...... 9 Z1.6 Ethnicity ...... 72 Lifecycle Approach ...... 9 Z1.7  Demographic Aging ...... 74  Section A: Commitment and Healthy Ireland Framework Z1.8 Single Parent Families ...... 75 Background ...... 10 Z1.9 Labour Market ...... 76 A1 Foreword ...... 10 Z1.9.1 Unemployment Rate ...... 76 A2 Foreword ...... 11 Z2  County Health Profile ...... 78   A3 Healthy Ireland Framework ...... 12 Z2.1 Key Facts ...... 78 A3.1 Healthy Longford Aim ...... 13 Z2.2 General Health ...... 78 Section B: Vision for Healthy Longford ...... 14 Z2.3 Disability ...... 79   Z2.3.1 Disability by Classification ...... 81 Section C: County Profile ...... 15  Z2.3.2 Intellectual Disability ...... 81 County Health Profile ...... 18 Z2.4  Births and Deaths 2015 ...... 82  Z2.4.1 Occurrences of Death ...... 83 Section D: Strategic Priorities and Connections ...... 19  Z2.4.2 Self-Harm Rates ...... 83 D1 Healthy Ireland: Strategic Priorities ...... 20 Z2.5  Carers ...... 83 D1.1 Key Policies and Actions ...... 20   Z3 Key National Policies and Actions ...... 84 D1.2 Physical Activity ...... 20   D1.3 Healthy Weight ...... 23 Z3.1 National Physical Activity Plan for Ireland: Get Ireland Active!...... 84 D1.4 Tobacco Free Ireland ...... 25 Z3.2 Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland...... 85 D1.5 Wellbeing (Mental Health) & Connecting for Life ...... 26 Z3.3 Tobacco Free Ireland ...... 86 D1.6 Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery ...... 32     Z3.4 Connecting for Life ...... 86 D1.7 National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020 ...... 35 Z3.5 National Positive Aging Strategy ...... 88 Z3.6 Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery ...... 88 Section E: Consultation and Collaboration ...... 36     Z3.7 Get Ireland Walking Strategy and Action Plan 2017-2020 ...... 89 E1 Survey of Social and Community Services ...... 36     E2 Physical Space ...... 38   E3 Longford PPN - Wellbeing Meetings ...... 38   Section F: Healthy Longford Strategic Priorities ...... 41   F1 LECP High Level Goals ...... 41 F2 Strategic Partners ...... 41 F3 Strategic Actions ...... 42 F3.1 Priority Actions: GENERAL POLICY & CROSS CUTTING ACTIONS  45  F3.2 Priority Actions: Healthy Ireland Themes ...... 46 Section H: Implementation ...... 52   H1 Lifecycle Approach ...... 52 H2 Governance ...... 52 H3 Resourcing ...... 53   Section I: Monitoring and Review ...... 54   I1 Monitoring and Evaluation Framework ...... 54 I1.1 Framework Model ...... 54 Appendices ...... 57   Z1 Socio-Economic Profile ...... 58  Z1.1 Overview ...... 58 Z1.2 Demographics ...... 59 Z1.2.1 Population ...... 59 Z1.3 Education ...... 63 Z1.3.1 Low Educational Attainment ...... 63 Z1.3.2 Third-Level Educational Attainment ...... 64   HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 2 22/08/2018

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Tables Figures Table 1 – Key National Policies and Actions ...... 20 Figure 1 – Healthy Ireland Framework ...... 12 Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations Table 2 -LECP Committed Actions to 2021 ...... 20 Figure 2 – Determinants of Health ...... 43 CHO Community Healthcare Organisation Table 3 - Key Get Ireland Walking Strategy Elements ...... 23 Figure 3 – Triangulation Model ...... 43 Table 4 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 (Healthy Eating) ...... 23 Figure 4 – Monitoring Model ...... 55 CLDAF County Longford Drugs & Alcohol Forum Table 5 – Key Obesity Action Plan Elements ...... 24 Figure 5 – Evaluation Framework Model ...... 55 CSO Central Statistics Office Table 6 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 ...... 25 Figure 6 – County Longford Gender Balance 2016 ...... 60 DATS Drug and Alcohol Treatment Support Table 7 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 ...... 26 Figure 7 – Population Trend 1996-2016 ...... 60 DCYA Department of Children and Youth Affairs Table 8 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 ...... 32 Figure 8 - Population Pyramid 2016 ...... 61 DECLG Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government Table 9 - Population Trend 1996-2016 ...... 60 Figure 9 – EDs With Age Dependency Rates >40% ...... 63 DES Department of Education and Skills   Table 10 – EDs With Highest Population Growth ...... 61 Figure 10 – EDs Primary Education Only >27 2016 ...... 64 DH Department of Health Table 11 – Comparative Age Dependency 2016 ...... 62 Figure 11 – EDs Third-Level Attainment > 35 2016 ...... 65 DTTS Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport Table 12 - Educational Attainment in County Longford 2016 ...... 63 Figure 12 – Highest Rate Local Authority Renting 2016 ...... 69 EDs Electoral Divisions Table 13 - Primary Schools 2017 ...... 66 Figure 13 – County Longford Ethnicity 2016 ...... 73 Table 14 – Special School 2017 ...... 67 Figure 14 – General Health 2016 ...... 78 EU European Union Table 15 – Post-Primary Schools 2017 ...... 67 Figure 15 – Comparative Disability by Age 2016 ...... 80 FPSHP Foundation Programme in Sexual Health Promotion Table 16 – DEIS Primary Schools ...... 67 Figure 16 – County Longford Birth-Rate Trends 2006-2016...... 82 HI Healthy Ireland Table 17 – DEIS Post Primary Schools ...... 68 Figure 17 – County Longford Mothers Age Trends 2006-2016 ...... 82 HP Haase and Pratschke Table 18 – Homelessness by Region 2016 ...... 70  HRB Health Research Board Table 19 - HP Index Classification ...... 70 Maps  HSE Health Service Executive Table 20 – County Longford Most Disadvantaged EDs 2016 ...... 70 Map 1 – County Longford Electoral Divisions ...... 58 LA Local Authority Table 21 - County Longford Most Affluent EDs 2016 ...... 72 Map 2 – County Longford Population Distribution by ED...... 59 LCDC Local Community Development Committee Table 22 – Population by Nationality 2016 ...... 72 Map 3 – Age Dependency Rates by ED 2016 ...... 62 LCRL Longford Community Resources CLG Table 23 – Lone Parent Poverty Rate (Children Under 18) ...... 75 Map 4 – Primary Education Only by ED 2016 ...... 64 LSP Local Sports Partnership Table 24 – Persons with a Disability 2011-2016 ...... 79 Map 5 – Third-Level Education 2016 ...... 65 LWL Longford Women’s Link  Table 25 – Persons With Disability By Age 2016...... 80 Map 6 – LA Rented Accommodation by ED 2016 ...... 69 LWPP Longford Westmeath Parenting Partnership Table 26 – Disability by Classification 2016 ...... 81 Map 7 – Affluence and Deprivation by ED 2016 ...... 72 M&E Monitoring and Evaluation Table 27 – NIDD Registrations per 1,000 of Population ...... 81 Map 8 – White Irish Traveller Population ...... 73 MYDAS Midlands Youth Drug and Alcohol Support Table 28 – Births 2015: Mothers County of Residence ...... 82 Map 9 – Age Dependency ...... 74 NIDD National Intellectual Disability Database Table 29 – County Longford Occurrences of Death 2014-2016 ...... 83 Map 10 – Lone Parent Rate by ED 2016 ...... 75 Table 30 – County Longford Carers 2011-2016 ...... 84 Map 11 – County Longford Male Unemployment Rate by ED 2016 ...... 76 NOSP National Office for Suicide Prevention Table 31 – Key NPAP Actions ...... 84 Map 12 - County Longford Female Unemployment Rate by ED 2016 ..... 77 NSRF National Suicide Research Foundation Table 32 – Key Obesity Action Plan Elements ...... 85  NTA National Transport Authority Table 33 - Key Connecting for Life Elements ...... 86  NUTS Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics (EU) Table 34 - Key National Positive Aging Strategy Elements ...... 88 OPN Older Person’s Network Table 35 - Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery Elements ...... 88 OPC Older Person’s Council Table 36 - Key Get Ireland Walking Strategy Elements ...... 89 OSI Ordnance Survey Ireland 

 OPC Older Persons Council PPN Public Participation Network SAPS Small Area Population Statistics SDG Sustainable Development Goal SICAP Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme SILC Survey on Income and Living Conditions SPHE Social Personal and Health Education WHO World Health Organisation

Acknowledgements Maps reproduced under Ordnance Survey Ireland Licence No. EN0063318. © Ordnance Survey Ireland - Government of Ireland All statistical data is based upon the CSO Census of Population 2016, unless otherwise stated.

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Tables Figures Table 1 – Key National Policies and Actions ...... 20 Figure 1 – Healthy Ireland Framework ...... 12 Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations Table 2 -LECP Committed Actions to 2021 ...... 20 Figure 2 – Determinants of Health ...... 43 CHO Community Healthcare Organisation Table 3 - Key Get Ireland Walking Strategy Elements ...... 23 Figure 3 – Triangulation Model ...... 43 Table 4 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 (Healthy Eating) ...... 23 Figure 4 – Monitoring Model ...... 55 CLDAF County Longford Drugs & Alcohol Forum Table 5 – Key Obesity Action Plan Elements ...... 24 Figure 5 – Evaluation Framework Model ...... 55 CSO Central Statistics Office Table 6 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 ...... 25 Figure 6 – County Longford Gender Balance 2016 ...... 60 DATS Drug and Alcohol Treatment Support Table 7 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 ...... 26 Figure 7 – Population Trend 1996-2016 ...... 60 DCYA Department of Children and Youth Affairs Table 8 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 ...... 32 Figure 8 - Population Pyramid 2016 ...... 61 DECLG Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government Table 9 - Population Trend 1996-2016 ...... 60 Figure 9 – EDs With Age Dependency Rates >40% ...... 63 DES Department of Education and Skills   Table 10 – EDs With Highest Population Growth ...... 61 Figure 10 – EDs Primary Education Only >27 2016 ...... 64 DH Department of Health Table 11 – Comparative Age Dependency 2016 ...... 62 Figure 11 – EDs Third-Level Attainment > 35 2016 ...... 65 DTTS Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport Table 12 - Educational Attainment in County Longford 2016 ...... 63 Figure 12 – Highest Rate Local Authority Renting 2016 ...... 69 EDs Electoral Divisions Table 13 - Primary Schools 2017 ...... 66 Figure 13 – County Longford Ethnicity 2016 ...... 73 Table 14 – Special School 2017 ...... 67 Figure 14 – General Health 2016 ...... 78 EU European Union Table 15 – Post-Primary Schools 2017 ...... 67 Figure 15 – Comparative Disability by Age 2016 ...... 80 FPSHP Foundation Programme in Sexual Health Promotion Table 16 – DEIS Primary Schools ...... 67 Figure 16 – County Longford Birth-Rate Trends 2006-2016...... 82 HI Healthy Ireland Table 17 – DEIS Post Primary Schools ...... 68 Figure 17 – County Longford Mothers Age Trends 2006-2016 ...... 82 HP Haase and Pratschke Table 18 – Homelessness by Region 2016 ...... 70  HRB Health Research Board Table 19 - HP Index Classification ...... 70 Maps  HSE Health Service Executive Table 20 – County Longford Most Disadvantaged EDs 2016 ...... 70 Map 1 – County Longford Electoral Divisions ...... 58 LA Local Authority Table 21 - County Longford Most Affluent EDs 2016 ...... 72 Map 2 – County Longford Population Distribution by ED...... 59 LCDC Local Community Development Committee Table 22 – Population by Nationality 2016 ...... 72 Map 3 – Age Dependency Rates by ED 2016 ...... 62 LCRL Longford Community Resources CLG Table 23 – Lone Parent Poverty Rate (Children Under 18) ...... 75 Map 4 – Primary Education Only by ED 2016 ...... 64 LSP Local Sports Partnership Table 24 – Persons with a Disability 2011-2016 ...... 79 Map 5 – Third-Level Education 2016 ...... 65 LWL Longford Women’s Link  Table 25 – Persons With Disability By Age 2016...... 80 Map 6 – LA Rented Accommodation by ED 2016 ...... 69 LWPP Longford Westmeath Parenting Partnership Table 26 – Disability by Classification 2016 ...... 81 Map 7 – Affluence and Deprivation by ED 2016 ...... 72 M&E Monitoring and Evaluation Table 27 – NIDD Registrations per 1,000 of Population ...... 81 Map 8 – White Irish Traveller Population ...... 73 MYDAS Midlands Youth Drug and Alcohol Support Table 28 – Births 2015: Mothers County of Residence ...... 82 Map 9 – Age Dependency ...... 74 NIDD National Intellectual Disability Database Table 29 – County Longford Occurrences of Death 2014-2016 ...... 83 Map 10 – Lone Parent Rate by ED 2016 ...... 75 Table 30 – County Longford Carers 2011-2016 ...... 84 Map 11 – County Longford Male Unemployment Rate by ED 2016 ...... 76 NOSP National Office for Suicide Prevention Table 31 – Key NPAP Actions ...... 84 Map 12 - County Longford Female Unemployment Rate by ED 2016 ..... 77 NSRF National Suicide Research Foundation Table 32 – Key Obesity Action Plan Elements ...... 85  NTA National Transport Authority Table 33 - Key Connecting for Life Elements ...... 86  NUTS Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics (EU) Table 34 - Key National Positive Aging Strategy Elements ...... 88 OPN Older Person’s Network Table 35 - Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery Elements ...... 88 OPC Older Person’s Council Table 36 - Key Get Ireland Walking Strategy Elements ...... 89 OSI Ordnance Survey Ireland 

 OPC Older Persons Council PPN Public Participation Network SAPS Small Area Population Statistics SDG Sustainable Development Goal SICAP Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme SILC Survey on Income and Living Conditions SPHE Social Personal and Health Education WHO World Health Organisation

Acknowledgements Maps reproduced under Ordnance Survey Ireland Licence No. EN0063318. © Ordnance Survey Ireland - Government of Ireland All statistical data is based upon the CSO Census of Population 2016, unless otherwise stated.

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Deprivation Index information and mapping is based on Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) The 2016 Pobal HP Deprivation Index, accessed at www.trutzhaase.eu Executive Summary

Healthy Longford Plan: The Vision

We aim to create a county where everyone can enjoy physical and mental health, and where wellbeing is valued and supported at every level of society.

The Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 draws on existing policies, and proposes new arrangements to ensure effective co-operation and collaboration across organisations, the health system and all local bodies, including the community and voluntary sector, and sporting organisations. It is about each individual sector helping to improve health and wellbeing, multiplying both our efforts and our results. The Healthy Longford Plan takes account of identified local needs, and references the four overarching goals of the national Healthy Ireland Framework. In turn, this will support the achievement of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals to which Ireland is a signatory under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This UN Agenda is a plan of action for people, planet and prosperity. It also seeks to strengthen universal peace through freedom. The Healthy Longford Plan will be delivered by Longford Local Community Development Committee working with all of our local stakeholders in a collaborative partnership to improve the health and wellbeing of everyone in the county.

The Healthy Longford Action Plan 2018-2022

The key points of focus of the Healthy Longford Action Plan 2018-2022 are summarised below.

Physical Activity

The aim of the Healthy Longford Plan is to provide actions to promote increased levels of physical activity in County Longford.  Healthy Longford is committed to supporting the implementation of the Longford Sports Partnership Strategy.  Healthy Longford is committed to support community organisations and groups to deliver Longford Sports Partnership Men’s Sheds Initiative funded by Healthy Ireland. community based physical activity and well-being programmes targeting all population groups, including those who are disadvantaged, people with disabilities, young people and their families through the Healthy Ireland Fund and ensure those programmes are in alignment with the objectives of the Longford Sports Partnership Strategy.  Healthy Longford is committed to overseeing the delivery of the Longford Walking and Cycling Strategy and will work with the Planning and Roads Sections of Longford County Council to ensure that all new developments shall facilitate everyone to be able to walk

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Deprivation Index information and mapping is based on Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) The 2016 Pobal HP Deprivation Index, accessed at www.trutzhaase.eu Executive Summary

Healthy Longford Plan: The Vision

We aim to create a county where everyone can enjoy physical and mental health, and where wellbeing is valued and supported at every level of society.

The Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 draws on existing policies, and proposes new arrangements to ensure effective co-operation and collaboration across organisations, the health system and all local bodies, including the community and voluntary sector, and sporting organisations. It is about each individual sector helping to improve health and wellbeing, multiplying both our efforts and our results. The Healthy Longford Plan takes account of identified local needs, and references the four overarching goals of the national Healthy Ireland Framework. In turn, this will support the achievement of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals to which Ireland is a signatory under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This UN Agenda is a plan of action for people, planet and prosperity. It also seeks to strengthen universal peace through freedom. The Healthy Longford Plan will be delivered by Longford Local Community Development Committee working with all of our local stakeholders in a collaborative partnership to improve the health and wellbeing of everyone in the county.

The Healthy Longford Action Plan 2018-2022

The key points of focus of the Healthy Longford Action Plan 2018-2022 are summarised below.

Physical Activity

The aim of the Healthy Longford Plan is to provide actions to promote increased levels of physical activity in County Longford.  Healthy Longford is committed to supporting the implementation of the Longford Sports Partnership Strategy.  Healthy Longford is committed to support community organisations and groups to deliver community based physical activity and well-being programmes targeting all population groups, including those who are disadvantaged, people with disabilities, young people and their families through the Healthy Ireland Fund and ensure those programmes are in alignment with the objectives of the Longford Sports Partnership Strategy.  Healthy Longford is committed to overseeing the delivery of the Longford Walking and Cycling Strategy and will work with the Planning and Roads Sections of Longford County Council to ensure that all new developments shall facilitate everyone to be able to walk

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and cycle in their daily lives. In existing communities, Healthy Longford is committed to Sexual Health upgrading walking and cycling infrastructure. The aim of the Longford Healthy Plan is to work towards everyone experiencing  Healthy Longford is committed to support the delivery of Get Ireland Walking Strategy by positive sexual health and wellbeing and having access to high quality sexual health working with key stakeholders and communities to support the development and information, education and services. promotion of the Royal Canal Greenway, walking trails and other off road routes suitable for walking and cycling.  Working with key stakeholders Healthy Longford will support the delivery of the National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020.  In conjunction with the Longford Walking and Cycling Strategy, Healthy Longford is committed to promoting Smarter Travel initiatives among schools, work places and  Healthy Longford is committed to working with schools, youth services and youth communities in Longford. orientated organisations to promote education on all aspects of sexuality, sexual health and healthy relationships to all young people in our community. Mental Health and Wellbeing

Mental health is a growing health, social and economic issue and it is expected that Tobacco and Substance Abuse depressive mental illnesses will be the leading cause of chronic disease in high- income countries by 2030. Smoking is a leading cause of preventable death in Ireland. Alcohol misuse is also  Healthy Longford is committed to supporting the implementation of Connecting For Life, widespread and according to health research, 56% of Irish People drink in a harmful Ireland’s National Strategy to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020 and in particular to play a key manner. As well as a danger of addiction, drug misuse has serious health risks and is role in the implementation of Connecting for Life Midlands, Louth Meath 2018–2020 associated with a wide range of conditions and complications, both physical and which has been developed to ensure that local actions and outcomes are aligned with the psychological. respond to the national strategy.  Healthy Longford is committed to working with HSE Health Promotion and Improvement  Healthy Longford is committed to working with a supporting key stakeholders and all Service to create a ‘smoke free Longford’ through empowering smokers to engage with population groups in the implementation of the National Strategy for Women and Girls the HSE QUIT and local cessation services and restricting smoking in public places, in 2017-2020 Objective Two: Advance the Physical and Mental Health and Wellbeing of particular those managed by the Longford County Council. Women and Girls and Objective Five: Combat Violence Against Women.  Healthy Longford will engage with the Regional Drugs Task Force and community groups  Healthy Longford is committed to working with and supporting key stakeholders and in implementing initiatives to tackle substance abuse and support those in recovery. population groups in the implementation of the Second National Strategy on Domestic,  Ensure that the supply of alcohol is restricted or eliminated at events and festivals Sexual and Gender Based violence. supported by the Council.  Healthy Longford is committed to working with key stakeholders and all population groups  Healthy Longford is committed to working with local stakeholders to raise awareness and to identify particular needs and deliver programmes to support mental health and understanding of the direct links between domestic violence and substance abuse, as wellbeing in conjunction with the Healthy Ireland Fund. well as mental health issues.

Healthy Weight General Policy and Cross-Cutting Actions

The ‘Obesity Policy and Action Plan’ covers the period 2016 to 2025. The overall aim The key aim of the Healthy Ireland Initiative is to promote integrated planning through is to increase the number of people with a healthy weight and set us on a path where cross-sectoral working. The Healthy Ireland Initiative can act as a catalyst for healthy weight becomes the norm. The Healthy Longford Plan provides an Longford LCDC to engage further with local agencies and community groups to work opportunity to act and set the direction towards reversing the trend of increasing rates together to promote and improve health and wellbeing in our community. of obesity.  A Healthy Longford Steering Group will be established to oversee the development of the  – Healthy Longford is committed to targeting the factors that can contribute to weight gain Healthy Longford initiative and implementation and progress of the Healthy Longford including, but not limited to, lack of opportunity to engage in physical activity; access to Plan. Members of the Healthy Longford Steering Group will represent key stakeholders nutritious food; raising awareness of the impact of sedentary lifestyles and the availability and reflect the social determinants of health. This group will report to the LCDC. of convenience food. Through raising awareness among key stakeholders, lobbying for action at strategic level and supporting the implementation of the key policy A Healthy  Healthy Longford is committed to working in partnership with the elected representatives Weight for All. (Councillors) of Longford County Council to build their awareness of the social

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115011(3) Turner PG.indd 8 18/10/2018 15:58 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 and cycle in their daily lives. In existing communities, Healthy Longford is committed to Sexual Health upgrading walking and cycling infrastructure. The aim of the Longford Healthy Plan is to work towards everyone experiencing  Healthy Longford is committed to support the delivery of Get Ireland Walking Strategy by positive sexual health and wellbeing and having access to high quality sexual health working with key stakeholders and communities to support the development and information, education and services. promotion of the Royal Canal Greenway, walking trails and other off road routes suitable for walking and cycling.  Working with key stakeholders Healthy Longford will support the delivery of the National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020.  In conjunction with the Longford Walking and Cycling Strategy, Healthy Longford is committed to promoting Smarter Travel initiatives among schools, work places and  Healthy Longford is committed to working with schools, youth services and youth communities in Longford. orientated organisations to promote education on all aspects of sexuality, sexual health and healthy relationships to all young people in our community. Mental Health and Wellbeing

Mental health is a growing health, social and economic issue and it is expected that Tobacco and Substance Abuse depressive mental illnesses will be the leading cause of chronic disease in high- income countries by 2030. Smoking is a leading cause of preventable death in Ireland. Alcohol misuse is also  Healthy Longford is committed to supporting the implementation of Connecting For Life, widespread and according to health research, 56% of Irish People drink in a harmful Ireland’s National Strategy to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020 and in particular to play a key manner. As well as a danger of addiction, drug misuse has serious health risks and is role in the implementation of Connecting for Life Midlands, Louth Meath 2018–2020 associated with a wide range of conditions and complications, both physical and which has been developed to ensure that local actions and outcomes are aligned with the psychological. respond to the national strategy.  Healthy Longford is committed to working with HSE Health Promotion and Improvement  Healthy Longford is committed to working with a supporting key stakeholders and all Service to create a ‘smoke free Longford’ through empowering smokers to engage with population groups in the implementation of the National Strategy for Women and Girls the HSE QUIT and local cessation services and restricting smoking in public places, in 2017-2020 Objective Two: Advance the Physical and Mental Health and Wellbeing of particular those managed by the Longford County Council. Women and Girls and Objective Five: Combat Violence Against Women.  Healthy Longford will engage with the Regional Drugs Task Force and community groups  Healthy Longford is committed to working with and supporting key stakeholders and in implementing initiatives to tackle substance abuse and support those in recovery. population groups in the implementation of the Second National Strategy on Domestic,  Ensure that the supply of alcohol is restricted or eliminated at events and festivals Sexual and Gender Based violence. supported by the Council.  Healthy Longford is committed to working with key stakeholders and all population groups  Healthy Longford is committed to working with local stakeholders to raise awareness and to identify particular needs and deliver programmes to support mental health and understanding of the direct links between domestic violence and substance abuse, as wellbeing in conjunction with the Healthy Ireland Fund. well as mental health issues.

Healthy Weight General Policy and Cross-Cutting Actions

The ‘Obesity Policy and Action Plan’ covers the period 2016 to 2025. The overall aim The key aim of the Healthy Ireland Initiative is to promote integrated planning through is to increase the number of people with a healthy weight and set us on a path where cross-sectoral working. The Healthy Ireland Initiative can act as a catalyst for healthy weight becomes the norm. The Healthy Longford Plan provides an Longford LCDC to engage further with local agencies and community groups to work opportunity to act and set the direction towards reversing the trend of increasing rates together to promote and improve health and wellbeing in our community. of obesity.  A Healthy Longford Steering Group will be established to oversee the development of the  – Healthy Longford is committed to targeting the factors that can contribute to weight gain Healthy Longford initiative and implementation and progress of the Healthy Longford including, but not limited to, lack of opportunity to engage in physical activity; access to Plan. Members of the Healthy Longford Steering Group will represent key stakeholders nutritious food; raising awareness of the impact of sedentary lifestyles and the availability and reflect the social determinants of health. This group will report to the LCDC. of convenience food. Through raising awareness among key stakeholders, lobbying for action at strategic level and supporting the implementation of the key policy A Healthy  Healthy Longford is committed to working in partnership with the elected representatives Weight for All. (Councillors) of Longford County Council to build their awareness of the social

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determinants of health, health inequalities and developing effective political responses to create a truly Healthy Longford. Section A: Commitment and Healthy Ireland  Empower and support community groups to work and engage with the Healthy Longford Framework Background initiative. Work with the Longford PPN to develop a ‘Community Health Champions’ programme. A1 Foreword  Apply for Healthy Cities and Counties status for County Longford and membership of the National Network of Healthy Cities and Counties of Ireland. Cllr Seamus Butler, Chairperson of Longford Local Community Development Committee Towards a Healthy County Longford There is universal political commitment, and the commitment of the Local Community The Healthy County Longford Plan supports the implementation of Healthy Ireland, the Development Committee to support the promotion of health and wellbeing of all in national health and wellbeing framework, at the local level to improve the health and County Longford. wellbeing of all in County Longford. Longford Community Development Committee acknowledges that the promotion of The Healthy County Longford Plan has been developed in the context of the Healthy Ireland 1 health and wellbeing is complex. This plan is a start to focus on these complexities, Framework; which is itself framed in the context of WHO Europe Health 2020 , a policy addressing the challenges of resources and barriers by focusing on making the most ‘focuses on improving health for all and reducing health inequalities, through framework that of local assets and identifying synergies and connections between existing networks improved leadership’ and governance for health. The Healthy Ireland Framework underpins policies and plans, and recognise the evolving nature of the plan with learning and a movement designed to bring together people and organisations to address the social, feedback. economic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of chronic disease and to address health inequalities. This framework, led and endorsed by government, sets The vision of the Healthy Longford Plan aligns with the aim of Healthy Ireland, the out the economic and societal benefits of protecting and maintaining health, preventing Government-led initiative that aims to create an Irish society where everyone can illness and intervening early. enjoy physical and mental health, and where wellbeing is valued and supported at every level of society. The Healthy Ireland framework aims to shift the focus to prevention, reduce health inequalities and emphasises the need to empower communities and people to look after their Healthy Ireland has come about because of concerns that the current health status of own health and wellbeing. The Healthy County Longford plan supports the implementation people living in Ireland – including lifestyle trends and health inequalities – is leading of Healthy Ireland, the national health and wellbeing framework, at the local level to improve us towards a future that is dangerously unhealthy, and very likely unaffordable. the health and wellbeing of all in County Longford. The many risks to the health and wellbeing of people living in County Longford include some that are obvious: issues such as overweight and obesity, mental health, Lifecycle Approach smoking, alcohol and drugs. Healthy Longford seeks to provide people and communities with accurate information on how to improve their health and wellbeing The Healthy Longford Plan has been developed within a lifecycle approach. This approach and seeks to empower and motivate them by making the healthy choice the easier places actions within the family envelope, recognising that the general improvement sought choice. under the Healthy Ireland Framework can best be achieved and sustained if there is the We also now know that many of the factors that influence a person’s health and maximum coherence across all of the age cohorts and differing communities that make up wellbeing, such as their education level, income, housing and work conditions are society in County Longford. determined by social, environmental and economic policies beyond the direct In this respect, the Healthy Longford Plan uses all of the tools currently available to the responsibility of the health sector. We understand that addressing the issues calls for county, including the diverse range of existing strategic plans such as the National Sexual a partnership approach in all the actions Healthy Longford is taking to achieve a – Health Strategy and the National Physical Activity Plan, amongst many others and the Social healthier county. The health sector alone cannot address these problems we must Inclusion Community Activation Programme (SICAP) which deals with addressing social collectively change our approach. inclusion barriers. This approach recognises that as people age, so their needs change. From this understanding follows the need for Healthy Longford to make provision for a range of supports and interventions reflecting the progress of the individual through life.

1 Health 2020: A European policy framework and strategy for the 21st century HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 9 22/08/2018 p10 amendment.docx Page 10 12/09/2018

115011(3) Turner PG.indd 10 18/10/2018 15:58 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 determinants of health, health inequalities and developing effective political responses to create a truly Healthy Longford. Section A: Commitment and Healthy Ireland  Empower and support community groups to work and engage with the Healthy Longford Framework Background initiative. Work with the Longford PPN to develop a ‘Community Health Champions’ programme. A1 Foreword  Apply for Healthy Cities and Counties status for County Longford and membership of the National Network of Healthy Cities and Counties of Ireland. Cllr Seamus Butler, Chairperson of Longford Local Community Development Committee Towards a Healthy County Longford There is universal political commitment, and the commitment of the Local Community The Healthy County Longford Plan supports the implementation of Healthy Ireland, the Development Committee to support the promotion of health and wellbeing of all in national health and wellbeing framework, at the local level to improve the health and County Longford. wellbeing of all in County Longford. Longford Community Development Committee acknowledges that the promotion of The Healthy County Longford Plan has been developed in the context of the Healthy Ireland 1 health and wellbeing is complex. This plan is a start to focus on these complexities, Framework; which is itself framed in the context of WHO Europe Health 2020 , a policy addressing the challenges of resources and barriers by focusing on making the most ‘focuses on improving health for all and reducing health inequalities, through framework that of local assets and identifying synergies and connections between existing networks improved leadership’ and governance for health. The Healthy Ireland Framework underpins policies and plans, and recognise the evolving nature of the plan with learning and a movement designed to bring together people and organisations to address the social, feedback. economic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of chronic disease and to address health inequalities. This framework, led and endorsed by government, sets The vision of the Healthy Longford Plan aligns with the aim of Healthy Ireland, the out the economic and societal benefits of protecting and maintaining health, preventing Government-led initiative that aims to create an Irish society where everyone can illness and intervening early. enjoy physical and mental health, and where wellbeing is valued and supported at every level of society. The Healthy Ireland framework aims to shift the focus to prevention, reduce health inequalities and emphasises the need to empower communities and people to look after their Healthy Ireland has come about because of concerns that the current health status of own health and wellbeing. The Healthy County Longford plan supports the implementation people living in Ireland – including lifestyle trends and health inequalities – is leading of Healthy Ireland, the national health and wellbeing framework, at the local level to improve us towards a future that is dangerously unhealthy, and very likely unaffordable. the health and wellbeing of all in County Longford. The many risks to the health and wellbeing of people living in County Longford include some that are obvious: issues such as overweight and obesity, mental health, Lifecycle Approach smoking, alcohol and drugs. Healthy Longford seeks to provide people and communities with accurate information on how to improve their health and wellbeing The Healthy Longford Plan has been developed within a lifecycle approach. This approach and seeks to empower and motivate them by making the healthy choice the easier places actions within the family envelope, recognising that the general improvement sought choice. under the Healthy Ireland Framework can best be achieved and sustained if there is the We also now know that many of the factors that influence a person’s health and maximum coherence across all of the age cohorts and differing communities that make up wellbeing, such as their education level, income, housing and work conditions are society in County Longford. determined by social, environmental and economic policies beyond the direct In this respect, the Healthy Longford Plan uses all of the tools currently available to the responsibility of the health sector. We understand that addressing the issues calls for county, including the diverse range of existing strategic plans such as the National Sexual a partnership approach in all the actions Healthy Longford is taking to achieve a – Health Strategy and the National Physical Activity Plan, amongst many others and the Social healthier county. The health sector alone cannot address these problems we must Inclusion Community Activation Programme (SICAP) which deals with addressing social collectively change our approach. inclusion barriers. This approach recognises that as people age, so their needs change. From this understanding follows the need for Healthy Longford to make provision for a range of supports and interventions reflecting the progress of the individual through life.

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A2 Foreword A3 Healthy Ireland Framework Cllr. Martin Mulleady, Cathaoirleach Longford County Council The Healthy Ireland Framework introduces a vision where ‘everyone can enjoy physical Mr. Paddy Mahon, Chief Executive, Longford County Council. and mental health and wellbeing to their full potential, where wellbeing is valued and supported at every level of society and is everyone’s responsibility.’

Healthy Ireland, the government framework for action to improve the health and wellbeing of The four interlinked, interdependent and mutually supportive goals of Healthy Ireland people living in Ireland over the coming generations was launched in March, 2013. Healthy are as follows: - Ireland sets out a wide framework of actions that will be undertaken by Government o Goal 1: Increase the proportion of people who are healthy at all stages of life; Departments, public sector organisations, businesses, communities and individuals to improve health and wellbeing and reduce the risks posed to future generations. o Goal 2: Reduce health inequalities; o Goal 3: Protect the public from threats to health and wellbeing; and The aim of the Plan is to increase physical activity levels across the entire population thereby

improving the health and wellbeing of people living in Ireland, where everybody will be o Goal 4: Create an environment where every individual and sector of society can physically active and where everybody lives, works and plays in a society that facilitates, play their part in achieving a healthy Ireland. promotes and support physical activity and an active way of life and less time spent being Figure 1 – Healthy Ireland Framework sedentary.

The aim of the Healthy Longford Plan is to “create an “Irish society where everyone can enjoy physical and mental health, and where wellbeing is valued and supported at every level of society”.

The aim of this plan is to distil the Healthy Ireland Strategy into a local plan with local devised actions that will create a Longford Community where everyone can enjoy and benefit from physical and mental health wellbeing.

Goal 1 aims to improve levels of health and wellbeing at all stages of a person’s life, to decrease the prevalence of unhealthy behaviours that contribute to chronic disease and to increase the degree to which diseases and conditions are either prevented, or detected early to allow for successful intervention. Goal 2 requires a focus on reducing the gaps between the highest and lowest occupational classes and socio-economic groups, and between the wealthiest and most deprived areas, in order to reduce health inequalities. This will require complex solutions that reach across sectors and create economic, social, cultural and physical environments that foster healthy living, supported by socially targeted interventions that address the specific needs of at-risk groups. Goal 3 aims to ensure that Ireland has effective and integrated strategies and interventions to protect the public from new and emerging threats to health and wellbeing. Goal 4 recognises the need for relationships to be built between sectors and their roles acknowledged in addressing the determinants of health and wellbeing. These

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A2 Foreword A3 Healthy Ireland Framework Cllr. Martin Mulleady, Cathaoirleach Longford County Council The Healthy Ireland Framework introduces a vision where ‘everyone can enjoy physical Mr. Paddy Mahon, Chief Executive, Longford County Council. and mental health and wellbeing to their full potential, where wellbeing is valued and supported at every level of society and is everyone’s responsibility.’

Healthy Ireland, the government framework for action to improve the health and wellbeing of The four interlinked, interdependent and mutually supportive goals of Healthy Ireland people living in Ireland over the coming generations was launched in March, 2013. Healthy are as follows: - Ireland sets out a wide framework of actions that will be undertaken by Government o Goal 1: Increase the proportion of people who are healthy at all stages of life; Departments, public sector organisations, businesses, communities and individuals to improve health and wellbeing and reduce the risks posed to future generations. o Goal 2: Reduce health inequalities; o Goal 3: Protect the public from threats to health and wellbeing; and The aim of the Plan is to increase physical activity levels across the entire population thereby improving the health and wellbeing of people living in Ireland, where everybody will be o Goal 4: Create an environment where every individual and sector of society can physically active and where everybody lives, works and plays in a society that facilitates, play their part in achieving a healthy Ireland. promotes and support physical activity and an active way of life and less time spent being Figure 1 – Healthy Ireland Framework sedentary.

The aim of the Healthy Longford Plan is to “create an “Irish society where everyone can enjoy physical and mental health, and where wellbeing is valued and supported at every level of society”.

The aim of this plan is to distil the Healthy Ireland Strategy into a local plan with local devised actions that will create a Longford Community where everyone can enjoy and benefit from physical and mental health wellbeing.

Goal 1 aims to improve levels of health and wellbeing at all stages of a person’s life, to decrease the prevalence of unhealthy behaviours that contribute to chronic disease and to increase the degree to which diseases and conditions are either prevented, or detected early to allow for successful intervention. Goal 2 requires a focus on reducing the gaps between the highest and lowest occupational classes and socio-economic groups, and between the wealthiest and most deprived areas, in order to reduce health inequalities. This will require complex solutions that reach across sectors and create economic, social, cultural and physical environments that foster healthy living, supported by socially targeted interventions that address the specific needs of at-risk groups. Goal 3 aims to ensure that Ireland has effective and integrated strategies and interventions to protect the public from new and emerging threats to health and wellbeing. Goal 4 recognises the need for relationships to be built between sectors and their roles acknowledged in addressing the determinants of health and wellbeing. These

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partnerships must be developed between Government Departments, across sectors and within the community. Section B: Vision for Healthy Longford

A3.1 Healthy Longford Aim The vision for Healthy Longford is one where everyone can enjoy physical and mental health and wellbeing to their full potential, where wellbeing is The aim of Healthy Longford Plan is to provide an evidence-based, inclusive, valued and supported at every level of society and is everyone’s outcome-focused, strategically aligned plan that is targeted at disadvantaged responsibility. communities and other vulnerable groups that experience health inequalities but also beneficial to the wider population. The strategy is designed to be collaborative and cross-sectoral in nature, and include The vision supports the overall objective of Longford Local Economic and Community a health needs assessment. Plan, which is to work collaboratively to make County Longford a strong, sustainable and a vibrant place to live, work and invest. The Healthy Longford Pan has been developed by the LCDC Healthy Ireland Steering Group, and has involved the implementation of a consultation workshop process and The Longford LECP is also titled the ‘Unity’ Plan as it provides an integrated a health needs assessment framework. It has been informed by desktop research framework for economic and local community development in County Longford and focussed on healthy Ireland policies and priorities, and references the health needs has a vision for a regenerated economically sustainable County that values equality of analysis contained in a raft of relevant local plans. opportunity, excellent quality of life, collaborative community and rural development, sense of place and where the wellbeing of all residents and future generations is A process of triangulated analysis was used to review the data and evidence to central to everything we do. develop the prioritised actions that underpin the strategy. The Healthy Longford Plan has been developed in close consultation with the LCDC Healthy Ireland Steering The Plan aims to identify and deliver positive changes that will deliver the economic Group representatives. and social transformation of Longford in accordance with the following guiding principles to:

 Create a framework for a strong economic and community strategy for County Longford;  Grow the local and regional economy by creating more and better-quality jobs through inward investment and supporting indigenous enterprise;  Strengthen County Longford's role in the Midland Region;  Ensure that everyone realises their potential and has the necessary skills and training to take up these jobs, particularly for those experiencing unemployment;  Promoting a more resource efficient, green and sustainable economy;  Ensure that all our people have an excellent quality of life;  Ensure that our communities are strong, engaged and working together;  Ensure inclusive community consultation, participation, empowerment and collective decision-making to achieve change at local level;  Maximise returns – avoiding unnecessary overlap and duplication and achieving synergies through co-operation; and  Promotion and mainstreaming of equality.

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115011(3) Turner PG.indd 14 18/10/2018 15:58 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 partnerships must be developed between Government Departments, across sectors and within the community. Section B: Vision for Healthy Longford

A3.1 Healthy Longford Aim The vision for Healthy Longford is one where everyone can enjoy physical and mental health and wellbeing to their full potential, where wellbeing is The aim of Healthy Longford Plan is to provide an evidence-based, inclusive, valued and supported at every level of society and is everyone’s outcome-focused, strategically aligned plan that is targeted at disadvantaged responsibility. communities and other vulnerable groups that experience health inequalities but also beneficial to the wider population. The strategy is designed to be collaborative and cross-sectoral in nature, and include The vision supports the overall objective of Longford Local Economic and Community a health needs assessment. Plan, which is to work collaboratively to make County Longford a strong, sustainable and a vibrant place to live, work and invest. The Healthy Longford Pan has been developed by the LCDC Healthy Ireland Steering Group, and has involved the implementation of a consultation workshop process and The Longford LECP is also titled the ‘Unity’ Plan as it provides an integrated a health needs assessment framework. It has been informed by desktop research framework for economic and local community development in County Longford and focussed on healthy Ireland policies and priorities, and references the health needs has a vision for a regenerated economically sustainable County that values equality of analysis contained in a raft of relevant local plans. opportunity, excellent quality of life, collaborative community and rural development, sense of place and where the wellbeing of all residents and future generations is A process of triangulated analysis was used to review the data and evidence to central to everything we do. develop the prioritised actions that underpin the strategy. The Healthy Longford Plan has been developed in close consultation with the LCDC Healthy Ireland Steering The Plan aims to identify and deliver positive changes that will deliver the economic Group representatives. and social transformation of Longford in accordance with the following guiding principles to:

 Create a framework for a strong economic and community strategy for County Longford;  Grow the local and regional economy by creating more and better-quality jobs through inward investment and supporting indigenous enterprise;  Strengthen County Longford's role in the Midland Region;  Ensure that everyone realises their potential and has the necessary skills and training to take up these jobs, particularly for those experiencing unemployment;  Promoting a more resource efficient, green and sustainable economy;  Ensure that all our people have an excellent quality of life;  Ensure that our communities are strong, engaged and working together;  Ensure inclusive community consultation, participation, empowerment and collective decision-making to achieve change at local level;  Maximise returns – avoiding unnecessary overlap and duplication and achieving synergies through co-operation; and  Promotion and mainstreaming of equality.

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Section C: County Profile Education County Longford is centrally and strategically located in the Midlands of Ireland providing ease of access to national and international destinations. It is a strategic transport hub In 2016, a similar proportion of the total located on two National Primary Routes; the N4 from Dublin to Sligo and the N5 from Dublin population of Longford reported no formal or to Mayo. Secondary routes also cross the County including the N55 linking Athlone and primary education, or having primary Cavan into Northern Ireland, and the N63 linking Longford with Roscommon and Galway. education only, compared to the State. The County is also serviced by the Dublin to Sligo Inter-City railway line with two stations; In terms of the DEIS programme, there are Longford Town and Edgeworthstown. Longford Town is centrally located within the county five primary schools (Scoil Naomh Micheal, St Josephs Convent, The Sacred Heart Primary and serves a wide catchment area. N.S., Gaelscoil An Longfoirt, St Emer's National School listed in Primary Urban Band 1, and From a natural amenity perspective County Longford lies in the basin of the River Shannon also four rural primary DEIS schools (St Matthews Mixed, Scoil Naofa An Leana Mor, St and Lough Ree and has some of Ireland’s oldest and best-preserved peatlands. Other Marys Mixed, Naomh Treasa, Fermoyle Mixed, St Marys natural amenities include the Royal Canal, River Camlin, Lough Gowna, Newcastle and Longford also has four post-primary DEIS schools (Ballymahon Vocational School, Ardscoil Derrycassan Forest. Phadraig, Granard, Lanesboro Community College, Templemichael College). In 2016 County Longford was the second smallest county (measured by population) in the State at In 2016 all but three of the electoral divisions in Longford had over 20% with third-level 40,873 (CSO Census of Population). The county was the fourth smallest of the 32 counties in area education, with over 35% for six of the divisions. (1,091 sq. km). County Longford’s population growth during the period 2002-2006 Housing (10.6%) was stronger than that of the State at 8.2%. In the intercensal In 2016 the CSO Census of Population confirmed that there were period 2011-2016, the population of the county grew by 4.8% compared 15,122 households comprised of 40.775 persons in Longford. to the State at 3.8% (slowest rate of growth in twenty years). Pobal’s Early Years Sector Profile recorded that the availability of childcare Affluence and Disadvantage places (vacancies) as a percentage of numbers enrolled for age cohort 3yrs+ to 4½ yrs (37-54 months) in There were no EDs in County Longford in 2016 that were classified as either Extremely Longford was 3% compared to 10% Disadvantaged or Very Disadvantaged. A total of 5,635 persons were living in EDs that were nationally & recorded Longford as one of classified as Disadvantaged in 2016. It is recognised that consideration of relative two counties with the lowest availability in disadvantage at electoral division level might mask smaller pockets to be typically found in the State, and the highest was Mayo with smaller localised estates or community clusters. 19%. The population growth that has been experienced in Co Longford can be largely attributed to external Ethnicity and internal migration (due to Longford’s proximity to Dublin) as well as a natural increase in The 2016 Census revealed that there were 6022 non-Irish nationals resident in County population. Longford, an increase of 502 (9.1%) on 2011, 14.75% of the population of County Longford In 2016, the county had a population density of 37.4 persons per sq. km, compared to the state at 70 compared with a national figure of 11.42%. Longford had a relatively high proportion of persons per sq. km indicating a relatively high level of White Irish Traveller population (2.5%) and Other White population (11.8%) in 2016. The population dispersal in the county, locally giving rise to the areas with the highest percentage of ethnic minorities are Longford town, Edgeworthstown, issues of social inclusion and rural isolation. Granard and Ballymahon; with lesser but increasing numbers now also living in the Newtownforbes, Lanesboro and Drumlish areas. The county had the highest proportion of Age Profile non-Irish national children in the country, at a rate of 118.3 per 1,000, higher than Dublin 2 In Census 2016, County Longford returned 62.5% of the County at 97.0 and the national average of 82.5 . population (25,541) as being aged between 15-64 years (working population), which was lower than the State at 65% (3,117,746). Further analysis of the age profile reveals that the proportion of people Single Parent Families aged 75 years and older was higher in County Longford at 5.7% (2,321) than the State figure of 5.5% There were 2,010 single parent family households in Longford in 2016. Of these, 86% (264,059). comprised of lone mothers, and 14% of lone fathers. Age dependency the number of younger (0-14) and older (65+) people as a percentage of those of working age (15-64) is three points higher in Longford (37.5%) than the State (34.5%).

2 This data is taken from A Social Profile of County Longford in the Longford and Westmeath Education and Training Board Information Pack HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 15 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 16 22/08/2018

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Section C: County Profile Education County Longford is centrally and strategically located in the Midlands of Ireland providing ease of access to national and international destinations. It is a strategic transport hub In 2016, a similar proportion of the total located on two National Primary Routes; the N4 from Dublin to Sligo and the N5 from Dublin population of Longford reported no formal or to Mayo. Secondary routes also cross the County including the N55 linking Athlone and primary education, or having primary Cavan into Northern Ireland, and the N63 linking Longford with Roscommon and Galway. education only, compared to the State. The County is also serviced by the Dublin to Sligo Inter-City railway line with two stations; In terms of the DEIS programme, there are Longford Town and Edgeworthstown. Longford Town is centrally located within the county five primary schools (Scoil Naomh Micheal, St Josephs Convent, The Sacred Heart Primary and serves a wide catchment area. N.S., Gaelscoil An Longfoirt, St Emer's National School listed in Primary Urban Band 1, and From a natural amenity perspective County Longford lies in the basin of the River Shannon also four rural primary DEIS schools (St Matthews Mixed, Scoil Naofa An Leana Mor, St and Lough Ree and has some of Ireland’s oldest and best-preserved peatlands. Other Marys Mixed, Naomh Treasa, Fermoyle Mixed, St Marys natural amenities include the Royal Canal, River Camlin, Lough Gowna, Newcastle and Longford also has four post-primary DEIS schools (Ballymahon Vocational School, Ardscoil Derrycassan Forest. Phadraig, Granard, Lanesboro Community College, Templemichael College). In 2016 County Longford was the second smallest county (measured by population) in the State at In 2016 all but three of the electoral divisions in Longford had over 20% with third-level 40,873 (CSO Census of Population). The county was the fourth smallest of the 32 counties in area education, with over 35% for six of the divisions. (1,091 sq. km). County Longford’s population growth during the period 2002-2006 Housing (10.6%) was stronger than that of the State at 8.2%. In the intercensal In 2016 the CSO Census of Population confirmed that there were period 2011-2016, the population of the county grew by 4.8% compared 15,122 households comprised of 40.775 persons in Longford. to the State at 3.8% (slowest rate of growth in twenty years). Pobal’s Early Years Sector Profile recorded that the availability of childcare Affluence and Disadvantage places (vacancies) as a percentage of numbers enrolled for age cohort 3yrs+ to 4½ yrs (37-54 months) in There were no EDs in County Longford in 2016 that were classified as either Extremely Longford was 3% compared to 10% Disadvantaged or Very Disadvantaged. A total of 5,635 persons were living in EDs that were nationally & recorded Longford as one of classified as Disadvantaged in 2016. It is recognised that consideration of relative two counties with the lowest availability in disadvantage at electoral division level might mask smaller pockets to be typically found in the State, and the highest was Mayo with smaller localised estates or community clusters. 19%. The population growth that has been experienced in Co Longford can be largely attributed to external Ethnicity and internal migration (due to Longford’s proximity to Dublin) as well as a natural increase in The 2016 Census revealed that there were 6022 non-Irish nationals resident in County population. Longford, an increase of 502 (9.1%) on 2011, 14.75% of the population of County Longford In 2016, the county had a population density of 37.4 persons per sq. km, compared to the state at 70 compared with a national figure of 11.42%. Longford had a relatively high proportion of persons per sq. km indicating a relatively high level of White Irish Traveller population (2.5%) and Other White population (11.8%) in 2016. The population dispersal in the county, locally giving rise to the areas with the highest percentage of ethnic minorities are Longford town, Edgeworthstown, issues of social inclusion and rural isolation. Granard and Ballymahon; with lesser but increasing numbers now also living in the Newtownforbes, Lanesboro and Drumlish areas. The county had the highest proportion of Age Profile non-Irish national children in the country, at a rate of 118.3 per 1,000, higher than Dublin 2 In Census 2016, County Longford returned 62.5% of the County at 97.0 and the national average of 82.5 . population (25,541) as being aged between 15-64 years (working population), which was lower than the State at 65% (3,117,746). Further analysis of the age profile reveals that the proportion of people Single Parent Families aged 75 years and older was higher in County Longford at 5.7% (2,321) than the State figure of 5.5% There were 2,010 single parent family households in Longford in 2016. Of these, 86% (264,059). comprised of lone mothers, and 14% of lone fathers. Age dependency the number of younger (0-14) and older (65+) people as a percentage of those of working age (15-64) is three points higher in Longford (37.5%) than the State (34.5%).

2 This data is taken from A Social Profile of County Longford in the Longford and Westmeath Education and Training Board Information Pack HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 15 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 16 22/08/2018

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County Health Profile Labour Market Key Facts Co Longford had a rate of unemployment that was some 2% above the State in 2016, together with a 1.35% higher rate of the population aged 15 and over who were unable to The following are the key facts from HSE County Longford Health Profile 2015: work due to permanent sickness or disability. Longford is the 4th most deprived local authority area nationally, with 88% of its population either below average affluence or disadvantaged; Longford has a high percentage of those with no formal or primary education only of 19.3% (national average 15.2%), unemployment of 24.7% (national 19.0%), households that are local authority rented of 13.6% (national average 7.8%); The Traveller population of County Longford at 1.9% is above the national rate of 0.7%; The birth rate to females under 20 years of age of 17.1 is above the national average of 12.3; Cancer incidence is either average or below average for all cancers and the main causes of cancer except for male prostate cancer, which is above the national average; Mortality rates for all deaths and the main causes of death are average or below the national average except for respiratory deaths, which was the highest nationally in 2012. Birth Rate Longford had a 4.9% birth rate increase in comparison to 2.3% for the state in 2016. The birth rate to females under 20 years of age of 17.1 is almost 5 points above the national average of 12.3. Disability In 2016 there were 5,916 persons with a disability in County Longford, which means the proportion of disabled persons in the county (14.5%) is one percentage point higher than the national figure (13.5%). Intellectual Disability The 2016 Annual Report of the Health Research Board - National Intellectual Disability Database (NIDD) Committee – provides a national record of the number of people registered on the NIDD with an intellectual disability. Longford has 227 registrations out of a total population of 40.873, thereby giving a prevalence rate of 0.76%.

Longford Sports Partnership Sports Hall Athletics Initiative funded by Healthy Ireland.

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County Health Profile Labour Market Key Facts Co Longford had a rate of unemployment that was some 2% above the State in 2016, together with a 1.35% higher rate of the population aged 15 and over who were unable to The following are the key facts from HSE County Longford Health Profile 2015: work due to permanent sickness or disability. Longford is the 4th most deprived local authority area nationally, with 88% of its population either below average affluence or disadvantaged; Longford has a high percentage of those with no formal or primary education only of 19.3% (national average 15.2%), unemployment of 24.7% (national 19.0%), households that are local authority rented of 13.6% (national average 7.8%); The Traveller population of County Longford at 1.9% is above the national rate of 0.7%; The birth rate to females under 20 years of age of 17.1 is above the national average of 12.3; Cancer incidence is either average or below average for all cancers and the main causes of cancer except for male prostate cancer, which is above the national average; Mortality rates for all deaths and the main causes of death are average or below the national average except for respiratory deaths, which was the highest nationally in 2012. Birth Rate Longford had a 4.9% birth rate increase in comparison to 2.3% for the state in 2016. The birth rate to females under 20 years of age of 17.1 is almost 5 points above the national average of 12.3. Disability In 2016 there were 5,916 persons with a disability in County Longford, which means the proportion of disabled persons in the county (14.5%) is one percentage point higher than the national figure (13.5%). Intellectual Disability The 2016 Annual Report of the Health Research Board - National Intellectual Disability Database (NIDD) Committee – provides a national record of the number of people registered on the NIDD with an intellectual disability. Longford has 227 registrations out of a total population of 40.873, thereby giving a prevalence rate of 0.76%.

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HSE Midlands Louth Meath Community Health Organisation (CHO) Regional Services Section D: Strategic Priorities and Connections and Longford Children and Young People Services Committee. There is also a significant interlinking role for Healthy Longford between Longford and Westmeath The development of county plans with respect to health and wellbeing reflects core Education and Training Board, and Schools and Colleges in terms of the education concerns about current health and wellbeing status, some relating strongly to lifestyle sector. trends and others to health inequalities among disadvantaged of excluded populations. D1 Healthy Ireland: Strategic Priorities The fall-off in rates of physical activity, mental health issues, obesity, smoking and alcohol are some of the issues and health inequalities compounded by deprivation or D1.1 Key Policies and Actions exclusion. The health determinants model that is a core reference for public health generally and Over the past number of years significant work has been undertaken, in consultation in terms of Healthy Ireland relate to the social, economic, environmental, physical and with the public, in developing national policies and plans. political factors that impact health. These factors are beyond the relatively narrow Table 1 – Key National Policies and Actions scope and remit of the acute health services, even if they also link strongly with Health Promotion activities of the HSE. Priority Area National Policy and Actions Physical Activity Get Ireland Active - National Physical Activity Plan Through the Healthy Longford Plan, partners on the LCDC and in the community and Get Ireland Walking – Strategy and Action Plan (2010 – 2017) voluntary sector are given a more formal role in addressing some of the (mainly) Healthy Weight A Healthy Weight for Ireland – Obesity and Policy Action social and physical factors and in addressing these particularly to those at risk of Tobacco Free Tobacco Free Ireland health inequalities. Many of the actions are therefore universal and aimed at Sexual Health National Sexual Health Strategy (2015 – 2020) prevention. The most relevant of these factors to actions at County Level include: - Prevention and reduction Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery: A health-led response to drug and alcohol use in Ireland 2017-2020 of alcohol-related harm Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence.  Social Cohesion Mental Health Connecting for Life: Irelands National Strategy to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020.  Health Related behaviours (many of the HI themes) Connecting for Life: Midlands Louth Meath Suicide Prevention Action Plan. National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020.  Social supports and neighbourhood With a focus on the implementation of these plans, there is recognition that these  Personal safety policies and plans have to be integrated and implemented at local level. The Longford  Food Production and availability Local Community Development Committee is ideally placed to understand local needs and issues, and also the community assets and networks unique to County Longford.  Social Capital and Networks.

Another key Healthy Ireland dimension is to relate plans for healthy counties to the life D1.2 Physical Activity cycle of the population with promotion and support to encourage people to be more active, more involved and to engage in healthy lifestyle behaviours. Table 2 -LECP Committed Actions to 2021

The strategy for Healthy Longford is drawn from and augments the County Longford Theme Physical Activity Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP) (2016-2022). It references the Healthy Theme No. Action Ireland high level goals and themes, noted below, through which suggested actions Page 4: Tourism Develop a thriving tourism sector that contributes significantly to economic, social and cultural development are filtered. Healthy Longford is derived from the overall objective of the plan, which is C2.1.11 Designate as a priority the development of a comprehensive Youth Work Plan for the County to work collaboratively to make County Longford a strong, sustainable and a vibrant C3.1.9 Implementation of the ‘Longford Sports Partnership Strategy’ place to live, work and invest. Further specific references to objectives within the C6.4.5 Investigate the feasibility of the provision of modern sports campus in Higginstown, Granard strategy relate to the objective ‘Ensure that all our people have an excellent quality of C2.1.13 Provide relevant supports to youth groups and clubs life’. Specific actions, where relevant, are contained in the themes below. C3.1.13 Promote and expand specific programmes targeted at improving mental health such as ‘Communities on the Move’ Longford Local Community Development Committee has been tasked with implementing the plan, with relevant agency leadership anticipated across specific themes. Longford Public Participation Network, as the representative body of the National Physical Activity Plan for Ireland: Get Ireland Active! community and voluntary sector in the county, is anticipated to play a significant role within the Plan. Other key agency collaboration is anticipated from the Longford Local The National Physical Activity Plan (NPAP) for Ireland notes that ‘there is strong Sports Partnership, Longford Community Resources CLG, Longford Women’s Link, evidence to support the multiple benefits of physical activity to health and wellbeing. It HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 19 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 20 22/08/2018

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HSE Midlands Louth Meath Community Health Organisation (CHO) Regional Services Section D: Strategic Priorities and Connections and Longford Children and Young People Services Committee. There is also a significant interlinking role for Healthy Longford between Longford and Westmeath The development of county plans with respect to health and wellbeing reflects core Education and Training Board, and Schools and Colleges in terms of the education concerns about current health and wellbeing status, some relating strongly to lifestyle sector. trends and others to health inequalities among disadvantaged of excluded populations. D1 Healthy Ireland: Strategic Priorities The fall-off in rates of physical activity, mental health issues, obesity, smoking and alcohol are some of the issues and health inequalities compounded by deprivation or D1.1 Key Policies and Actions exclusion. The health determinants model that is a core reference for public health generally and Over the past number of years significant work has been undertaken, in consultation in terms of Healthy Ireland relate to the social, economic, environmental, physical and with the public, in developing national policies and plans. political factors that impact health. These factors are beyond the relatively narrow Table 1 – Key National Policies and Actions scope and remit of the acute health services, even if they also link strongly with Health Promotion activities of the HSE. Priority Area National Policy and Actions Physical Activity Get Ireland Active - National Physical Activity Plan Through the Healthy Longford Plan, partners on the LCDC and in the community and Get Ireland Walking – Strategy and Action Plan (2010 – 2017) voluntary sector are given a more formal role in addressing some of the (mainly) Healthy Weight A Healthy Weight for Ireland – Obesity and Policy Action social and physical factors and in addressing these particularly to those at risk of Tobacco Free Tobacco Free Ireland health inequalities. Many of the actions are therefore universal and aimed at Sexual Health National Sexual Health Strategy (2015 – 2020) prevention. The most relevant of these factors to actions at County Level include: - Prevention and reduction Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery: A health-led response to drug and alcohol use in Ireland 2017-2020 of alcohol-related harm Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence.  Social Cohesion Mental Health Connecting for Life: Irelands National Strategy to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020.  Health Related behaviours (many of the HI themes) Connecting for Life: Midlands Louth Meath Suicide Prevention Action Plan. National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020.  Social supports and neighbourhood With a focus on the implementation of these plans, there is recognition that these  Personal safety policies and plans have to be integrated and implemented at local level. The Longford  Food Production and availability Local Community Development Committee is ideally placed to understand local needs and issues, and also the community assets and networks unique to County Longford.  Social Capital and Networks.

Another key Healthy Ireland dimension is to relate plans for healthy counties to the life D1.2 Physical Activity cycle of the population with promotion and support to encourage people to be more active, more involved and to engage in healthy lifestyle behaviours. Table 2 -LECP Committed Actions to 2021

The strategy for Healthy Longford is drawn from and augments the County Longford Theme Physical Activity Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP) (2016-2022). It references the Healthy Theme No. Action Ireland high level goals and themes, noted below, through which suggested actions Page 4: Tourism Develop a thriving tourism sector that contributes significantly to economic, social and cultural development are filtered. Healthy Longford is derived from the overall objective of the plan, which is C2.1.11 Designate as a priority the development of a comprehensive Youth Work Plan for the County to work collaboratively to make County Longford a strong, sustainable and a vibrant C3.1.9 Implementation of the ‘Longford Sports Partnership Strategy’ place to live, work and invest. Further specific references to objectives within the C6.4.5 Investigate the feasibility of the provision of modern sports campus in Higginstown, Granard strategy relate to the objective ‘Ensure that all our people have an excellent quality of C2.1.13 Provide relevant supports to youth groups and clubs life’. Specific actions, where relevant, are contained in the themes below. C3.1.13 Promote and expand specific programmes targeted at improving mental health such as ‘Communities on the Move’ Longford Local Community Development Committee has been tasked with implementing the plan, with relevant agency leadership anticipated across specific themes. Longford Public Participation Network, as the representative body of the National Physical Activity Plan for Ireland: Get Ireland Active! community and voluntary sector in the county, is anticipated to play a significant role within the Plan. Other key agency collaboration is anticipated from the Longford Local The National Physical Activity Plan (NPAP) for Ireland notes that ‘there is strong Sports Partnership, Longford Community Resources CLG, Longford Women’s Link, evidence to support the multiple benefits of physical activity to health and wellbeing. It HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 19 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 20 22/08/2018

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promotes healthy growth and development in children and young people. It contributes to Longford Local Sports Partnership Strategy cognitive function. It is important for healthy ageing and helps to maintain quality of life and independence when we grow older. It is also a preventative factor for many non-communicable The vision and mission encompasses people awareness and encouragement to diseases. On the other hand, physical inactivity is a demonstrated clear risk to health and participate. The second element envisages partnering with others to ensure diverse wellbeing in Ireland. Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviours are associated with and inclusive sports and physical opportunities in the county. numerous chronic diseases. With people no longer as physically active as they should be, there The Longford LSP Strategy is founded on four strategic pillars: are many threats to our health and wellbeing from being inactive.’ 1. Creating Opportunities: focuses on the participant in relation to supporting growth The NPAP identifies eight areas for action: - in the range of sports and physical activities that are available in the county. Three 1. Public Awareness, Education and Communication; life cycle tiers reflect the national priority of engagement with children and young 2. Children and Young People; people. The third life-cycle tier relates to active participation of adults and older adults. 3. Health; 2. Strengthening Resources: focuses on sports infrastructure, including the

4. Environment; important role of pre-school, schools and clubs reflecting life cycle emphasis in 5. Workplaces; introducing and fostering sports participation. There is an important element 6. Sport and Physical Activity in the Community; relating to capacity building and supporting volunteers and the clubs/organisations 7. Research, Monitoring and Evaluation; and to which they are attached. Physical environment is also included in this pillar. 8. Implementation through Partnership 3. Increasing Awareness: focuses on information and promotion to ease engagement and participation among all community members. Connecting The NPAP has a suite of sixty actions and each of these links relevant agencies as opportunities with participants, especially in harder to reach groups is important. partners in delivery. Collaboration and partnership is the fundamental pillar in deliver of this plan and in terms of the Healthy Ireland Framework. This focus continues at 4. Organisation of Sport: focuses on partnership and collaboration, the relationships County level in the LECP and as a pillar in the draft Sports Partnership Strategy. among all stakeholders to grow the vision and make best use of collective resources. The role and responsibility of Longford LSP in the context of national and local strategies is also included in this pillar. National Physical Activity Plan – Summary of Relevant Actions

Actions relating to schools and young people are prioritised with a focus on the Active Get Ireland Walking Strategy and Action Plan 2017-2020 school flag programme and a focus to ensure that strategies relating to children and youth contain actions to promote physical activity. Get Ireland Walking is an initiative of Sport Ireland, and is supported by Healthy Ireland and delivered by Mountaineering Ireland. The core aim is to unify and enable The role of local authorities in ensuring that the physical environment facilitates the efforts of all agencies and organisations interested in promoting walking. participation in terms of walking and cycling and a network of cycle routes and footpaths and also the development of local and regional parks and recreational Get Ireland Walking comprises of seven themes: - spaces that encourage physical activity. The development of Community Sport and 1. Public Awareness, Education and Communication aims to create accessible Physical Activity Hubs in disadvantaged areas is also anticipation. walking-related information and spread a positive walking message; The provision of programmes is anticipated in actions relating to Active Communities 2. Children and Young People aims to provide children and young people with Walking Programmes and the development of new Get Ireland Running, Get Ireland increased opportunities to be physically active through walking; Cycling, Get Ireland Swimming initiatives. 3. Health aims to acknowledge and promote walking as a health-enhancing activity; Support for the existing sports infrastructure is anticipated including supporting

effective transition between stages of participation; there is also a focus on 4. Environment aims to connect walkers with suitable walking environments and broadening the provision of ‘new’ sports to ensure greater choice. advocate for improved pedestrian infrastructure and recreational walking routes;

Actions relating to effective administration, measurement and evaluation are aimed at 5. Communities aims to develop and support vibrant and sustainable walking ensuring there is an effective research and knowledge framework to inform ongoing communities; and targeted development. 6. Research, Monitoring and Evaluation aims to provide an evidence-base for the promotion of walking; and

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115011(3) Turner PG.indd 22 18/10/2018 15:58 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 promotes healthy growth and development in children and young people. It contributes to Longford Local Sports Partnership Strategy cognitive function. It is important for healthy ageing and helps to maintain quality of life and independence when we grow older. It is also a preventative factor for many non-communicable The vision and mission encompasses people awareness and encouragement to diseases. On the other hand, physical inactivity is a demonstrated clear risk to health and participate. The second element envisages partnering with others to ensure diverse wellbeing in Ireland. Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviours are associated with and inclusive sports and physical opportunities in the county. numerous chronic diseases. With people no longer as physically active as they should be, there The Longford LSP Strategy is founded on four strategic pillars: are many threats to our health and wellbeing from being inactive.’ 1. Creating Opportunities: focuses on the participant in relation to supporting growth The NPAP identifies eight areas for action: - in the range of sports and physical activities that are available in the county. Three 1. Public Awareness, Education and Communication; life cycle tiers reflect the national priority of engagement with children and young 2. Children and Young People; people. The third life-cycle tier relates to active participation of adults and older adults. 3. Health; 2. Strengthening Resources: focuses on sports infrastructure, including the

4. Environment; important role of pre-school, schools and clubs reflecting life cycle emphasis in 5. Workplaces; introducing and fostering sports participation. There is an important element 6. Sport and Physical Activity in the Community; relating to capacity building and supporting volunteers and the clubs/organisations 7. Research, Monitoring and Evaluation; and to which they are attached. Physical environment is also included in this pillar. 8. Implementation through Partnership 3. Increasing Awareness: focuses on information and promotion to ease engagement and participation among all community members. Connecting The NPAP has a suite of sixty actions and each of these links relevant agencies as opportunities with participants, especially in harder to reach groups is important. partners in delivery. Collaboration and partnership is the fundamental pillar in deliver of this plan and in terms of the Healthy Ireland Framework. This focus continues at 4. Organisation of Sport: focuses on partnership and collaboration, the relationships County level in the LECP and as a pillar in the draft Sports Partnership Strategy. among all stakeholders to grow the vision and make best use of collective resources. The role and responsibility of Longford LSP in the context of national and local strategies is also included in this pillar. National Physical Activity Plan – Summary of Relevant Actions

Actions relating to schools and young people are prioritised with a focus on the Active Get Ireland Walking Strategy and Action Plan 2017-2020 school flag programme and a focus to ensure that strategies relating to children and youth contain actions to promote physical activity. Get Ireland Walking is an initiative of Sport Ireland, and is supported by Healthy Ireland and delivered by Mountaineering Ireland. The core aim is to unify and enable The role of local authorities in ensuring that the physical environment facilitates the efforts of all agencies and organisations interested in promoting walking. participation in terms of walking and cycling and a network of cycle routes and footpaths and also the development of local and regional parks and recreational Get Ireland Walking comprises of seven themes: - spaces that encourage physical activity. The development of Community Sport and 1. Public Awareness, Education and Communication aims to create accessible Physical Activity Hubs in disadvantaged areas is also anticipation. walking-related information and spread a positive walking message; The provision of programmes is anticipated in actions relating to Active Communities 2. Children and Young People aims to provide children and young people with Walking Programmes and the development of new Get Ireland Running, Get Ireland increased opportunities to be physically active through walking; Cycling, Get Ireland Swimming initiatives. 3. Health aims to acknowledge and promote walking as a health-enhancing activity; Support for the existing sports infrastructure is anticipated including supporting effective transition between stages of participation; there is also a focus on 4. Environment aims to connect walkers with suitable walking environments and broadening the provision of ‘new’ sports to ensure greater choice. advocate for improved pedestrian infrastructure and recreational walking routes;

Actions relating to effective administration, measurement and evaluation are aimed at 5. Communities aims to develop and support vibrant and sustainable walking ensuring there is an effective research and knowledge framework to inform ongoing communities; and targeted development. 6. Research, Monitoring and Evaluation aims to provide an evidence-base for the promotion of walking; and

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7. Partnerships aims to activate and grow a valued network of partners that 2. Regulate for a healthier environment; collaborate to achieve shared outcomes. 3. Secure appropriate support from the commercial sector to play its part in obesity The seven themes are underpinned by 41 actions that reflect the action areas of prevention; Ireland’s National Physical Activity Plan. The following is a summary of the actions 4. Inform and empower change through a clear communications strategy; most relevant to aspects of the Healthy Longford Plan. Table 3 - Key Get Ireland Walking Strategy Elements 5. The Department of Health will provide leadership; 6. Mobilise the health services with a focus on prevention; Ref. Action Lead Partners Timeframe 1.3 Engage in promotional talks, events and activities that LSPs. ETBs, Ireland Active, LAs, news and media 2017 - 2020 7. Develop a service model for specialist care for children and adults; align with the vision, mission and values of GIW. broadcasters, Waterways Ireland and other organisations. 8. Acknowledge the key role of physical activity in the prevention of overweight and 4.1 Contribute to a publicly available directory of walking HSE, CARA, Coillte, GAA, IHF, LAs, Mountaineering 2017 – 2020 obesity; routes that contains information on accessibility and Sport Ireland, Parkrun, Waterways Ireland. suitability of routes for different types of walkers. Ireland. 9. Allocate resources according to need in particular for children and disadvantaged 4.2 Identify funding schemes, grants and resources available LSPs. GAA, National Healthy Cities and Counties Network, 2019 groups; and to communities to improve the walking environment in LAs, LCDCs, Sport Ireland and other collaborators. their areas, negotiate funding opportunities at a national level and communicate details to local communities. 10.Monitor research and review. 5.1 Continue to grow and expand the Active LSPs. Age & Opportunity, Arthritis Ireland, GAA, HSE, Ongoing The Obesity Policy and Action Plan identifies a suite of actions aligned to each of the Community Walking Programme to 500 IHF, Ireland Active, LAs, Mountaineering ten steps. Of these, the following require particular support in the Healthy Longford communities across Ireland by 2020. Ireland, Sport Ireland and partner organisations. Plan. 5.2 Support the development of walking groups for CARA, Age & Opportunity, community and voluntary Ongoing Table 5 – Key Obesity Action Plan Elements persons with disabilities, persons from minority LSPs. organisations, Ireland Active, LCDCs, NGBs, communities, and persons who are economically, Parkrun. Ref Action Lead Partners Timeline socially or educationally disadvantaged. 2.1 Develop guidelines and support materials for DOH, County/City Councils, DECLG 2016-2025 those working in developing the built environment HSE Source: Get Ireland Walking for urban development and planning in relation to reducing the obesogenic environment. 2.2 Develop, implement and evaluate calorie-posting DOH Public sector organisations 2016-2025 D1.3 Healthy Weight legislation.

Table 4 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 (Healthy Eating) 9.2 Scale up effective community based programmes HSE Tusla, LCDC, DCYA, DSP 2016-2025 with a focus on disadvantaged areas to enhance knowledge and skills with regard to healthy eating Theme No. Action and active living. E6.3.4 Support actions designed to achieve Origin Green status for food and drinks companies in County Longford Special emphasis should be placed on providing guidance, advice and training to parents on E6.3.5 Promote innovative and sustainable opportunities in agricultural, food, crafts and the agritech industries. healthy food and healthy eating. E6.4.12 Complete the development of a network of integrated themed trails e.g. Rebel, Literary, Edgeworth, South Longford and Food trails Source: Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland

Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland Healthy Eating Activities in Longford (selected)

The National Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland notes that Schools – ACE Programme ‘rising levels of overweight and obesity are placing an increasing burden on individuals and society. Childhood obesity and health inequalities are key issues that need to be addressed. The HSE Community Nutrition and Dietetic Service offers a school health promotion We know that overweight and obesity are significant risk factors for many chronic non- programme, called the ACE (Activity, Confidence and Eating) Schools Programme, to communicable diseases like heart disease, cancers, Type II diabetes, respiratory problems and primary schools. The ACE Schools Programme is a voluntary long-term programme musculoskeletal conditions. It also impacts on mental health. For individuals it may mean that promotes healthy eating, physical activity, dental health and mental health in they cannot carry out their routine daily living activities and for children, obesity carries a schools. Schools are incentivised to participate in the programme through the stigma and may be linked with bullying. Levels of overweight and obesity are much higher in provision of resources such as water bottles, cookery courses for parents and disadvantaged groups.’ students, health-related books, and support from a dietician. It is part of the Schools for Health in Europe (SHE) The Obesity Policy and Action Plan provides a ten-step approach: - 1. Embed multi-sectoral actions on obesity prevention with the support of government departments and public sector agencies; HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 23 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 24 22/08/2018

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7. Partnerships aims to activate and grow a valued network of partners that 2. Regulate for a healthier environment; collaborate to achieve shared outcomes. 3. Secure appropriate support from the commercial sector to play its part in obesity The seven themes are underpinned by 41 actions that reflect the action areas of prevention; Ireland’s National Physical Activity Plan. The following is a summary of the actions 4. Inform and empower change through a clear communications strategy; most relevant to aspects of the Healthy Longford Plan. Table 3 - Key Get Ireland Walking Strategy Elements 5. The Department of Health will provide leadership; 6. Mobilise the health services with a focus on prevention; Ref. Action Lead Partners Timeframe 1.3 Engage in promotional talks, events and activities that LSPs. ETBs, Ireland Active, LAs, news and media 2017 - 2020 7. Develop a service model for specialist care for children and adults; align with the vision, mission and values of GIW. broadcasters, Waterways Ireland and other organisations. 8. Acknowledge the key role of physical activity in the prevention of overweight and 4.1 Contribute to a publicly available directory of walking HSE, CARA, Coillte, GAA, IHF, LAs, Mountaineering 2017 – 2020 obesity; routes that contains information on accessibility and Sport Ireland, Parkrun, Waterways Ireland. suitability of routes for different types of walkers. Ireland. 9. Allocate resources according to need in particular for children and disadvantaged 4.2 Identify funding schemes, grants and resources available LSPs. GAA, National Healthy Cities and Counties Network, 2019 groups; and to communities to improve the walking environment in LAs, LCDCs, Sport Ireland and other collaborators. their areas, negotiate funding opportunities at a national level and communicate details to local communities. 10.Monitor research and review. 5.1 Continue to grow and expand the Active LSPs. Age & Opportunity, Arthritis Ireland, GAA, HSE, Ongoing The Obesity Policy and Action Plan identifies a suite of actions aligned to each of the Community Walking Programme to 500 IHF, Ireland Active, LAs, Mountaineering ten steps. Of these, the following require particular support in the Healthy Longford communities across Ireland by 2020. Ireland, Sport Ireland and partner organisations. Plan. 5.2 Support the development of walking groups for CARA, Age & Opportunity, community and voluntary Ongoing Table 5 – Key Obesity Action Plan Elements persons with disabilities, persons from minority LSPs. organisations, Ireland Active, LCDCs, NGBs, communities, and persons who are economically, Parkrun. Ref Action Lead Partners Timeline socially or educationally disadvantaged. 2.1 Develop guidelines and support materials for DOH, County/City Councils, DECLG 2016-2025 those working in developing the built environment HSE Source: Get Ireland Walking for urban development and planning in relation to reducing the obesogenic environment. 2.2 Develop, implement and evaluate calorie-posting DOH Public sector organisations 2016-2025 D1.3 Healthy Weight legislation.

Table 4 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 (Healthy Eating) 9.2 Scale up effective community based programmes HSE Tusla, LCDC, DCYA, DSP 2016-2025 with a focus on disadvantaged areas to enhance knowledge and skills with regard to healthy eating Theme No. Action and active living. E6.3.4 Support actions designed to achieve Origin Green status for food and drinks companies in County Longford Special emphasis should be placed on providing guidance, advice and training to parents on E6.3.5 Promote innovative and sustainable opportunities in agricultural, food, crafts and the agritech industries. healthy food and healthy eating. E6.4.12 Complete the development of a network of integrated themed trails e.g. Rebel, Literary, Edgeworth, South Longford and Food trails Source: Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland

Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland Healthy Eating Activities in Longford (selected)

The National Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland notes that Schools – ACE Programme ‘rising levels of overweight and obesity are placing an increasing burden on individuals and society. Childhood obesity and health inequalities are key issues that need to be addressed. The HSE Community Nutrition and Dietetic Service offers a school health promotion We know that overweight and obesity are significant risk factors for many chronic non- programme, called the ACE (Activity, Confidence and Eating) Schools Programme, to communicable diseases like heart disease, cancers, Type II diabetes, respiratory problems and primary schools. The ACE Schools Programme is a voluntary long-term programme musculoskeletal conditions. It also impacts on mental health. For individuals it may mean that promotes healthy eating, physical activity, dental health and mental health in they cannot carry out their routine daily living activities and for children, obesity carries a schools. Schools are incentivised to participate in the programme through the stigma and may be linked with bullying. Levels of overweight and obesity are much higher in provision of resources such as water bottles, cookery courses for parents and disadvantaged groups.’ students, health-related books, and support from a dietician. It is part of the Schools for Health in Europe (SHE) The Obesity Policy and Action Plan provides a ten-step approach: - 1. Embed multi-sectoral actions on obesity prevention with the support of government departments and public sector agencies; HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 23 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 24 22/08/2018

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Cool Dude Food Programme (for ACE Schools) Longford, Westmeath, Laois, Offaly 7. Warn about the dangers of tobacco; This nutrition education programme has been developed by the Community Nutrition 8. Enforce bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship; and Dietetic service in the HSE and is aimed at primary school children. The course is 9. Raise taxes on tobacco products; and run over 5 sessions with participants not only learning about healthy eating but also getting hands on experience of preparing and cooking healthier meals and snacks. 10. National and International Partnerships.

Community Gardens All of these recommendations require particular support in the Healthy Longford Plan, with particular emphasis at county level of the recommendation developed in Chapter In terms of community gardens, four sites are noted, two in Longford Town 10.1: ‘Government Departments, and state agencies including the Health Service Executive (Springlawn, Townspark); two attributed to the AIB funding awards (Longford will continue to liaise and work with the non-governmental organisations in order to achieve Community Garden, Longford Mental Health Association) and the Men’s Shed in policy aims set out in this report.’ Granard also advertises a garden.

Healthy Eating and Snack Time D1.5 Wellbeing (Mental Health) & Connecting for Life Healthy Longford is committed to working with key stakeholders and population Table 7 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 groups to promote the Healthy Ireland Smart Start Pre-school Health Promotion Theme No. Action training programme which is the result of over a decade of collaborative working led C1.1.2 Ensure the delivery of the Youth Employment Initiative Pilot Project by the HSE Department of Health Promotion and Improvement in partnership with C2.1.19 Investigate the reintroduction of a dedicated counselling service for teens in Longford National Childhood Network to ensure children in the pre-school setting are supported C1.1.3 Support delivery of the Employment motivation programme to young people to adopt healthy lifestyle behaviours in early childhood. The Training Programme C3.1.1 Support the implementation and the targets of the ‘Healthy Ireland Implementation Plan 2015-2017’ reflects the aim of the Healthy Ireland Framework to bring all people together into a C3.1.3 Roll out a series of targeted community based health promotion programmes, particularly in rural areas national movement with a single aim to ensure the best possible health and wellbeing C3.1.4 Continue to provide Clinical Home Support and Intervention based on needs assessments of our nation. In 2017 four Longford childcare providers received the Smart Start C3.1.11 Provide a comprehensive range of positive mental health & suicide prevention services & support the Award and in 2018 an additional five providers are participating in the programme. development & implementation of ‘Connecting for Life – Ireland’s National Strategy to Reduce suicide (2015- 2020) at a County level’ along with promoting the work of the Longford Suicide Resource Officer C3.1.12 Adopt and promote the ‘Little Things’ HSE Mental Health Programme D1.4 Tobacco Free Ireland C3.1.13 Promote and expand specific programmes targeted at improving mental health such as ‘Green Gyms’ and ‘Communities on the Move’ Table 6 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021

Theme No. Action C3.1.14 Implement Stop Smoking Initiatives in accordance with ‘Healthy Ireland’ Connecting for Life Tobacco Free Ireland notes that ‘the high levels of smoking in Ireland require a more Connecting for Life (CfL) is the national government strategy to reduce suicide in concerted effort to support the continued development of a tobacco free society where people Ireland, from 2015-2020. It brings together 12 key elements across seven strategic can live longer and healthier lives free from the detrimental effects of tobacco. The direction goals which are proven to help reduce suicide. The overall vision of the strategy is: given in this policy report seeks to de-normalise tobacco within Irish society, reduce initiation ‘An Ireland where fewer lives are lost through suicide, and where communities and individuals rates, assist smokers to quit, protect non-smokers, especially children, from the effects of are empowered to improve their mental health and wellbeing’. Evidence shows that with second-hand smoke, by building on a stable policy and legislative framework.’ the right help, support or intervention at many different stages, suicide is preventable. However, the evidence also shows us that no single intervention alone will prevent The Tobacco Free Ireland Action Plan identifies ten recommendations at national suicide. This requires the collective impact of a number of strategies in place – at a level: - population based, community based and individual level. The realisation of this relies 1. General; upon us all to provide a united approach. Local, multi-agency suicide prevention plans ensure that national goals and objectives are translated to a local level and that 2. Protection of children and de-normalisation of tobacco use in Ireland; local views are represented. These plans are key to building community capacity to 3. Legislative compliance and regulating the retail environment; prevent and respond to suicide. 4. Monitor tobacco use and prevalence; 5. Protect people from tobacco smoke; Local implementation, that includes empowering communities, is a core component of 6. Offer help to quit tobacco use; the Connecting for Life Strategy. We need to connect with ourselves, our families, our communities and the services on offer. Connecting for Life Midlands Louth Meath HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 25 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 26 22/08/2018

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Cool Dude Food Programme (for ACE Schools) Longford, Westmeath, Laois, Offaly 7. Warn about the dangers of tobacco; This nutrition education programme has been developed by the Community Nutrition 8. Enforce bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship; and Dietetic service in the HSE and is aimed at primary school children. The course is 9. Raise taxes on tobacco products; and run over 5 sessions with participants not only learning about healthy eating but also getting hands on experience of preparing and cooking healthier meals and snacks. 10. National and International Partnerships.

Community Gardens All of these recommendations require particular support in the Healthy Longford Plan, with particular emphasis at county level of the recommendation developed in Chapter In terms of community gardens, four sites are noted, two in Longford Town 10.1: ‘Government Departments, and state agencies including the Health Service Executive (Springlawn, Townspark); two attributed to the AIB funding awards (Longford will continue to liaise and work with the non-governmental organisations in order to achieve Community Garden, Longford Mental Health Association) and the Men’s Shed in policy aims set out in this report.’ Granard also advertises a garden.

Healthy Eating and Snack Time D1.5 Wellbeing (Mental Health) & Connecting for Life Healthy Longford is committed to working with key stakeholders and population Table 7 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021 groups to promote the Healthy Ireland Smart Start Pre-school Health Promotion Theme No. Action training programme which is the result of over a decade of collaborative working led C1.1.2 Ensure the delivery of the Youth Employment Initiative Pilot Project by the HSE Department of Health Promotion and Improvement in partnership with C2.1.19 Investigate the reintroduction of a dedicated counselling service for teens in Longford National Childhood Network to ensure children in the pre-school setting are supported C1.1.3 Support delivery of the Employment motivation programme to young people to adopt healthy lifestyle behaviours in early childhood. The Training Programme C3.1.1 Support the implementation and the targets of the ‘Healthy Ireland Implementation Plan 2015-2017’ reflects the aim of the Healthy Ireland Framework to bring all people together into a C3.1.3 Roll out a series of targeted community based health promotion programmes, particularly in rural areas national movement with a single aim to ensure the best possible health and wellbeing C3.1.4 Continue to provide Clinical Home Support and Intervention based on needs assessments of our nation. In 2017 four Longford childcare providers received the Smart Start C3.1.11 Provide a comprehensive range of positive mental health & suicide prevention services & support the Award and in 2018 an additional five providers are participating in the programme. development & implementation of ‘Connecting for Life – Ireland’s National Strategy to Reduce suicide (2015- 2020) at a County level’ along with promoting the work of the Longford Suicide Resource Officer C3.1.12 Adopt and promote the ‘Little Things’ HSE Mental Health Programme D1.4 Tobacco Free Ireland C3.1.13 Promote and expand specific programmes targeted at improving mental health such as ‘Green Gyms’ and ‘Communities on the Move’ Table 6 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021

Theme No. Action C3.1.14 Implement Stop Smoking Initiatives in accordance with ‘Healthy Ireland’ Connecting for Life Tobacco Free Ireland notes that ‘the high levels of smoking in Ireland require a more Connecting for Life (CfL) is the national government strategy to reduce suicide in concerted effort to support the continued development of a tobacco free society where people Ireland, from 2015-2020. It brings together 12 key elements across seven strategic can live longer and healthier lives free from the detrimental effects of tobacco. The direction goals which are proven to help reduce suicide. The overall vision of the strategy is: given in this policy report seeks to de-normalise tobacco within Irish society, reduce initiation ‘An Ireland where fewer lives are lost through suicide, and where communities and individuals rates, assist smokers to quit, protect non-smokers, especially children, from the effects of are empowered to improve their mental health and wellbeing’. Evidence shows that with second-hand smoke, by building on a stable policy and legislative framework.’ the right help, support or intervention at many different stages, suicide is preventable. However, the evidence also shows us that no single intervention alone will prevent The Tobacco Free Ireland Action Plan identifies ten recommendations at national suicide. This requires the collective impact of a number of strategies in place – at a level: - population based, community based and individual level. The realisation of this relies 1. General; upon us all to provide a united approach. Local, multi-agency suicide prevention plans ensure that national goals and objectives are translated to a local level and that 2. Protection of children and de-normalisation of tobacco use in Ireland; local views are represented. These plans are key to building community capacity to 3. Legislative compliance and regulating the retail environment; prevent and respond to suicide. 4. Monitor tobacco use and prevalence; 5. Protect people from tobacco smoke; Local implementation, that includes empowering communities, is a core component of 6. Offer help to quit tobacco use; the Connecting for Life Strategy. We need to connect with ourselves, our families, our communities and the services on offer. Connecting for Life Midlands Louth Meath HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 25 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 26 22/08/2018

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2018-2020, led by the HSE and developed in partnership with key local statutory and Perhaps, of even greater value in the context of the interagency, cooperation and non-statutory groups, sets out the steps many different organisations, including the collaboration theme that is fundamental to the Healthy Ireland agenda is the HSE, will take to realise the vision of a region where fewer lives are lost through coordinating role providing expertise, advice and support to statutory and non- suicide. statutory bodies that have a remit in the early years sector.

Connecting for Life identified the following key operational activities under seven ComhairleCon 2018 strategic goals that were progressed from 2015-2017: - Longford Comhairle na nOg is very active in promoting health and wellbeing. They Improve nation’s understanding of and attitudes to suicidal behaviour, mental 1. hosted ComhairleCon 2018 on 16th May: an interactive, innovative & informative health and wellbeing; conference focusing on the areas of mental health, substance abuse and student life. 2. Support local communities’ capacity to prevent and respond to suicidal behaviour; Talks & workshops were held on everything from leadership to yoga, from sports to entrepreneurship to the arts. 3. Targeted approaches to reduce suicidal behaviour and improve mental health among priority groups; Travellers Primary Healthcare Project 4. Enhance accessibility consistency and care pathways for people vulnerable to In terms of Travellers the overall aim of the Primary Healthcare Project is to improve the suicidal behaviour; health and life expectancy of Travellers living in County Longford through targeted 5. Ensure safe and high quality services for people vulnerable to suicide; promotion via home visits and health promotion in community groups, and workshops on issues such as: first aid, cancer prevention, mental health and suicide prevention, 6. Reduce and restrict access to means of suicidal behaviour; and antenatal care, child safety and healthy heart etc. The project promotes access to 7. Improve the surveillance, evaluation and high quality research relating to suicidal services and facilitates for service providers informed understanding of Traveller behaviour. issues. The Connecting for Life Implementation Plan 2017-2020 contains a number of actions Funded by the Health Service Executive, Longford has a Traveller Men's Worker - that are particularly relevant to the Healthy Longford Plan. These are noted in the whose role is to engage Traveller Men and to develop health related projects, and appendices. seven Traveller Community Health Workers whose role is to promote health and wellbeing in the community. Wellbeing Activities in Longford (selected) The HSE host Mental Health Engagement Local Forum Meetings for service users, friends, carers and family members, providing a sharing space to work on mental Healthy Longford has a role to play in promoting universal wellbeing promotion for all health related topics that are important to people. It is also a chance to help improve residents in the County that builds on some of the existing service infrastructure and services. Forums are advertised for a three-month period with a monthly event in the innovative programmes that have been developed. Library. The current schedule includes information talks on Filial Play Therapy delivered by Longford Community Resources Ltd since 2015  Connecting for Life: Suicide Prevention teaches parents the skills to work with their 1-3 year olds. After the initial assessment of the family, the therapist spends two or three weeks training the parents in the basic  Social work: Role in Mental Health Services Filial Play Therapy skills.  Mental Health Law in Ireland The Triple P – Positive Parenting Programme is a multi-level public health approach to parenting delivered by the Longford/Westmeath Parenting Partnership as an National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020 evidence-based parenting knowledge and skills programme, initially to parents of children aged 3-7 in Longford and Westmeath. The core team of practitioners are from Mental Health and Wellbeing features as a core objective (Obj.2 Advance the Physical both TUSLA and the HSE and LWPP is an interagency partnership of statutory and and Mental Health and Wellbeing of Women and Girls) of the national strategy and non-statutory organisations. targets actions among minority groups; the strategy further targets actions on addictions as they impact on women and girls. Early Years Intervention: The County Childcare Committee provides support services to the early years, and of particular relevance in terms of Healthy Ireland is the Longford Women’s Link is a key advocate and supporter of women and actions in its expertise in training and upskilling of childcare professionals and its linked current strategic plan link closely with the Healthy Ireland agenda. More importantly connections with the LECP in terms of actions relating to engagement with Traveller the organisation itself serves as a strong focal point for the engagement of women children, and service provision in disadvantaged areas. It has also linked with the (and, as parents) and young people in terms of sexual health, domestic violence and actions to develop a directory of services and the action to prioritise the development in the wider collaboration context upon which Healthy Longford / Healthy Ireland is of a comprehensive Youth Work plan. based. Longford Women’s Manifesto Group is a flagship project of Longford Women’s HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 27 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 28 22/08/2018

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2018-2020, led by the HSE and developed in partnership with key local statutory and Perhaps, of even greater value in the context of the interagency, cooperation and non-statutory groups, sets out the steps many different organisations, including the collaboration theme that is fundamental to the Healthy Ireland agenda is the HSE, will take to realise the vision of a region where fewer lives are lost through coordinating role providing expertise, advice and support to statutory and non- suicide. statutory bodies that have a remit in the early years sector.

Connecting for Life identified the following key operational activities under seven ComhairleCon 2018 strategic goals that were progressed from 2015-2017: - Longford Comhairle na nOg is very active in promoting health and wellbeing. They Improve nation’s understanding of and attitudes to suicidal behaviour, mental 1. hosted ComhairleCon 2018 on 16th May: an interactive, innovative & informative health and wellbeing; conference focusing on the areas of mental health, substance abuse and student life. 2. Support local communities’ capacity to prevent and respond to suicidal behaviour; Talks & workshops were held on everything from leadership to yoga, from sports to entrepreneurship to the arts. 3. Targeted approaches to reduce suicidal behaviour and improve mental health among priority groups; Travellers Primary Healthcare Project 4. Enhance accessibility consistency and care pathways for people vulnerable to In terms of Travellers the overall aim of the Primary Healthcare Project is to improve the suicidal behaviour; health and life expectancy of Travellers living in County Longford through targeted 5. Ensure safe and high quality services for people vulnerable to suicide; promotion via home visits and health promotion in community groups, and workshops on issues such as: first aid, cancer prevention, mental health and suicide prevention, 6. Reduce and restrict access to means of suicidal behaviour; and antenatal care, child safety and healthy heart etc. The project promotes access to 7. Improve the surveillance, evaluation and high quality research relating to suicidal services and facilitates for service providers informed understanding of Traveller behaviour. issues. The Connecting for Life Implementation Plan 2017-2020 contains a number of actions Funded by the Health Service Executive, Longford has a Traveller Men's Worker - that are particularly relevant to the Healthy Longford Plan. These are noted in the whose role is to engage Traveller Men and to develop health related projects, and appendices. seven Traveller Community Health Workers whose role is to promote health and wellbeing in the community. Wellbeing Activities in Longford (selected) The HSE host Mental Health Engagement Local Forum Meetings for service users, friends, carers and family members, providing a sharing space to work on mental Healthy Longford has a role to play in promoting universal wellbeing promotion for all health related topics that are important to people. It is also a chance to help improve residents in the County that builds on some of the existing service infrastructure and services. Forums are advertised for a three-month period with a monthly event in the innovative programmes that have been developed. Library. The current schedule includes information talks on Filial Play Therapy delivered by Longford Community Resources Ltd since 2015  Connecting for Life: Suicide Prevention teaches parents the skills to work with their 1-3 year olds. After the initial assessment of the family, the therapist spends two or three weeks training the parents in the basic  Social work: Role in Mental Health Services Filial Play Therapy skills.  Mental Health Law in Ireland The Triple P – Positive Parenting Programme is a multi-level public health approach to parenting delivered by the Longford/Westmeath Parenting Partnership as an National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020 evidence-based parenting knowledge and skills programme, initially to parents of children aged 3-7 in Longford and Westmeath. The core team of practitioners are from Mental Health and Wellbeing features as a core objective (Obj.2 Advance the Physical both TUSLA and the HSE and LWPP is an interagency partnership of statutory and and Mental Health and Wellbeing of Women and Girls) of the national strategy and non-statutory organisations. targets actions among minority groups; the strategy further targets actions on addictions as they impact on women and girls. Early Years Intervention: The County Childcare Committee provides support services to the early years, and of particular relevance in terms of Healthy Ireland is the Longford Women’s Link is a key advocate and supporter of women and actions in its expertise in training and upskilling of childcare professionals and its linked current strategic plan link closely with the Healthy Ireland agenda. More importantly connections with the LECP in terms of actions relating to engagement with Traveller the organisation itself serves as a strong focal point for the engagement of women children, and service provision in disadvantaged areas. It has also linked with the (and, as parents) and young people in terms of sexual health, domestic violence and actions to develop a directory of services and the action to prioritise the development in the wider collaboration context upon which Healthy Longford / Healthy Ireland is of a comprehensive Youth Work plan. based. Longford Women’s Manifesto Group is a flagship project of Longford Women’s HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 27 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 28 22/08/2018

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Link and promotes positive engagement between women and local decision-makers. inactivity among women aged 15-24 raise concerns about the potential implications This addresses the under representation of women in decision making structures. not only for their own health in terms of risks of developing chronic disease later in life, but also in terms of their health as parents of the next generation and the effects their HSE Submission with respect to Men’s Health Promotion health may have in terms of fertility, pregnancy, birth and neonatal complications and also establishment of healthy behaviour in their children. These findings point to the In a submission to the LCDC for inclusion in the Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 the need to empower young girls and women to make healthy lifestyle choices and, HSE noted that prioritising men’s health, and targeting disadvantaged men in through enhanced supports, to improve the health, wellbeing and resilience of women partnership with LCDCs, Local Sports Partnerships, the Men’s Development Network, of all ages. the Men’s Health Forum and the Irish Men’s Sheds Association is the focus of Other specific health issues where further focus is needed to improve awareness and planned activities to support initiatives relating to men’s health, particularly in respect support healthier choices include smoking cessation, safer alcohol consumption, of the National Men’s Health Week (June 2018). The aim of the promotion is to uptake of the HPV vaccine and consumption of folic acid. While carers include both heighten awareness, support men and boys to engage, and encouraging earlier men and women, a majority of carers are women, in particular, older women. Women detection of health conditions. Small practical actions and initiatives are envisaged to also represent a majority of older people with dementia. The continued support the National Men’s Health Week. implementation of both the Dementia Strategy and the Carer’s Strategy will improve Men’s Sheds: There are four men’s shed groups listed in the national directory in the situation of women both carers and cared for. County Longford: Dromard, Longford, Granard and Killoe. A number of tailored Healthy Longford is committed to working with key stakeholders and population programmes as well Men’s Health events under the Sheds for Life initiative are groups to support local and national initiatives which bring about:- available for delivery with the sheds. A training workshop entitled ‘Guidance for Effective Engagement with Men’s Sheds’ is available for delivery for organisations  Improved physical and mental health & wellbeing of women and girls, wishing to work with men’s sheds.  Improved outcomes for carers and cared for women, National Men’s Health Training – ‘Engage’ a training programme for those working  Increased availability of primary care services, with men in terms of improving engagement strategies.  A situation where girls and young women are supported in their social and With the exception of Men’s Sheds, the activities listed are national and require a local emotional development through the provision of community based youth services, activation component to facilitate a county specific programme. The submission also referred to upcoming actions including  An increase in the proportion of women and girls who are physically active. Men on the Move: a research report highlighting the positive aspects of a physical  An improvement in the health and wellbeing of women over 65, activity, healthy eating programme for men.  Improved healthcare support for women and girls from intercultural perspective. Farmers Have Hearts: health checks and follow-up interventions for farmers as identified as a particular high risk and hard to reach group of men. Related Services: Longford Women’s Link (LWL) is a key advocate and supporter of women and actions in its current strategic plan link closely with the Healthy Ireland Women’s Health Promotion agenda. Objective Two of the National Strategy for Women and girls is to advance the physical and mental health and wellbeing of women and girls. Rural Context: Women in rural Ireland share many commonalities with their urban There are currently a number of issues of focus where further improvements in the counterparts. However, there are significant differences in terms of access to health and wellbeing of girls and women could have a significant impact. The Healthy services, experiences of social exclusion, isolation and disadvantage and lack of Ireland Surveys 2015 and 2016 show that while women are generally less likely to be opportunities for economic independent. The recognition of different needs according overweight than men, the proportions that are obese are more closely aligned and to levels of disadvantage and/or geographic location is critical. women aged 15-24 are much more likely to be obese than men in that age range. In LWL’s position and method of working with women is informed by their own addition, younger women are much more likely to have a substantially increased experience as rural women. This position is informed by 23 years of expertise and metabolic risk (waist measurements showing levels of abdominal fat considered to be evidence based interventions in the area of women’s equality in County Longford. a predictor of strokes and premature death due to obesity). Women aged 15/24 also LWL’s position on promoting women’s health and wellbeing is linked to geography, spend longer sitting than any other group in the population. In addition, while men are rural economics, employment and educational opportunities and often increased generally more likely to smoke, no difference exists between men and women aged isolation and vulnerability. LWL recognises rural poverty as a significant factor in the 15-24. Some of these findings, particularly around level of overweight and physical health of women and girls and therefore any interventions to address the health and HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 29 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 30 22/08/2018

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Link and promotes positive engagement between women and local decision-makers. inactivity among women aged 15-24 raise concerns about the potential implications This addresses the under representation of women in decision making structures. not only for their own health in terms of risks of developing chronic disease later in life, but also in terms of their health as parents of the next generation and the effects their HSE Submission with respect to Men’s Health Promotion health may have in terms of fertility, pregnancy, birth and neonatal complications and also establishment of healthy behaviour in their children. These findings point to the In a submission to the LCDC for inclusion in the Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 the need to empower young girls and women to make healthy lifestyle choices and, HSE noted that prioritising men’s health, and targeting disadvantaged men in through enhanced supports, to improve the health, wellbeing and resilience of women partnership with LCDCs, Local Sports Partnerships, the Men’s Development Network, of all ages. the Men’s Health Forum and the Irish Men’s Sheds Association is the focus of Other specific health issues where further focus is needed to improve awareness and planned activities to support initiatives relating to men’s health, particularly in respect support healthier choices include smoking cessation, safer alcohol consumption, of the National Men’s Health Week (June 2018). The aim of the promotion is to uptake of the HPV vaccine and consumption of folic acid. While carers include both heighten awareness, support men and boys to engage, and encouraging earlier men and women, a majority of carers are women, in particular, older women. Women detection of health conditions. Small practical actions and initiatives are envisaged to also represent a majority of older people with dementia. The continued support the National Men’s Health Week. implementation of both the Dementia Strategy and the Carer’s Strategy will improve Men’s Sheds: There are four men’s shed groups listed in the national directory in the situation of women both carers and cared for. County Longford: Dromard, Longford, Granard and Killoe. A number of tailored Healthy Longford is committed to working with key stakeholders and population programmes as well Men’s Health events under the Sheds for Life initiative are groups to support local and national initiatives which bring about:- available for delivery with the sheds. A training workshop entitled ‘Guidance for Effective Engagement with Men’s Sheds’ is available for delivery for organisations  Improved physical and mental health & wellbeing of women and girls, wishing to work with men’s sheds.  Improved outcomes for carers and cared for women, National Men’s Health Training – ‘Engage’ a training programme for those working  Increased availability of primary care services, with men in terms of improving engagement strategies.  A situation where girls and young women are supported in their social and With the exception of Men’s Sheds, the activities listed are national and require a local emotional development through the provision of community based youth services, activation component to facilitate a county specific programme. The submission also referred to upcoming actions including  An increase in the proportion of women and girls who are physically active. Men on the Move: a research report highlighting the positive aspects of a physical  An improvement in the health and wellbeing of women over 65, activity, healthy eating programme for men.  Improved healthcare support for women and girls from intercultural perspective. Farmers Have Hearts: health checks and follow-up interventions for farmers as identified as a particular high risk and hard to reach group of men. Related Services: Longford Women’s Link (LWL) is a key advocate and supporter of women and actions in its current strategic plan link closely with the Healthy Ireland Women’s Health Promotion agenda. Objective Two of the National Strategy for Women and girls is to advance the physical and mental health and wellbeing of women and girls. Rural Context: Women in rural Ireland share many commonalities with their urban There are currently a number of issues of focus where further improvements in the counterparts. However, there are significant differences in terms of access to health and wellbeing of girls and women could have a significant impact. The Healthy services, experiences of social exclusion, isolation and disadvantage and lack of Ireland Surveys 2015 and 2016 show that while women are generally less likely to be opportunities for economic independent. The recognition of different needs according overweight than men, the proportions that are obese are more closely aligned and to levels of disadvantage and/or geographic location is critical. women aged 15-24 are much more likely to be obese than men in that age range. In LWL’s position and method of working with women is informed by their own addition, younger women are much more likely to have a substantially increased experience as rural women. This position is informed by 23 years of expertise and metabolic risk (waist measurements showing levels of abdominal fat considered to be evidence based interventions in the area of women’s equality in County Longford. a predictor of strokes and premature death due to obesity). Women aged 15/24 also LWL’s position on promoting women’s health and wellbeing is linked to geography, spend longer sitting than any other group in the population. In addition, while men are rural economics, employment and educational opportunities and often increased generally more likely to smoke, no difference exists between men and women aged isolation and vulnerability. LWL recognises rural poverty as a significant factor in the 15-24. Some of these findings, particularly around level of overweight and physical health of women and girls and therefore any interventions to address the health and HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 29 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 30 22/08/2018

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wellbeing of women and girls must take account of the particular access barriers that Longford Older People’s Council are exacerbated by poverty. Age friendly actions are envisaged using a multi-agency approach to planning and LWL linked directly through it’s Healthy Ireland funded LWL ‘Healthy Relationships’ service provision at county level. Development of the Older People’s Council is Transition Year Workshops which aim to raise awareness around the issue of dating among the key structural elements envisaged in setting up age friendly strategies at abuse. These are delivered in a non-gender specific way because dating abuse City/ County Level. This is a representative group of older people, tasked with happens to males as well as females. In an informal and interactive way experienced identifying priority areas of need, raising issues of importance and informing and professionals encourage student participation through group work, to help them influencing decision making processes, what is envisaged as ‘a strong voice in identify what they require from a healthy relationship as well as identifying which decision-making on housing, health, spatial planning and all aspects of everyday living behaviours constitute the various types of dating abuse. so that policies will be inclusive of the needs and choices of older people in urban and rural areas’ (Older People’s Council’s Guide 2015: P8). National Positive Aging Strategy Related Issue: The Crime Prevention Embassador Programme:- The Pilot Longford Crime Prevention Ambassador Programme is a partnership led by An Garda Positive Ageing – Starts Now! - The National Positive Aging Strategy envisages that Siochana, Longford County Council, Longford Age Friendly Alliance and Longford ‘Ireland will be a society for all ages that celebrates and prepares properly for individual and Older Persons Council supported by Community Alert and Neighbourhood Watch. population ageing. It will enable and support all ages and older people to enjoy physical and This initiative involves volunteer Crime Prevention Embassadors who are provided mental health and wellbeing to their full potential. It will promote and respect older people’s with training on safety and security by the Longford Community Policing Unit and are engagement in economic, social, cultural, community and family life, and foster better given Information pack for distribution among older people living in their solidarity between generations. It will be a society in which the equality, independence, neighbourhood – therefore the programme is led by older people who offer peer participation, care, self-fulfilment and dignity of older people are pursued at all times.’ support. The primary purpose of the initiative is to raise awareness among the older The National Positive Ageing Strategy seeks to create a shift in mind-set in how members of the community about issues of safety and security in the home and people conceptualise ageing and what needs to be done to promote positive ageing. reduce fear and anxiety for those living alone or experiencing loneliness or rural At a national level, the Strategy seeks to highlight that ageing is not solely a health isolation. This initiative has gained national interest and recently won a National Age issue – it requires a whole of Government response. At an individual level, the Friendly Recognition and Achievement Award 2017/2018. Strategy seeks to demonstrate that ageing is a lifelong process that does not start at Older Person Network – Mainly Social Activities 65 years of age - the choices that are made when young and middle age will largely determine health in old age. The Longford OPN is now in its ninth year and is made up of a range of voluntary groups, clubs and societies working at grass roots level with older people The National Positive Aging Strategy identifies four strategic goals: - in County Longford. These groups come together on a monthly basis to share 1. Remove barriers to participation and provide more opportunities for the continued information and experience of innovative work, and to take action on issues affecting involvement of people as they age in all aspects of cultural, economic and social older people. life in their communities according to their needs, preferences and capacities; The OPN comprises of 20 groups specifically for older people. All these groups are

2. Support people as they age to maintain, improve or manage their physical and voluntary and largely convened by older people themselves mental health and wellbeing; 3. Enable people to age with confidence, security and dignity in their own homes and Friendly Phone Call Service communities for as long as possible; and The Friendly Phone Call Service is a free service for older people. Initially developed 4. Support and use research about people as they age to better inform policy in 2007 by LCRL and the County Development Board in conjunction with Longford responses to population ageing in Ireland. Older Persons Network, the aim of the service is to provide information on local The Strategy contains a number of priority action areas that are particularly important activities and services available to older people as well as an opportunity for a friendly in the context of the Healthy Longford Plan, and are recorded in the appendices. chat. If you are feeling lonely or isolated and you would like someone to talk to this is the The relevant action in the LECP (C6.1.4) is to establish Age Friendly Towns in the County through the implementation of the Age Friendly Programme. In 2016 Council D1.6 Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery launched Longford as an Age Friendly Town and many businesses have signed for age-friendly business status. Table 8 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021

Theme No. Action C3.1.4 Continue to provide Clinical Home Support and Intervention based on needs assessments

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115011(3) Turner PG.indd 32 18/10/2018 15:58 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 wellbeing of women and girls must take account of the particular access barriers that Longford Older People’s Council are exacerbated by poverty. Age friendly actions are envisaged using a multi-agency approach to planning and LWL linked directly through it’s Healthy Ireland funded LWL ‘Healthy Relationships’ service provision at county level. Development of the Older People’s Council is Transition Year Workshops which aim to raise awareness around the issue of dating among the key structural elements envisaged in setting up age friendly strategies at abuse. These are delivered in a non-gender specific way because dating abuse City/ County Level. This is a representative group of older people, tasked with happens to males as well as females. In an informal and interactive way experienced identifying priority areas of need, raising issues of importance and informing and professionals encourage student participation through group work, to help them influencing decision making processes, what is envisaged as ‘a strong voice in identify what they require from a healthy relationship as well as identifying which decision-making on housing, health, spatial planning and all aspects of everyday living behaviours constitute the various types of dating abuse. so that policies will be inclusive of the needs and choices of older people in urban and rural areas’ (Older People’s Council’s Guide 2015: P8). National Positive Aging Strategy Related Issue: The Crime Prevention Embassador Programme:- The Pilot Longford Crime Prevention Ambassador Programme is a partnership led by An Garda Positive Ageing – Starts Now! - The National Positive Aging Strategy envisages that Siochana, Longford County Council, Longford Age Friendly Alliance and Longford ‘Ireland will be a society for all ages that celebrates and prepares properly for individual and Older Persons Council supported by Community Alert and Neighbourhood Watch. population ageing. It will enable and support all ages and older people to enjoy physical and This initiative involves volunteer Crime Prevention Embassadors who are provided mental health and wellbeing to their full potential. It will promote and respect older people’s with training on safety and security by the Longford Community Policing Unit and are engagement in economic, social, cultural, community and family life, and foster better given Information pack for distribution among older people living in their solidarity between generations. It will be a society in which the equality, independence, neighbourhood – therefore the programme is led by older people who offer peer participation, care, self-fulfilment and dignity of older people are pursued at all times.’ support. The primary purpose of the initiative is to raise awareness among the older The National Positive Ageing Strategy seeks to create a shift in mind-set in how members of the community about issues of safety and security in the home and people conceptualise ageing and what needs to be done to promote positive ageing. reduce fear and anxiety for those living alone or experiencing loneliness or rural At a national level, the Strategy seeks to highlight that ageing is not solely a health isolation. This initiative has gained national interest and recently won a National Age issue – it requires a whole of Government response. At an individual level, the Friendly Recognition and Achievement Award 2017/2018. Strategy seeks to demonstrate that ageing is a lifelong process that does not start at Older Person Network – Mainly Social Activities 65 years of age - the choices that are made when young and middle age will largely determine health in old age. The Longford OPN is now in its ninth year and is made up of a range of voluntary groups, clubs and societies working at grass roots level with older people The National Positive Aging Strategy identifies four strategic goals: - in County Longford. These groups come together on a monthly basis to share 1. Remove barriers to participation and provide more opportunities for the continued information and experience of innovative work, and to take action on issues affecting involvement of people as they age in all aspects of cultural, economic and social older people. life in their communities according to their needs, preferences and capacities; The OPN comprises of 20 groups specifically for older people. All these groups are

2. Support people as they age to maintain, improve or manage their physical and voluntary and largely convened by older people themselves mental health and wellbeing; 3. Enable people to age with confidence, security and dignity in their own homes and Friendly Phone Call Service communities for as long as possible; and The Friendly Phone Call Service is a free service for older people. Initially developed 4. Support and use research about people as they age to better inform policy in 2007 by LCRL and the County Development Board in conjunction with Longford responses to population ageing in Ireland. Older Persons Network, the aim of the service is to provide information on local The Strategy contains a number of priority action areas that are particularly important activities and services available to older people as well as an opportunity for a friendly in the context of the Healthy Longford Plan, and are recorded in the appendices. chat. If you are feeling lonely or isolated and you would like someone to talk to this is the The relevant action in the LECP (C6.1.4) is to establish Age Friendly Towns in the County through the implementation of the Age Friendly Programme. In 2016 Council D1.6 Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery launched Longford as an Age Friendly Town and many businesses have signed for age-friendly business status. Table 8 - LECP Committed Actions to 2021

Theme No. Action C3.1.4 Continue to provide Clinical Home Support and Intervention based on needs assessments

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C3.1.5 Support community engagement in areas most affected by the drug & alcohol problem through the establishment HYPE Youth Festival is designed to positively promote drug and alcohol free and and support of appropriate networks in County Longford Festival 2018 is expected to draw close to 5,000 young people and their families for a C3.1.6 Assist in the development, coordination and delivery of a range of drug and alcohol awareness campaigns and education programmes one-day festival involving Bands, Disco’s, Karaoke tents, inflatable theme park It is a C3.1.7 Provide Drug and Alcohol Assessment, Treatment, Rehabilitation and support services for Adults and under 18 Foróige event organised in partnership with The Attic Youth Café. year olds concerned with their own or anthers person’s rug or alcohol use C3.1.8 Assist in preventing and reducing alcohol-related harm County Longford Drugs & Alcohol Forum (CLDAF): The core aim of Longford Drugs Forum involves working in partnership with community, voluntary and statutory Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery is the national health-led response to drug and representatives under the guidelines and framework of the National Drug Strategy alcohol use in Ireland 2017-2025. The strategy notes that ‘Ireland has a problem with Foróige: In 2015 the Attic Youth Café Drug Education Initiative delivered 33 Drug substance misuse. Rates of drug use in Ireland have risen significantly over the past decade, education and prevention programmes were in Longford town, Granard, Ballymahon with the greatest increases among younger people. Many Irish people engage in harmful and Edgeworthstown. drinking patterns and alcohol has become a major drugs issue. The rise in the number of families affected by the loss of a loved one due to drug use is a serious cause for concern. Alcoholics Anonymous: The national AA website lists seven locations in the County These issues highlight the need to intervene effectively to reduce the harms associated with where AA meetings a are held (Ardagh, Aughnacliffe, Ballymahon, Granard, Keenagh, substance misuse, and combat the underlying reasons for the demand for drugs.’ Longford Town. The strategy emphasises a health-led response to drug and alcohol use in Ireland, Community based Drug & Alcohol Prevention & Treatment Support Services During based on providing person-centred services that promote rehabilitation and recovery. 2016 following an external evaluation of Drug & Alcohol funded Support Services in A person-centred approach means giving people a say in their own treatment and the midlands region, HSE CADS (Community Alcohol & Drug Service) and the supporting them to play a role in their own recovery. Midland Regional Drug & Alcohol Task Force (MRDATF) restructured the Prevention ‘a healthier and safer Ireland, where public and Treatment Support services across the region. As a result of same and following The vision of the strategy aims to create a public procurement process led by the HSE two new services were appointed to health and safety is protected, and the harms caused to individuals, families and communities deliver a range of drug and alcohol support services in HSE Midlands Louth/Meath by substance misuse are reduced and every person affected by substance misuse is empowered CHO to cover the region of Longford, Westmeath, Laois & Offaly. to improve their health, wellbeing and quality of life.’ The Extern MYDAS (Midlands Youth Drug & Alcohol Support) Project delivers a The strategy introduces five goals: - Community based Under 18 Drug & Alcohol Prevention & Treatment Support Service Of the many actions identified under the five goals, those of particular relevance to for young people and families. The range of services provided includes information Healthy Longford are carried in the appendices and advice, counselling, family support, key working and interagency case 3 management. It also delivers a range of education programmes to relevant The current strategy of the Midlands Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force is community, voluntary and statutory sectors in line with best practice. guided by National Drug Strategy aims to: -

 Reduce the supply and availability of illicit drugs. Merchants Quay Ireland DATS (Drug & Alcohol Treatment Support) Project delivers a  Minimise problem drug use throughout society. Community based Drug & Alcohol treatment support for individuals over 18 years and  Provide suitable and timely substance treatment and rehabilitation services families. The range of services provided include information and advice, family (including harm reduction services), tailored to individual needs. support, family therapy, needle and syringe exchange programme and harm  Ensure the availability of accurate, timely, relevant and comparable data on the reduction. MQI are also in the process of establishing an Open Access/Drop In extent and nature of problem substance use in Ireland. Service in Portlaoise. This service will provide crisis intervention, key working and case management to service users. It will act as a point of contact for service users,  Have in place an efficient and effective framework for implementing the National as well as an environment to learn harm reduction skills and access pathways to Substance Misuse Strategy. change through stabilisation or referral to treatment. In relation to Longford the plan notes recent events in Longford: Need Help Get Help: An information poster and credit card sized document was These services are co-funded and supported by both HSE CADS & the MRDATF in developed by the County Longford Drug and Alcohol Forum which detailed the range association with Longford & Westmeath Education & Training Board (ETB), through of drug and alcohol support services available in the region to include services contact funding allocated from the HSE & the Drugs Policy Unit (DPU) in the Department of details. These resources were launched at a ‘Strength in Local Knowledge’ event held Health. Both services were officially launched in October 2017. in November 2015

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C3.1.5 Support community engagement in areas most affected by the drug & alcohol problem through the establishment HYPE Youth Festival is designed to positively promote drug and alcohol free and and support of appropriate networks in County Longford Festival 2018 is expected to draw close to 5,000 young people and their families for a C3.1.6 Assist in the development, coordination and delivery of a range of drug and alcohol awareness campaigns and education programmes one-day festival involving Bands, Disco’s, Karaoke tents, inflatable theme park It is a C3.1.7 Provide Drug and Alcohol Assessment, Treatment, Rehabilitation and support services for Adults and under 18 Foróige event organised in partnership with The Attic Youth Café. year olds concerned with their own or anthers person’s rug or alcohol use C3.1.8 Assist in preventing and reducing alcohol-related harm County Longford Drugs & Alcohol Forum (CLDAF): The core aim of Longford Drugs Forum involves working in partnership with community, voluntary and statutory Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery is the national health-led response to drug and representatives under the guidelines and framework of the National Drug Strategy alcohol use in Ireland 2017-2025. The strategy notes that ‘Ireland has a problem with Foróige: In 2015 the Attic Youth Café Drug Education Initiative delivered 33 Drug substance misuse. Rates of drug use in Ireland have risen significantly over the past decade, education and prevention programmes were in Longford town, Granard, Ballymahon with the greatest increases among younger people. Many Irish people engage in harmful and Edgeworthstown. drinking patterns and alcohol has become a major drugs issue. The rise in the number of families affected by the loss of a loved one due to drug use is a serious cause for concern. Alcoholics Anonymous: The national AA website lists seven locations in the County These issues highlight the need to intervene effectively to reduce the harms associated with where AA meetings a are held (Ardagh, Aughnacliffe, Ballymahon, Granard, Keenagh, substance misuse, and combat the underlying reasons for the demand for drugs.’ Longford Town. The strategy emphasises a health-led response to drug and alcohol use in Ireland, Community based Drug & Alcohol Prevention & Treatment Support Services During based on providing person-centred services that promote rehabilitation and recovery. 2016 following an external evaluation of Drug & Alcohol funded Support Services in A person-centred approach means giving people a say in their own treatment and the midlands region, HSE CADS (Community Alcohol & Drug Service) and the supporting them to play a role in their own recovery. Midland Regional Drug & Alcohol Task Force (MRDATF) restructured the Prevention ‘a healthier and safer Ireland, where public and Treatment Support services across the region. As a result of same and following The vision of the strategy aims to create a public procurement process led by the HSE two new services were appointed to health and safety is protected, and the harms caused to individuals, families and communities deliver a range of drug and alcohol support services in HSE Midlands Louth/Meath by substance misuse are reduced and every person affected by substance misuse is empowered CHO to cover the region of Longford, Westmeath, Laois & Offaly. to improve their health, wellbeing and quality of life.’ The Extern MYDAS (Midlands Youth Drug & Alcohol Support) Project delivers a The strategy introduces five goals: - Community based Under 18 Drug & Alcohol Prevention & Treatment Support Service Of the many actions identified under the five goals, those of particular relevance to for young people and families. The range of services provided includes information Healthy Longford are carried in the appendices and advice, counselling, family support, key working and interagency case 3 management. It also delivers a range of education programmes to relevant The current strategy of the Midlands Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force is community, voluntary and statutory sectors in line with best practice. guided by National Drug Strategy aims to: -

 Reduce the supply and availability of illicit drugs. Merchants Quay Ireland DATS (Drug & Alcohol Treatment Support) Project delivers a  Minimise problem drug use throughout society. Community based Drug & Alcohol treatment support for individuals over 18 years and  Provide suitable and timely substance treatment and rehabilitation services families. The range of services provided include information and advice, family (including harm reduction services), tailored to individual needs. support, family therapy, needle and syringe exchange programme and harm  Ensure the availability of accurate, timely, relevant and comparable data on the reduction. MQI are also in the process of establishing an Open Access/Drop In extent and nature of problem substance use in Ireland. Service in Portlaoise. This service will provide crisis intervention, key working and case management to service users. It will act as a point of contact for service users,  Have in place an efficient and effective framework for implementing the National as well as an environment to learn harm reduction skills and access pathways to Substance Misuse Strategy. change through stabilisation or referral to treatment. In relation to Longford the plan notes recent events in Longford: Need Help Get Help: An information poster and credit card sized document was These services are co-funded and supported by both HSE CADS & the MRDATF in developed by the County Longford Drug and Alcohol Forum which detailed the range association with Longford & Westmeath Education & Training Board (ETB), through of drug and alcohol support services available in the region to include services contact funding allocated from the HSE & the Drugs Policy Unit (DPU) in the Department of details. These resources were launched at a ‘Strength in Local Knowledge’ event held Health. Both services were officially launched in October 2017. in November 2015

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. Section E: Consultation and Collaboration These services add to existing services provided through County Longford Youth Service (CLYS), Longford Enabling Action Project (LEAP), The GAA Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP) programme, and the HSE Community Alcohol E1 Survey of Social and Community Services and Drug Services (CADS) and Health and Wellbeing Division Healthy Longford Strategic Plan Consultation involved engagement through survey monkey with key stakeholders. The survey is seen as the most efficient way to gather D1.7 National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020 information in a short timeframe among busy social and community workers. Views were sought using a simple what works well, what are the gaps, and what can be The National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020 and Action Plan 2015-2016 takes a done to improve question format. life course implementation approach. It acknowledges the importance of developing a healthy attitude to sexuality in young people and of building on that foundation for What Works Well? positive sexual health and wellbeing into adulthood and older age. Stakeholders who took part in the consultation felt that Longford has a rich community ‘that everyone in Ireland The strategic vision of the National Sexual Health Strategy is atmosphere, with a high level of engagement in voluntary and community groups. It experiences positive sexual health and wellbeing.’ To achieve this vision, this Strategy was noted that there are at least 270 such groups affiliated with PPN. aims to ‘improve sexual health and wellbeing and reduce negative sexual health outcomes by ensuring that everyone living in Ireland has access to high quality sexual health information, It is also felt that a focus on inclusiveness seems to be working, as there are multiple education and services throughout their lives.’ inter-generational projects, as well as a number of opportunities for younger members of society to access sport, arts and culture in Longford. This vision will be addressed through the realisation of three goals: - In terms of youth programmes, the relationships programme, was highlighted as a

1. Sexual health promotion, education and prevention: Everyone living in Ireland will particularly effective initiative which gives young people the tools necessary to receive comprehensive and age-appropriate sexual health education and/or develop and maintain healthy relationships, and to make responsible, aware choices information and will have access to appropriate prevention and promotion when it comes to scenarios around their sexual health and activity. services; 2. Sexual health services: Equitable, accessible and high quality sexual health What are the Gaps? services that are targeted and tailored to need will be available to everyone; and There was much concern surrounding access to programmes for at risk groups, 3. Sexual health intelligence: Robust and high quality sexual health information will particularly surrounding access to Mental Health services. It was felt that while mental be generated to underpin policy, practice, service planning and strategic health services are present, there are often barriers of access such as long waiting monitoring. lists. The same it true of drug and alcohol addiction programmes. Again, they exist, but waiting lists are considered too long for them to be as effective. In terms of the LECP the action (C3.1 16) is to expand the ‘Healthy Relationships Workshop Programme’ to include more Transition Year groups and Youth Groups This issue is of major concern when coupled with issues around at risk and vulnerable sectors of society. It was noted that there are many members of the community who are physically, or often socially isolated, and who find it tremendously difficult to Sexual Health Activities in Longford (Selected programmes) access the facilities and programmes they need to better their situation. These groups include at risk youth, the elderly, people suffering from addiction, early school leavers, ‘improve sexual health and The National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020 aims to and people with mental health problems. It was felt that there was a need to focus on wellbeing and reduce negative sexual health outcomes by ensuring that everyone increasing awareness of the services available, and also to address barriers of living in Ireland has access to high quality sexual health information, education and engagement with those services, be it money, distance, mental health etc. in a hroughout their lives.’ services t progressive and compassionate manner. Related Services: Older members of society in particular are facing access challenges that are Another county-based programme targets a key goal relating to the national strategy expressed as an increased need for social outlets designed specifically for elderly relating to sexual health intelligence, where robust and high quality sexual health people. Men’s sheds were mentioned as a great example of community-led action to information will be generated. The Longford Foundation Programme in Sexual Health address social isolation. It was generally recognised that there was a need for an Promotion (FPSHP) is a 10-day comprehensive capacity-building training programme expansion of the greater geographical dispersion of men’s sheds across the county. provided by the HSE for service providers who want to develop their confidence, skills There was some concern raised around a lack of group physical activity for older and knowledge in the area of sexual health promotion, and incorporate sexual health members of the community. In addition to helping with feelings of isolation, this would promotion into their work. HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 35 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 36 22/08/2018

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. Section E: Consultation and Collaboration These services add to existing services provided through County Longford Youth Service (CLYS), Longford Enabling Action Project (LEAP), The GAA Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP) programme, and the HSE Community Alcohol E1 Survey of Social and Community Services and Drug Services (CADS) and Health and Wellbeing Division Healthy Longford Strategic Plan Consultation involved engagement through survey monkey with key stakeholders. The survey is seen as the most efficient way to gather D1.7 National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020 information in a short timeframe among busy social and community workers. Views were sought using a simple what works well, what are the gaps, and what can be The National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020 and Action Plan 2015-2016 takes a done to improve question format. life course implementation approach. It acknowledges the importance of developing a healthy attitude to sexuality in young people and of building on that foundation for What Works Well? positive sexual health and wellbeing into adulthood and older age. Stakeholders who took part in the consultation felt that Longford has a rich community ‘that everyone in Ireland The strategic vision of the National Sexual Health Strategy is atmosphere, with a high level of engagement in voluntary and community groups. It experiences positive sexual health and wellbeing.’ To achieve this vision, this Strategy was noted that there are at least 270 such groups affiliated with PPN. aims to ‘improve sexual health and wellbeing and reduce negative sexual health outcomes by ensuring that everyone living in Ireland has access to high quality sexual health information, It is also felt that a focus on inclusiveness seems to be working, as there are multiple education and services throughout their lives.’ inter-generational projects, as well as a number of opportunities for younger members of society to access sport, arts and culture in Longford. This vision will be addressed through the realisation of three goals: - In terms of youth programmes, the relationships programme, was highlighted as a

1. Sexual health promotion, education and prevention: Everyone living in Ireland will particularly effective initiative which gives young people the tools necessary to receive comprehensive and age-appropriate sexual health education and/or develop and maintain healthy relationships, and to make responsible, aware choices information and will have access to appropriate prevention and promotion when it comes to scenarios around their sexual health and activity. services; 2. Sexual health services: Equitable, accessible and high quality sexual health What are the Gaps? services that are targeted and tailored to need will be available to everyone; and There was much concern surrounding access to programmes for at risk groups, 3. Sexual health intelligence: Robust and high quality sexual health information will particularly surrounding access to Mental Health services. It was felt that while mental be generated to underpin policy, practice, service planning and strategic health services are present, there are often barriers of access such as long waiting monitoring. lists. The same it true of drug and alcohol addiction programmes. Again, they exist, but waiting lists are considered too long for them to be as effective. In terms of the LECP the action (C3.1 16) is to expand the ‘Healthy Relationships Workshop Programme’ to include more Transition Year groups and Youth Groups This issue is of major concern when coupled with issues around at risk and vulnerable sectors of society. It was noted that there are many members of the community who are physically, or often socially isolated, and who find it tremendously difficult to Sexual Health Activities in Longford (Selected programmes) access the facilities and programmes they need to better their situation. These groups include at risk youth, the elderly, people suffering from addiction, early school leavers, ‘improve sexual health and The National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020 aims to and people with mental health problems. It was felt that there was a need to focus on wellbeing and reduce negative sexual health outcomes by ensuring that everyone increasing awareness of the services available, and also to address barriers of living in Ireland has access to high quality sexual health information, education and engagement with those services, be it money, distance, mental health etc. in a hroughout their lives.’ services t progressive and compassionate manner. Related Services: Older members of society in particular are facing access challenges that are Another county-based programme targets a key goal relating to the national strategy expressed as an increased need for social outlets designed specifically for elderly relating to sexual health intelligence, where robust and high quality sexual health people. Men’s sheds were mentioned as a great example of community-led action to information will be generated. The Longford Foundation Programme in Sexual Health address social isolation. It was generally recognised that there was a need for an Promotion (FPSHP) is a 10-day comprehensive capacity-building training programme expansion of the greater geographical dispersion of men’s sheds across the county. provided by the HSE for service providers who want to develop their confidence, skills There was some concern raised around a lack of group physical activity for older and knowledge in the area of sexual health promotion, and incorporate sexual health members of the community. In addition to helping with feelings of isolation, this would promotion into their work. HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 35 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 36 22/08/2018

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have many positive health benefits. Lifelong learning initiatives were also suggested community activities and events. A lack of homecare support was also cited as an as a way of engaging an ageing population and further alleviating feelings of isolation issue that requires further funding. and giving people a sense of value and purpose. It was noted several times throughout the consultation process that access to urban E2 Physical Space areas from rural areas was poor, and information on transport services was difficult to come by. What Works Well?

What Can be Done to Improve? The abundant natural resource in Longford and the surrounding areas was considered a positive asset amongst those involved in the consultation process. Walking trails, Engagement of local residents through a social media campaign is advocated parks and gardens were seen as strong starting points for a good use of physical together with already existing methods of information dissemination (local clubs, space in Longford. Additional urban infrastructure such as the greenway and the canal groups and agencies) to engage more on a community basis through information days encourage activity and engagement around the community. The recently built Mill and festivals. This inter-agency approach would help to foster a community Bridge across the Camlin River was also highlighted as having a positive impact on atmosphere and encourage cross-pollination of ideas through Longford’s diverse physical activity within the community. community. Longford was seen as being very child friendly, with playgrounds, as well as child Information and initiatives around the idea of healthy eating was seen being worthy of friendly healthy restaurants regarded as particularly positive aspects of the shared general improvement, particularly in respect of initiatives relating to the provision of urban environment of Longford. community gardens and a greater understanding of healthy cooking. More could be done to increase knowledge around healthy eating, for example in local restaurants, What are the Gaps? by providing information on transparency of ingredients and calorie content of meals. Access and information was highlighted and there was a need expressed for a central Specific to young people, it was noted that Longford was the lowest funded county in location that has information on all physical activity amenities. Transport and transport the country when it comes to youth workers. This coupled with the long waiting lists costs is also noted. for access to mental health services for young people, means that opportunities for early intervention with young people are often missed, perhaps more importantly, What can be done to improve? young people’s voices aren’t being heard. An increase in funding for youth workers Continued expansion and renovation of existing walkways and trails is seen as a and mental health services, therefore, would alleviate what is fast becoming a simple way to make better use of the already existing infrastructure and encourage bottleneck of social and mental health issues among young people in Longford. Anti- physical activity. A public gardening initiative was suggested as a means of improving social behaviour was flagged as an issue arising from boredom amongst the younger education around healthy eating, which would also factor into the Healthy Ireland population. Increasing accessibility to sports facilities and youth activities was seen as initiative. the clear solution to this issue, while also helping to foster a community atmosphere. For the more vulnerable in Longford society, accessibility and engagement remains E3 Longford PPN - Wellbeing Meetings the key issues to address. It was suggested that inter-agency collaboration and spaces would help in creating a united and targeted approach to addressing these The Longford Public Participation Network held a series of public consultation issues, and ensuring that the most vulnerable in society don’t fall through the gaps. sessions looking at the wellbeing of the people of Longford. They invited Also necessary to make progress in this area is to actively engage with marginalised representatives from various groups with a vested interest in wellbeing in the Longford and vulnerable groups. Inclusive initiatives to help tackle loneliness and isolation area and collected their concerns, opinions and suggestions. A number of areas were should also be considered, specifically targeting vulnerable people in rural areas that included in the scope of the sessions, and the collected data has been summarised are not be well served by public transport. here. As previously mentioned, the ageing population of Longford could be well served by the introduction of further Men’s Sheds. Men’s Sheds were highlighted a number of Awareness / Information times as a possible solution to isolation and loneliness. They also help to give purpose A key concern that was highlighted related to awareness of mental health issues. A to older members of society and are, in their own way, quite inter-generational thus need for better training around early mental health intervention was needed, as well helping to increase the feeling of inclusivity among the community as a whole. as a need to address addiction services, which could overlap with mental health. A Big Brother/Big Sister style programme, which would pair older people with younger Growing waiting lists were a concern for those involved in the consultation, and there people, was also suggested as a way of promoting an inter-generational aspect to is a sense that the waiting list issue wasn’t being addressed adequately or in a timely manner.

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115011(3) Turner PG.indd 38 18/10/2018 15:58 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 have many positive health benefits. Lifelong learning initiatives were also suggested community activities and events. A lack of homecare support was also cited as an as a way of engaging an ageing population and further alleviating feelings of isolation issue that requires further funding. and giving people a sense of value and purpose. It was noted several times throughout the consultation process that access to urban E2 Physical Space areas from rural areas was poor, and information on transport services was difficult to come by. What Works Well?

What Can be Done to Improve? The abundant natural resource in Longford and the surrounding areas was considered a positive asset amongst those involved in the consultation process. Walking trails, Engagement of local residents through a social media campaign is advocated parks and gardens were seen as strong starting points for a good use of physical together with already existing methods of information dissemination (local clubs, space in Longford. Additional urban infrastructure such as the greenway and the canal groups and agencies) to engage more on a community basis through information days encourage activity and engagement around the community. The recently built Mill and festivals. This inter-agency approach would help to foster a community Bridge across the Camlin River was also highlighted as having a positive impact on atmosphere and encourage cross-pollination of ideas through Longford’s diverse physical activity within the community. community. Longford was seen as being very child friendly, with playgrounds, as well as child Information and initiatives around the idea of healthy eating was seen being worthy of friendly healthy restaurants regarded as particularly positive aspects of the shared general improvement, particularly in respect of initiatives relating to the provision of urban environment of Longford. community gardens and a greater understanding of healthy cooking. More could be done to increase knowledge around healthy eating, for example in local restaurants, What are the Gaps? by providing information on transparency of ingredients and calorie content of meals. Access and information was highlighted and there was a need expressed for a central Specific to young people, it was noted that Longford was the lowest funded county in location that has information on all physical activity amenities. Transport and transport the country when it comes to youth workers. This coupled with the long waiting lists costs is also noted. for access to mental health services for young people, means that opportunities for early intervention with young people are often missed, perhaps more importantly, What can be done to improve? young people’s voices aren’t being heard. An increase in funding for youth workers Continued expansion and renovation of existing walkways and trails is seen as a and mental health services, therefore, would alleviate what is fast becoming a simple way to make better use of the already existing infrastructure and encourage bottleneck of social and mental health issues among young people in Longford. Anti- physical activity. A public gardening initiative was suggested as a means of improving social behaviour was flagged as an issue arising from boredom amongst the younger education around healthy eating, which would also factor into the Healthy Ireland population. Increasing accessibility to sports facilities and youth activities was seen as initiative. the clear solution to this issue, while also helping to foster a community atmosphere. For the more vulnerable in Longford society, accessibility and engagement remains E3 Longford PPN - Wellbeing Meetings the key issues to address. It was suggested that inter-agency collaboration and spaces would help in creating a united and targeted approach to addressing these The Longford Public Participation Network held a series of public consultation issues, and ensuring that the most vulnerable in society don’t fall through the gaps. sessions looking at the wellbeing of the people of Longford. They invited Also necessary to make progress in this area is to actively engage with marginalised representatives from various groups with a vested interest in wellbeing in the Longford and vulnerable groups. Inclusive initiatives to help tackle loneliness and isolation area and collected their concerns, opinions and suggestions. A number of areas were should also be considered, specifically targeting vulnerable people in rural areas that included in the scope of the sessions, and the collected data has been summarised are not be well served by public transport. here. As previously mentioned, the ageing population of Longford could be well served by the introduction of further Men’s Sheds. Men’s Sheds were highlighted a number of Awareness / Information times as a possible solution to isolation and loneliness. They also help to give purpose A key concern that was highlighted related to awareness of mental health issues. A to older members of society and are, in their own way, quite inter-generational thus need for better training around early mental health intervention was needed, as well helping to increase the feeling of inclusivity among the community as a whole. as a need to address addiction services, which could overlap with mental health. A Big Brother/Big Sister style programme, which would pair older people with younger Growing waiting lists were a concern for those involved in the consultation, and there people, was also suggested as a way of promoting an inter-generational aspect to is a sense that the waiting list issue wasn’t being addressed adequately or in a timely manner.

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Carers were seen as having a vital role within an ageing population, and their Education and Employment contribution to community wellbeing has been somewhat overlooked, as they are in Key issues raised surrounding education related primarily to mental health and need of further supports. accessibility. It was suggested that mindfulness, meditation and yoga be introduced to schools programmes, as well as making those tools available to the public at large. Services and Supports Teaching sign language in school was also suggested as a means creating a more Again, mental health was of concern to those participating in the consultation. inclusive society and raising awareness around accessibility. It was also felt there was Additional services are needed around mental health projects in the region, as well as a need for education around issues of ageism. increased access to counselling services. It was also noted that there is a gap in Social exclusion was raised as a concern, and the introduction of courses to help suicide prevention services and training in the region. those feeling isolated from the community, as well as more flexible community Transport services were seen as inadequate, especially in rural areas, where older employment schemes in rural areas (and the addition of career guidance facilities), members of the community might find it difficult to access it. This was seen as a were seen as two possible solutions to this problem. massive contributing factor to issues of isolation and loneliness. Outreach centres in rural areas were also suggested as a means of combating those issues, as well as improving access to already existing day care centres. The role of home carers was also highlighted, and improvement in this area was needed.

Community Investment in inter-generational community facilities was seen as a vital project for communities across Longford.

Infrastructure, Housing, and Outdoor Facilities Accessibility is a concern for residents, who feel there isn’t enough of an emphasis being put on accessible public buildings and footpaths. Older residents find this of particular concern. A requirement for appropriate housing for older residents (and disability appropriate housing) was also highlighted, as well as tenancy sustainment support. Infrastructure to promote an active and healthy lifestyle was also highlighted as a gap in the region. Ensuring walking and bike routes are well lit and safe, as well as introducing walk and cycle to work initiatives in the area were seen as a priority. Development of natural resources, amenities and green spaces was also seen as a way of encouraging this active lifestyle, while the introduction of community allotments was suggested as a way to promote healthy eating. It was suggested that outdoor exercise equipment would be a good addition to existing green areas, and combined with a collective effort to promote access to sports in the area, could make living a healthy, active lifestyle far more achievable for many residents.

Youth With regards younger residents, it was suggested that there should be more of an effort made to involve them in inter-generational community groups and a need, in general, for other initiatives aimed at teens.

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Carers were seen as having a vital role within an ageing population, and their Education and Employment contribution to community wellbeing has been somewhat overlooked, as they are in Key issues raised surrounding education related primarily to mental health and need of further supports. accessibility. It was suggested that mindfulness, meditation and yoga be introduced to schools programmes, as well as making those tools available to the public at large. Services and Supports Teaching sign language in school was also suggested as a means creating a more Again, mental health was of concern to those participating in the consultation. inclusive society and raising awareness around accessibility. It was also felt there was Additional services are needed around mental health projects in the region, as well as a need for education around issues of ageism. increased access to counselling services. It was also noted that there is a gap in Social exclusion was raised as a concern, and the introduction of courses to help suicide prevention services and training in the region. those feeling isolated from the community, as well as more flexible community Transport services were seen as inadequate, especially in rural areas, where older employment schemes in rural areas (and the addition of career guidance facilities), members of the community might find it difficult to access it. This was seen as a were seen as two possible solutions to this problem. massive contributing factor to issues of isolation and loneliness. Outreach centres in rural areas were also suggested as a means of combating those issues, as well as improving access to already existing day care centres. The role of home carers was also highlighted, and improvement in this area was needed.

Community Investment in inter-generational community facilities was seen as a vital project for communities across Longford.

Infrastructure, Housing, and Outdoor Facilities Accessibility is a concern for residents, who feel there isn’t enough of an emphasis being put on accessible public buildings and footpaths. Older residents find this of particular concern. A requirement for appropriate housing for older residents (and disability appropriate housing) was also highlighted, as well as tenancy sustainment support. Infrastructure to promote an active and healthy lifestyle was also highlighted as a gap in the region. Ensuring walking and bike routes are well lit and safe, as well as introducing walk and cycle to work initiatives in the area were seen as a priority. Development of natural resources, amenities and green spaces was also seen as a way of encouraging this active lifestyle, while the introduction of community allotments was suggested as a way to promote healthy eating. It was suggested that outdoor exercise equipment would be a good addition to existing green areas, and combined with a collective effort to promote access to sports in the area, could make living a healthy, active lifestyle far more achievable for many residents.

Youth With regards younger residents, it was suggested that there should be more of an effort made to involve them in inter-generational community groups and a need, in general, for other initiatives aimed at teens.

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 Coordinator, Midlands Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force Section F: Healthy Longford Strategic Priorities  Foróige  Healthy Longford sub-committee F1 LECP High Level Goals  HSE Health Promotion Officer HLG 1: Maximise economic activity, pursue new growth opportunities and support  HSE Physical Activity Co-ordinator pathways to educational attainment;  HSE CADS (Community Alcohol and Drug Service) HLG 2: Reduce poverty, disadvantage and social exclusion and promote equality in  the community; HSE Resource Officer for suicide prevention  Longford Community Development Committee including HLG 3: Improve prosperity, health/wellbeing and quality of life of the community;  Longford Community Resources CLG This goal covers the remits of Health, Crime and Housing. In terms of health,  Longford County Councils National Plan ‘Healthy Ireland Implementation Plan 2015 – the -2017 A  Framework for Improved Health and Wellbeing’ contains a Vision whereby Longford Primary and Secondary schools everyone can enjoy physical and mental health to their full potential, where  Longford Public Participation Network level of society and is everyone’s wellbeing is valued and supported at every  Longford Sports and Recreation Officer responsibility.  Longford Sports Partnership At a local level the Baseline Study indicates that 13.9% of the population of the County have a disability and that the County has an aging population. In terms  Longford Traveller Development Group of crime, this has been increasing at a higher rate than many other Counties in  Longford Women’s Link the Midland Region. The SWOT analysis associated with the Baseline Study  identifies as a threat the failure to address crime rates as having potentially Youth Work Ireland, Longford adverse social and economic implications. In terms of housing, the County has more social housing schemes than neighbouring Counties, but a weakness is F3 Strategic Actions identified in terms of the requirement for additional funding to support social housing requirements. Domestic Violence and homelessness are also key Health inequalities are the differences in health between sections of the population issues in the County. The Public consultation and Stakeholder engagement that occur as a result of differences in social and educational opportunities, financial process raised concerns in relation to required improvements in terms of health resources, housing conditions, nutrition, work patterns and conditions and unequal facilities, crime rates, public safety and general wellbeing. Accordingly, this access to health services. A substantial body of research has established that those goal aims to address the aforementioned issues raised. who are poorer or are disadvantaged are more likely to face more illness in their HLG 4: Maximise the attractiveness of County Longford as a favourable place in lifetime and die younger than those who are better off. This means that the chances which to live, visit work and transact business; of a long and healthy life are not the same for everyone. HLG 5: Improve the level and quality of community identity, solidarity, civic pride and participation; HLG 6: Utilise the natural, cultural and built environment in accordance with the principles of sustainable development.

F2 Strategic Partners

Healthy Longford actions are based on a collaborative approach engaging with key sectors and organisations for each action and envisaging the addition of local partners as actions extend throughout the County.  Appropriate Community and Voluntary Sector Groups

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 Coordinator, Midlands Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force Section F: Healthy Longford Strategic Priorities  Foróige  Healthy Longford sub-committee F1 LECP High Level Goals  HSE Health Promotion Officer HLG 1: Maximise economic activity, pursue new growth opportunities and support  HSE Physical Activity Co-ordinator pathways to educational attainment;  HSE CADS (Community Alcohol and Drug Service) HLG 2: Reduce poverty, disadvantage and social exclusion and promote equality in  the community; HSE Resource Officer for suicide prevention  Longford Community Development Committee including HLG 3: Improve prosperity, health/wellbeing and quality of life of the community;  Longford Community Resources CLG This goal covers the remits of Health, Crime and Housing. In terms of health,  Longford County Councils National Plan ‘Healthy Ireland Implementation Plan 2015 – the -2017 A  Framework for Improved Health and Wellbeing’ contains a Vision whereby Longford Primary and Secondary schools everyone can enjoy physical and mental health to their full potential, where  Longford Public Participation Network level of society and is everyone’s wellbeing is valued and supported at every  Longford Sports and Recreation Officer responsibility.  Longford Sports Partnership At a local level the Baseline Study indicates that 13.9% of the population of the County have a disability and that the County has an aging population. In terms  Longford Traveller Development Group of crime, this has been increasing at a higher rate than many other Counties in  Longford Women’s Link the Midland Region. The SWOT analysis associated with the Baseline Study  identifies as a threat the failure to address crime rates as having potentially Youth Work Ireland, Longford adverse social and economic implications. In terms of housing, the County has more social housing schemes than neighbouring Counties, but a weakness is F3 Strategic Actions identified in terms of the requirement for additional funding to support social housing requirements. Domestic Violence and homelessness are also key Health inequalities are the differences in health between sections of the population issues in the County. The Public consultation and Stakeholder engagement that occur as a result of differences in social and educational opportunities, financial process raised concerns in relation to required improvements in terms of health resources, housing conditions, nutrition, work patterns and conditions and unequal facilities, crime rates, public safety and general wellbeing. Accordingly, this access to health services. A substantial body of research has established that those goal aims to address the aforementioned issues raised. who are poorer or are disadvantaged are more likely to face more illness in their HLG 4: Maximise the attractiveness of County Longford as a favourable place in lifetime and die younger than those who are better off. This means that the chances which to live, visit work and transact business; of a long and healthy life are not the same for everyone. HLG 5: Improve the level and quality of community identity, solidarity, civic pride and participation; HLG 6: Utilise the natural, cultural and built environment in accordance with the principles of sustainable development.

F2 Strategic Partners

Healthy Longford actions are based on a collaborative approach engaging with key sectors and organisations for each action and envisaging the addition of local partners as actions extend throughout the County.  Appropriate Community and Voluntary Sector Groups

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Figure 2 – Determinants of Health referenced to the socio-demographic profile of the county. The process ensures that the priority themes that have been developed are fully coherent with Healthy Ireland, Longford LECP, and the full range of relevant national strategies. They are also grounded in the socio-demographic profile of the population, enabling needs to be addressed and delivery indicators developed. Using the tool above, it has been determined that there are five priority themes that will underpin the Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022.

Source: Dalghren and Whitehead4 The opportunity to address existing and potential health inequalities underpins the analysis of the information that was gathered in the preparation of the Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022. To achieve this a process of triangulation was used to identify the key priorities for the Plan, and for the actions that will be used to implement the plan. Figure 3 – Triangulation Model

Using this approach, the outcome of the consultation process were aligned to the review of strategic policy at both national and county level, and was then further

4 Social Model of Health: Göran Dahlgren and Margaret Whitehead (1991) - maps the relationship between the individual, their environment and health. Individuals are placed at the centre, and surrounding them are the various layers of influences on health such as individual lifestyle factors, community influences, living and working conditions, and more general social conditions. HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 43 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 44 22/08/2018

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Figure 2 – Determinants of Health referenced to the socio-demographic profile of the county. The process ensures that the priority themes that have been developed are fully coherent with Healthy Ireland, Longford LECP, and the full range of relevant national strategies. They are also grounded in the socio-demographic profile of the population, enabling needs to be addressed and delivery indicators developed. Using the tool above, it has been determined that there are five priority themes that will underpin the Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022.

Source: Dalghren and Whitehead4 The opportunity to address existing and potential health inequalities underpins the analysis of the information that was gathered in the preparation of the Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022. To achieve this a process of triangulation was used to identify the key priorities for the Plan, and for the actions that will be used to implement the plan. Figure 3 – Triangulation Model

Using this approach, the outcome of the consultation process were aligned to the review of strategic policy at both national and county level, and was then further

4 Social Model of Health: Göran Dahlgren and Margaret Whitehead (1991) - maps the relationship between the individual, their environment and health. Individuals are placed at the centre, and surrounding them are the various layers of influences on health such as individual lifestyle factors, community influences, living and working conditions, and more general social conditions. HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 43 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 44 22/08/2018

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F3.2 Priority Actions: Healthy Ireland Themes

Physical Activity: The aim of the Healthy Longford Plan is provide actions to promote increased levels of physical activity in Longford. Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to support 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing. community organisations and groups to deliver participants particularly among target groups NPAP community based physical activity and well- Longford Sports Strategy being programmes targeting all population groups, including those who are disadvantaged, Get Ireland Walking Strategy people with disabilities, young people and their National Cycle Strategy Framework families through the Healthy Ireland Fund and Longford LECP ensure those programmes are in alignment with National Disability Inclusion Policy the objectives of the Longford Sports SICAP Plan Partnership Strategy. Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to overseeing 2018-2022 Increase in walking and cycle routes in planning Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing the delivery of the Longford Walking and and development. NPAP Cycling Strategy and will work with the Planning Longford Sports Strategy and Roads Sections of Longford County Council to ensure that all new developments Get Ireland Walking Strategy shall facilitate everyone to be able to walk and National Cycle Strategy Framework cycle in their daily lives. In existing Longford LECP communities, Healthy Longford is committed to Longford Development Plan upgrading walking and cycling infrastructure. Longford Development Plan Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to support the 2018-2022 Increase in walking and cycle routes in planning Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing delivery of Get Ireland Walking Strategy by and development. NPAP working with key stakeholders and communities Longford Sports Strategy to support the development and promotion of the Royal Canal Greenway, walking trails and Longford LECP other off road routes suitable for walking and cycling.

/continued

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F3.1 Priority Actions: GENERAL POLICY & CROSS CUTTING ACTIONS

Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Improve the structures and links relating to the A Healthy Longford Steering Group will be 2018-2019 Creation and implementation of Healthy Healthy Ireland promotion of positive health and wellbeing. established to oversee the development of the Longford Steering Group and Plan. NPAP Healthy Longford initiative and implementation Get Ireland Walking Strategy and progress of the Healthy Longford Plan. Members of the Healthy Longford Steering A Healthy Weight for Ireland Group will represent key stakeholders and Tobacco Free Ireland reflect the social determinants of health. This Connecting for Life, Ireland’s National Strategy group will report to the LCDC. to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020. Improve access to information relating to health Healthy Longford is committed to working in 2018-2022 Increase in number of events and participants Connecting for Life Midlands Louth Meath and wellbeing. partnership with the elected representatives engaged. 2018-2020. (Councillors) of Longford County Council to National Positive Aging Strategy build their awareness of the social determinants Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery of health, health inequalities and developing National Sexual Health Strategy effective political responses to create a truly Healthy Longford. Longford LECP National Strategy for Women and Girls Improve the structures and links relating to the Empower and support community groups to 2018-2022 Increase in number of events and participants promotion of positive health and wellbeing at work engage with the Healthy Longford engaged. 2017-2020: creating a better society for all local level initiative. Work with the Longford PPN to develop a ‘Community Health Champions’ programme. Build capacity of Healthy Longford in terms of Apply for Healthy Cities and Counties status for 2018-2022 Membership and participation in Healthy Cities promoting health and wellbeing. County Longford and membership of the and Counties Network. National Network of Healthy Cities and Counties of Ireland.

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F3.2 Priority Actions: Healthy Ireland Themes

Physical Activity: The aim of the Healthy Longford Plan is provide actions to promote increased levels of physical activity in Longford. Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to support 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing. community organisations and groups to deliver participants particularly among target groups NPAP community based physical activity and well- Longford Sports Strategy being programmes targeting all population groups, including those who are disadvantaged, Get Ireland Walking Strategy people with disabilities, young people and their National Cycle Strategy Framework families through the Healthy Ireland Fund and Longford LECP ensure those programmes are in alignment with National Disability Inclusion Policy the objectives of the Longford Sports SICAP Plan Partnership Strategy. Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to overseeing 2018-2022 Increase in walking and cycle routes in planning Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing the delivery of the Longford Walking and and development. NPAP Cycling Strategy and will work with the Planning Longford Sports Strategy and Roads Sections of Longford County Council to ensure that all new developments Get Ireland Walking Strategy shall facilitate everyone to be able to walk and National Cycle Strategy Framework cycle in their daily lives. In existing Longford LECP communities, Healthy Longford is committed to Longford Development Plan upgrading walking and cycling infrastructure. Longford Development Plan Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to support the 2018-2022 Increase in walking and cycle routes in planning Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing delivery of Get Ireland Walking Strategy by and development. NPAP working with key stakeholders and communities Longford Sports Strategy to support the development and promotion of the Royal Canal Greenway, walking trails and Longford LECP other off road routes suitable for walking and cycling.

/continued

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Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022

F3.1 Priority Actions: GENERAL POLICY & CROSS CUTTING ACTIONS

Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Improve the structures and links relating to the A Healthy Longford Steering Group will be 2018-2019 Creation and implementation of Healthy Healthy Ireland promotion of positive health and wellbeing. established to oversee the development of the Longford Steering Group and Plan. NPAP Healthy Longford initiative and implementation Get Ireland Walking Strategy and progress of the Healthy Longford Plan. Members of the Healthy Longford Steering A Healthy Weight for Ireland Group will represent key stakeholders and Tobacco Free Ireland reflect the social determinants of health. This Connecting for Life, Ireland’s National Strategy group will report to the LCDC. to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020. Improve access to information relating to health Healthy Longford is committed to working in 2018-2022 Increase in number of events and participants Connecting for Life Midlands Louth Meath and wellbeing. partnership with the elected representatives engaged. 2018-2020. (Councillors) of Longford County Council to National Positive Aging Strategy build their awareness of the social determinants Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery of health, health inequalities and developing National Sexual Health Strategy effective political responses to create a truly Healthy Longford. Longford LECP National Strategy for Women and Girls Improve the structures and links relating to the Empower and support community groups to 2018-2022 Increase in number of events and participants promotion of positive health and wellbeing at work engage with the Healthy Longford engaged. 2017-2020: creating a better society for all local level initiative. Work with the Longford PPN to develop a ‘Community Health Champions’ programme. Build capacity of Healthy Longford in terms of Apply for Healthy Cities and Counties status for 2018-2022 Membership and participation in Healthy Cities promoting health and wellbeing. County Longford and membership of the and Counties Network. National Network of Healthy Cities and Counties of Ireland.

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Mental Health and Wellbeing: Mental health is a growing health, social and economic issue and it is expected that depressive mental illnesses will be the leading cause of chronic disease in high-income countries by 2030. Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to working with 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing key stakeholders and all population groups to participants particularly among target groups NPAP identify particular needs and deliver Get Ireland Walking Strategy programmes to support mental health and wellbeing in conjunction with the Healthy Ireland A Healthy Weight for Ireland Fund. Tobacco Free Ireland Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to supporting the 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Connecting for Life, Ireland’s National Strategy mental/physical wellbeing implementation of the Connecting for Life, participants particularly among target groups to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020, Ireland’s National Strategy to Reduce Suicide Connecting for Life Midlands Louth Meath 2018- 2015-2020 and, in particular, to play a key role 2020. in the implementation of Connecting for Life National Positive Aging Strategy Midlands Louth Meath 2018-2020 which has Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery been developed to ensure that local actions and National Sexual Health Strategy outcomes are aligned with and responsive to the national strategy. Longford LECP National Disability Inclusion Policy 2018-2022 Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to working with a Increase in number of programmes and mental/physical wellbeing participants particularly among target groups Longford Local Development Strategy supporting key stakeholders and all population National Strategy for Women and Girls groups in the implementation of the National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020 2017-2020: creating a better society for all Objective Two: Advance the Physical and Mental Health and Wellbeing of Women and

Girls and Objective Five: Combat Violence Against Women.

2018.2022 Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to working with Increase in number of programmes and mental/physical wellbeing and supporting key stakeholders and population participants particularly among target groups groups in the implementation of the Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based violence.

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18/10/2018 15:58

/continued

Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Promotion of healthy lifestyles and In conjunction with the Longford Walking and 2018-2022 Increase in active travel among general Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing Cycling Strategy, Healthy Longford is population and target groups. NPAP committed to promoting Smarter Travel Longford Sports Strategy initiatives among schools, work places and communities in Longford. Get Ireland Walking Strategy National Cycle Strategy Framework Longford LECP Longford Development Plan Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to supporting the 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing implementation of the Longford Sports participants particularly among target groups NPAP Partnership Strategy. Longford Sports Strategy Get Ireland Walking Strategy National Cycle Strategy Framework Longford LECP Longford Development Plan National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020: creating a better society for all

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Mental Health and Wellbeing: Mental health is a growing health, social and economic issue and it is expected that depressive mental illnesses will be the leading cause of chronic disease in high-income countries by 2030. Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to working with 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing key stakeholders and all population groups to participants particularly among target groups NPAP identify particular needs and deliver Get Ireland Walking Strategy programmes to support mental health and wellbeing in conjunction with the Healthy Ireland A Healthy Weight for Ireland Fund. Tobacco Free Ireland Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to supporting the 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Connecting for Life, Ireland’s National Strategy mental/physical wellbeing implementation of the Connecting for Life, participants particularly among target groups to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020, Ireland’s National Strategy to Reduce Suicide Connecting for Life Midlands Louth Meath 2018- 2015-2020 and, in particular, to play a key role 2020. in the implementation of Connecting for Life National Positive Aging Strategy Midlands Louth Meath 2018-2020 which has Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery been developed to ensure that local actions and National Sexual Health Strategy outcomes are aligned with and responsive to the national strategy. Longford LECP National Disability Inclusion Policy 2018-2022 Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to working with a Increase in number of programmes and mental/physical wellbeing participants particularly among target groups Longford Local Development Strategy supporting key stakeholders and all population National Strategy for Women and Girls groups in the implementation of the National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020 2017-2020: creating a better society for all Objective Two: Advance the Physical and Mental Health and Wellbeing of Women and

Girls and Objective Five: Combat Violence Against Women.

2018.2022 Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to working with Increase in number of programmes and mental/physical wellbeing and supporting key stakeholders and population participants particularly among target groups groups in the implementation of the Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based violence.

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/continued

Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Promotion of healthy lifestyles and In conjunction with the Longford Walking and 2018-2022 Increase in active travel among general Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing Cycling Strategy, Healthy Longford is population and target groups. NPAP committed to promoting Smarter Travel Longford Sports Strategy initiatives among schools, work places and communities in Longford. Get Ireland Walking Strategy National Cycle Strategy Framework Longford LECP Longford Development Plan Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to supporting the 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing implementation of the Longford Sports participants particularly among target groups NPAP Partnership Strategy. Longford Sports Strategy Get Ireland Walking Strategy National Cycle Strategy Framework Longford LECP Longford Development Plan National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020: creating a better society for all

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Sexual Health: The aim of the Longford Healthy Plan is to work towards everyone experiencing positive sexual health and wellbeing and having access to high quality sexual health information, education and services. Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Encouragement of a healthy attitude towards Working with key stakeholders Healthy Longford 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland sexuality. will support the delivery of the National Sexual participants particularly among target groups National Sexual Health Strategy Health Strategy 2015-2020. Longford LECP National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020: creating a better society for all Encouragement of a healthy attitude towards Healthy Longford is committed to working with 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland sexuality schools, youth services and youth orientated participants particularly among target groups NPAP organisations to promote education on all Get Ireland Walking Strategy aspects of sexuality, sexual health and healthy relationships to all young people in our A Healthy Weight for Ireland community. Longford LECP National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020: creating a better society for all

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Healthy Weight: The Healthy Longford Plan provides an opportunity to act and set the direction towards reversing the trend of increasing rates of obesity. Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to targeting the 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing. factors that can contribute to weight gain – participants particularly among target groups. Longford LECP Supporting positive aging. including, but not limited to, lack of opportunity National Strategy for Women and Girls to engage in physical activity; access to nutritious food; raising awareness of the impact 2017-2020: creating a better society for all of sedentary lifestyles and the availability of convenience food. Through raising awareness among key stakeholders, lobbying for action at strategic level and supporting the implementation of the key policy A Healthy Weight for All.

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Sexual Health: The aim of the Longford Healthy Plan is to work towards everyone experiencing positive sexual health and wellbeing and having access to high quality sexual health information, education and services. Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Encouragement of a healthy attitude towards Working with key stakeholders Healthy Longford 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland sexuality. will support the delivery of the National Sexual participants particularly among target groups National Sexual Health Strategy Health Strategy 2015-2020. Longford LECP National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020: creating a better society for all Encouragement of a healthy attitude towards Healthy Longford is committed to working with 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland sexuality schools, youth services and youth orientated participants particularly among target groups NPAP organisations to promote education on all Get Ireland Walking Strategy aspects of sexuality, sexual health and healthy relationships to all young people in our A Healthy Weight for Ireland community. Longford LECP National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020: creating a better society for all

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Healthy Weight: The Healthy Longford Plan provides an opportunity to act and set the direction towards reversing the trend of increasing rates of obesity. Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Promotion of healthy lifestyles and Healthy Longford is committed to targeting the 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland mental/physical wellbeing. factors that can contribute to weight gain – participants particularly among target groups. Longford LECP Supporting positive aging. including, but not limited to, lack of opportunity National Strategy for Women and Girls to engage in physical activity; access to nutritious food; raising awareness of the impact 2017-2020: creating a better society for all of sedentary lifestyles and the availability of convenience food. Through raising awareness among key stakeholders, lobbying for action at strategic level and supporting the implementation of the key policy A Healthy Weight for All.

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Tobacco and Substance Abuse: Smoking is a leading cause of preventable death in Ireland. Alcohol misuse is also widespread and according to health research, 56% of Irish People drink in a harmful manner. As well as a danger of addiction, drug misuse has serious health risks and is associated with a wide range of conditions and complications, both physical and psychological. Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Supporting community engagement in areas Healthy Longford is committed to working with 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland most impacted by drugs and alcohol misuse. HSE Health Promotion & Improvement Service participants particularly among target groups NPAP to create a ‘smoke free Longford’ through which should lead to a decrease in the number Get Ireland Walking Strategy empowering smokers to engage with HSE QUIT smokers. and local smoking cessation services and A Healthy Weight for Ireland restricting smoking in public places, in particular Tobacco Free Ireland those managed by the Longford County Connecting for Life, Ireland’s National Strategy Council. to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020. Healthy Longford will engage with the Regional 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Connecting for Life Midlands Louth Meath 2018- Drugs Task Force and community groups in participants particularly among target groups 2020, implementing initiatives to tackle substance National Positive Aging Strategy abuse and support those in recovery Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery Ensure that the supply of alcohol is restricted or 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and National Sexual Health Strategy eliminated at events and festivals supported by participants particularly among target groups. National Strategy for Women and Girls the Council. Increase in number of alcohol free festivals in 2017-2020: creating a better society for all the County. Longford LECP Healthy Ireland is committed to working with 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and National Disability Inclusion Policy local stakeholders to raise awareness and participants particularly among target groups Longford Local Development Strategy understanding of the direct links between domestic violence and substance abuse, as well as mental health issues.

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Tobacco and Substance Abuse: Smoking is a leading cause of preventable death in Ireland. Alcohol misuse is also widespread and according to health research, 56% of Irish People drink in a harmful manner. As well as a danger of addiction, drug misuse has serious health risks and is associated with a wide range of conditions and complications, both physical and psychological. Objective/Priority Action Implementation Timeframe Performance Indicator Strategic Link to Other Plans Supporting community engagement in areas Healthy Longford is committed to working with 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Healthy Ireland most impacted by drugs and alcohol misuse. HSE Health Promotion & Improvement Service participants particularly among target groups NPAP to create a ‘smoke free Longford’ through which should lead to a decrease in the number Get Ireland Walking Strategy empowering smokers to engage with HSE QUIT smokers. and local smoking cessation services and A Healthy Weight for Ireland restricting smoking in public places, in particular Tobacco Free Ireland those managed by the Longford County Connecting for Life, Ireland’s National Strategy Council. to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020. Healthy Longford will engage with the Regional 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and Connecting for Life Midlands Louth Meath 2018- Drugs Task Force and community groups in participants particularly among target groups 2020, implementing initiatives to tackle substance National Positive Aging Strategy abuse and support those in recovery Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery Ensure that the supply of alcohol is restricted or 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and National Sexual Health Strategy eliminated at events and festivals supported by participants particularly among target groups. National Strategy for Women and Girls the Council. Increase in number of alcohol free festivals in 2017-2020: creating a better society for all the County. Longford LECP Healthy Ireland is committed to working with 2018-2022 Increase in number of programmes and National Disability Inclusion Policy local stakeholders to raise awareness and participants particularly among target groups Longford Local Development Strategy understanding of the direct links between domestic violence and substance abuse, as well as mental health issues.

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Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022

H3 Resourcing Section I: Monitoring and Review Many of the actions identified in this plan are designed to complement actions and activities that are projected to be implemented by the key stakeholders over the period Monitoring is the systematic collection and analysis of information as the 2018-2022. To achieve the implementation of the proposed actions it is to be implementation of the Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 progresses. It is aimed at understood that there will be a continuing need for resources from Government to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of delivery, and is a key tool for good carry out some of the actions. management by providing a basis for evaluation. Evaluation is the comparison of actual implementation impacts against the agreed Healthy Longford Plan. It can be formative (taking place during the life of the initiative), and it can also be summative (drawing learning from a completed initiative). Monitoring and evaluation are both geared towards learning from what and how implementation is proceeding, by focusing on: -  Efficiency;  Effectiveness; and  Impact In conformity with best practice, Longford LCDC proposes to vest responsibility for the monitoring and evaluation of the Healthy Longford Plan with the Healthy Longford Team. The membership of the group might be augmented to reinforce the level of monitoring and evaluation skills,

I1 Monitoring and Evaluation Framework

In the first instance the objectives and actions in the Healthy Longford Plan, incorporating the relevant targets, timescale, performance indicators and progress milestones will form the basis for the monitoring, evaluation and review framework.

I1.1 Framework Model

Subject to further development by Longford LCDC and the Healthy Longford Team, it is proposed that the following model will form the basis for the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework.

Implementation Monitoring

Each of the actions within the Healthy Longford Plan will require the development and agreement of a set of metrics by which the pathway of implementation can be measured.

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H3 Resourcing Section I: Monitoring and Review Many of the actions identified in this plan are designed to complement actions and activities that are projected to be implemented by the key stakeholders over the period Monitoring is the systematic collection and analysis of information as the 2018-2022. To achieve the implementation of the proposed actions it is to be implementation of the Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 progresses. It is aimed at understood that there will be a continuing need for resources from Government to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of delivery, and is a key tool for good carry out some of the actions. management by providing a basis for evaluation. Evaluation is the comparison of actual implementation impacts against the agreed Healthy Longford Plan. It can be formative (taking place during the life of the initiative), and it can also be summative (drawing learning from a completed initiative). Monitoring and evaluation are both geared towards learning from what and how implementation is proceeding, by focusing on: -  Efficiency;  Effectiveness; and  Impact In conformity with best practice, Longford LCDC proposes to vest responsibility for the monitoring and evaluation of the Healthy Longford Plan with the Healthy Longford Team. The membership of the group might be augmented to reinforce the level of monitoring and evaluation skills,

I1 Monitoring and Evaluation Framework

In the first instance the objectives and actions in the Healthy Longford Plan, incorporating the relevant targets, timescale, performance indicators and progress milestones will form the basis for the monitoring, evaluation and review framework.

I1.1 Framework Model

Subject to further development by Longford LCDC and the Healthy Longford Team, it is proposed that the following model will form the basis for the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework.

Implementation Monitoring

Each of the actions within the Healthy Longford Plan will require the development and agreement of a set of metrics by which the pathway of implementation can be measured.

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Figure 4 – Monitoring Model  Identify barriers experienced in delivery – particularly in relation to specific issues which have prevented effective engagement;  Identify any secondary effects – capturing experience of unplanned positive or negative effects of implementation, and the attendant contributing factors; and  Assess impact – whether the implementation can be expected to last after implementation has been completed.

Periodic Evaluation

Given that the Healthy Longford Plan will cover the period 2018-2022, it is proposed that an annual evaluation process will be undertaken to reflect on the lessons being learnt through the monitoring process, and to allow for adjustments in the future direction of the Healthy Longford Plan. Subject to ratification, it is proposed that the following overarching evaluation framework will be used. Figure 5 – Evaluation Framework Model

Using the above approach, it is proposed that the evaluation framework will: -  Assess the performance of delivery – based on the delivery of the prioritised objectives relative to the high-level goals measured at implementation level;  Assess the effectiveness of delivery – the extent to which implementation matches the identified needs;  Determine the efficiency of delivery – measured at implementation level in terms of the practical elements of resource management, engagement, communication and liaison with all relevant stakeholders;  Determine the relevance of delivery – as measured by the extent to which implementation led to achieving the high level goals;

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Figure 4 – Monitoring Model  Identify barriers experienced in delivery – particularly in relation to specific issues which have prevented effective engagement;  Identify any secondary effects – capturing experience of unplanned positive or negative effects of implementation, and the attendant contributing factors; and  Assess impact – whether the implementation can be expected to last after implementation has been completed.

Periodic Evaluation

Given that the Healthy Longford Plan will cover the period 2018-2022, it is proposed that an annual evaluation process will be undertaken to reflect on the lessons being learnt through the monitoring process, and to allow for adjustments in the future direction of the Healthy Longford Plan. Subject to ratification, it is proposed that the following overarching evaluation framework will be used. Figure 5 – Evaluation Framework Model

Using the above approach, it is proposed that the evaluation framework will: -  Assess the performance of delivery – based on the delivery of the prioritised objectives relative to the high-level goals measured at implementation level;  Assess the effectiveness of delivery – the extent to which implementation matches the identified needs;  Determine the efficiency of delivery – measured at implementation level in terms of the practical elements of resource management, engagement, communication and liaison with all relevant stakeholders;  Determine the relevance of delivery – as measured by the extent to which implementation led to achieving the high level goals;

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Z1 Socio-Economic Profile

This Socio-Economic Profile is based upon the County Longford Local Economic and Community Plan 2016-20225.

Z1.1 Overview In 2016 County Longford was the second smallest county (measured by population) in the State at 40,873 (CSO Census of Population). The county was the fourth smallest Appendices of the 32 counties in area (1,091 sq. km). In 2016, the county had a population density of 37.4 persons per sq. km, compared to the state at 70 persons per sq. km. County Longford’s population growth during the period 2002-2006 (10.6%) was stronger than that of the State at 8.2%. In the intercensal period 2011-2016, the population of the county grew by 4.8% compared to the State at 3.8% (slowest rate of growth in twenty years). Quality road and rail networks that provide arterial connections to Dublin City, some 100 km distant, serve County Longford, placing it on the periphery of the commuting distance of the city. Belfast City is approximately 200 km distant. Map 1 – County Longford Electoral Divisions

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

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Z1 Socio-Economic Profile

This Socio-Economic Profile is based upon the County Longford Local Economic and Community Plan 2016-20225.

Z1.1 Overview In 2016 County Longford was the second smallest county (measured by population) in the State at 40,873 (CSO Census of Population). The county was the fourth smallest Appendices of the 32 counties in area (1,091 sq. km). In 2016, the county had a population density of 37.4 persons per sq. km, compared to the state at 70 persons per sq. km. County Longford’s population growth during the period 2002-2006 (10.6%) was stronger than that of the State at 8.2%. In the intercensal period 2011-2016, the population of the county grew by 4.8% compared to the State at 3.8% (slowest rate of growth in twenty years). Quality road and rail networks that provide arterial connections to Dublin City, some 100 km distant, serve County Longford, placing it on the periphery of the commuting distance of the city. Belfast City is approximately 200 km distant. Map 1 – County Longford Electoral Divisions

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

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County Longford is centrally and strategically located in the Midlands of Ireland During the intercensal period 2006-2016 the population of the State increased by providing ease of access to national and international markets making it an attractive 11%, whilst the Eastern and Midlands Regional Assembly area increased by 15%, the location for inward investment. It is a strategic transport hub located on two National former NUTS III Midland Strategic Planning Area increased by 16.1% and Co, Primary Routes; the N4 from Dublin to Sligo and the N5 from Dublin to Mayo. Longford increased by 18.8%. Secondary routes also cross the County including the N55 linking Athlone and Cavan In 2016 there were 20,587 (50.4%) males and 20,286 (49.6%) females resident in the into Northern Ireland, and the N63 linking Longford with Roscommon and Galway. county. The County is also serviced by the Dublin to Sligo Inter-City railway line with two Figure 6 – County Longford Gender Balance 2016 stations; Longford Town and Edgeworthstown. Longford Town is centrally located within the county and serves a wide catchment area. From a natural amenity perspective County Longford lies in the basin of the River Shannon and Lough Ree and has some of Ireland’s oldest and best-preserved peatlands. Other natural amenities include the Royal Canal, River Camlin, Lough Gowna, Newcastle and Derrycassan Forest.

Z1.2 Demographics

Z1.2.1 Population

Ireland experienced a population growth of 31.32% over the intercensal period 1996 Table 9 - Population Trend 1996-2016

to 2016; however, during the period 2011-2016 the population of the State grew by Census State Leinster County Longford 3.78%. During the period 1996 to 2016 the population of Leinster increased at a 1996 3,626,087 1,924,702 30,166 comparative rate of 38.67%, whilst increasing by 5.17% between 2011 and 2016. 2002 3,917,203 2,105,579 31,068 Map 2 – County Longford Population Distribution by ED 2006 4,239,848 2,295,123 34,391 2011 4,588,252 2,504,814 39,000 2016 4,761,865 2,634,403 40,873

Source: CSO Census of Population The population growth that has been experienced in Co Longford can be largely attributed to external and internal migration (due to Longford’s proximity to Dublin) as well as a natural increase in population. Figure 7 – Population Trend 1996-2016

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016 Source: CSO Census of Population

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County Longford is centrally and strategically located in the Midlands of Ireland During the intercensal period 2006-2016 the population of the State increased by providing ease of access to national and international markets making it an attractive 11%, whilst the Eastern and Midlands Regional Assembly area increased by 15%, the location for inward investment. It is a strategic transport hub located on two National former NUTS III Midland Strategic Planning Area increased by 16.1% and Co, Primary Routes; the N4 from Dublin to Sligo and the N5 from Dublin to Mayo. Longford increased by 18.8%. Secondary routes also cross the County including the N55 linking Athlone and Cavan In 2016 there were 20,587 (50.4%) males and 20,286 (49.6%) females resident in the into Northern Ireland, and the N63 linking Longford with Roscommon and Galway. county. The County is also serviced by the Dublin to Sligo Inter-City railway line with two Figure 6 – County Longford Gender Balance 2016 stations; Longford Town and Edgeworthstown. Longford Town is centrally located within the county and serves a wide catchment area. From a natural amenity perspective County Longford lies in the basin of the River Shannon and Lough Ree and has some of Ireland’s oldest and best-preserved peatlands. Other natural amenities include the Royal Canal, River Camlin, Lough Gowna, Newcastle and Derrycassan Forest.

Z1.2 Demographics

Z1.2.1 Population

Ireland experienced a population growth of 31.32% over the intercensal period 1996 Table 9 - Population Trend 1996-2016 to 2016; however, during the period 2011-2016 the population of the State grew by Census State Leinster County Longford 3.78%. During the period 1996 to 2016 the population of Leinster increased at a 1996 3,626,087 1,924,702 30,166 comparative rate of 38.67%, whilst increasing by 5.17% between 2011 and 2016. 2002 3,917,203 2,105,579 31,068 Map 2 – County Longford Population Distribution by ED 2006 4,239,848 2,295,123 34,391 2011 4,588,252 2,504,814 39,000 2016 4,761,865 2,634,403 40,873

Source: CSO Census of Population The population growth that has been experienced in Co Longford can be largely attributed to external and internal migration (due to Longford’s proximity to Dublin) as well as a natural increase in population. Figure 7 – Population Trend 1996-2016

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016 Source: CSO Census of Population

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Table 10 – EDs With Highest Population Growth Age Dependency ED Name Total Total Total Population Population Population Population Population Population Change 2006 Change 2011 Change 2016 2006 2011 2016 At national level age dependency, which is measured as the number of younger (0- Meathas Truim 1,544 2,008 2,335 40.62 30.05 0.21 14) and older (65+) people as a percentage of those of working age (15-64), Longford No. 1 Urban 3,133 3,163 3,592 10.31 0.96 0.17 increased from 49.3% in 2011 to 52.7% in 2016. The number in the 65 and over Ballymahon 1,802 2,327 2,674 16.41 29.13 0.16 category increased by 102,174 – more than twice the 15-64 age category, which rose Longford No. 2 Urban 800 943 1,029 11.67 17.88 0.15 by 44,477 since 2011. Cloondara 575 616 687 4.74 7.13 0.14 Table 11 – Comparative Age Dependency 2016 Kilcommock 595 953 1,062 2.41 60.17 0.12 Population Age Dependency Knockanbaun 146 151 169 10.61 3.42 0.12 Under 15 Over 65 Total Age Under 15: Over 64: Old Total Age Total Ballinamuck East 474 546 599 2.16 15.19 0.11 Dependent Young Age Age Dependency % Population Dependency % Dependency % Source: Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017): 2016 Pobal HP Deprivation Index County 9,508 5,824 15,332 23.26 14.25 37.51 40,873 State 1,006,552 637,567 1,644,119 21.14 13.39 34.53 4,761,865 Population Density Source: CSO Census of Population 2016 In 2016, the population density for County Longford at 39.3 people per square There was a significant decline in the age dependency rate County Longford during kilometre was below the national level of 70.0, thus indicating a relatively high level of the period between 1991 and 2016 (39.0% to 35.0%). population dispersal in the county which locally gives rise to the issue of social Map 3 – Age Dependency Rates by ED 2016 inclusion and rural isolation.

Age Profile

In Census 2016, County Longford returned 62.5% of the population (25,541) as being aged between 15-64 years (working population), which was lower than the State at 65% (3,117,746). Further analysis of the age profile reveals that the proportion of people aged 75 years and older was higher in County Longford at 5.7% (2,321) than the State figure of 5.5% (264,059). Figure 8 - Population Pyramid 2016

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) There is evidence of a typical urban-rural differential with age dependency rates exceeding 40% in nine EDs, Killoe (45.62%), Moyne (44.39%), Lislea (44.14%), Cloondara (44.00%), Drumgort (41.80%), Knockanbaun (40.83%), Ledwithstown

(40.50%), Dalystown (40.31%) and Forgney (40.17%). Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

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Table 10 – EDs With Highest Population Growth Age Dependency ED Name Total Total Total Population Population Population Population Population Population Change 2006 Change 2011 Change 2016 2006 2011 2016 At national level age dependency, which is measured as the number of younger (0- Meathas Truim 1,544 2,008 2,335 40.62 30.05 0.21 14) and older (65+) people as a percentage of those of working age (15-64), Longford No. 1 Urban 3,133 3,163 3,592 10.31 0.96 0.17 increased from 49.3% in 2011 to 52.7% in 2016. The number in the 65 and over Ballymahon 1,802 2,327 2,674 16.41 29.13 0.16 category increased by 102,174 – more than twice the 15-64 age category, which rose Longford No. 2 Urban 800 943 1,029 11.67 17.88 0.15 by 44,477 since 2011. Cloondara 575 616 687 4.74 7.13 0.14 Table 11 – Comparative Age Dependency 2016 Kilcommock 595 953 1,062 2.41 60.17 0.12 Population Age Dependency Knockanbaun 146 151 169 10.61 3.42 0.12 Under 15 Over 65 Total Age Under 15: Over 64: Old Total Age Total Ballinamuck East 474 546 599 2.16 15.19 0.11 Dependent Young Age Age Dependency % Population Dependency % Dependency % Source: Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017): 2016 Pobal HP Deprivation Index County 9,508 5,824 15,332 23.26 14.25 37.51 40,873 State 1,006,552 637,567 1,644,119 21.14 13.39 34.53 4,761,865 Population Density Source: CSO Census of Population 2016 In 2016, the population density for County Longford at 39.3 people per square There was a significant decline in the age dependency rate County Longford during kilometre was below the national level of 70.0, thus indicating a relatively high level of the period between 1991 and 2016 (39.0% to 35.0%). population dispersal in the county which locally gives rise to the issue of social Map 3 – Age Dependency Rates by ED 2016 inclusion and rural isolation.

Age Profile

In Census 2016, County Longford returned 62.5% of the population (25,541) as being aged between 15-64 years (working population), which was lower than the State at 65% (3,117,746). Further analysis of the age profile reveals that the proportion of people aged 75 years and older was higher in County Longford at 5.7% (2,321) than the State figure of 5.5% (264,059). Figure 8 - Population Pyramid 2016

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) There is evidence of a typical urban-rural differential with age dependency rates exceeding 40% in nine EDs, Killoe (45.62%), Moyne (44.39%), Lislea (44.14%), Cloondara (44.00%), Drumgort (41.80%), Knockanbaun (40.83%), Ledwithstown

(40.50%), Dalystown (40.31%) and Forgney (40.17%). Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

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Figure 9 – EDs With Age Dependency Rates >40% Figure 10 – EDs Primary Education Only >27 2016

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Z1.3 Education Map 4 – Primary Education Only by ED 2016

In 2016, 1.6% of the total population of County Longford reported no formal or primary education compared to 1.4% at national level. Table 12 - Educational Attainment in County Longford 2016

Population Aged 15 and Over % Total Population Average Age Education Ceased Whose Education Has Ceased County Longford 26,158 64.00 19.3 State 3,097,052 65.04 19.9

Source CSO StatBank / Profile 10 - Education and Skills and the Irish Language / EA033 There has been a continuous improvement in the level of education amongst adults over the past years throughout Ireland. In 1991, 36.7% of the adult population reported having only primary education. This dropped to half that level (18.9%) in 2006, and dropped significantly in 2011 to 13.8%. In 2016, 8.9% of the adult population of the State were recorded as having only primary education. This figure was identical in County Longford.

Z1.3.1 Low Educational Attainment

The figure below shows the EDs that had the proportion of their population exceeding 27% having attained only primary education. Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017)

Z1.3.2 Third-Level Educational Attainment

There is a growing recognition that the current model of higher education that sees very large numbers of young people proceed directly from school to third-level education might not best serve the countries future skills needs and might not be the

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Figure 9 – EDs With Age Dependency Rates >40% Figure 10 – EDs Primary Education Only >27 2016

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Z1.3 Education Map 4 – Primary Education Only by ED 2016

In 2016, 1.6% of the total population of County Longford reported no formal or primary education compared to 1.4% at national level. Table 12 - Educational Attainment in County Longford 2016

Population Aged 15 and Over % Total Population Average Age Education Ceased Whose Education Has Ceased County Longford 26,158 64.00 19.3 State 3,097,052 65.04 19.9

Source CSO StatBank / Profile 10 - Education and Skills and the Irish Language / EA033 There has been a continuous improvement in the level of education amongst adults over the past years throughout Ireland. In 1991, 36.7% of the adult population reported having only primary education. This dropped to half that level (18.9%) in 2006, and dropped significantly in 2011 to 13.8%. In 2016, 8.9% of the adult population of the State were recorded as having only primary education. This figure was identical in County Longford.

Z1.3.1 Low Educational Attainment

The figure below shows the EDs that had the proportion of their population exceeding 27% having attained only primary education. Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017)

Z1.3.2 Third-Level Educational Attainment

There is a growing recognition that the current model of higher education that sees very large numbers of young people proceed directly from school to third-level education might not best serve the countries future skills needs and might not be the

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best fit for student needs. Having said that, in 2016 all but eight of the EDs in County Longford returned a proportion of their population with third level education exceeding Z1.3.3 Primary and Post Primary Schools 20. Those that exceeded 35 are noted in the figure below. Table 13 - Primary Schools 2017 Figure 11 – EDs Third-Level Attainment > 35 2016 Official Name County DEIS Ethos Description Total Girls Total Boys Total Pupils Cloontagh Mixed National School Longford N Catholic 18 15 33 Colehill Mixed National School Longford N Catholic 61 60 121 Fermoyle Mixed National School Longford Y Catholic 46 61 107 Forgney N National School Longford N Catholic 4 15 19 Gaelscoil An Longfoirt Longford Y Catholic 98 87 185 Killasonna Mixed National School Longford N Catholic 19 26 45 Lanesborough Primary School Longford N Catholic 37 47 84 Naomh Dominic National School Longford N Catholic 86 82 168 Naomh Earnain National School Longford N Catholic 14 11 25 Naomh Guasachta National School Longford N Catholic 25 25 50 Naomh Padraig National School Longford N Catholic 23 26 49 S N An Leana Mor Longford Y Catholic 24 35 59 S N Cnoc An Mharcaigh Longford N Catholic 135 132 267 S N Mhuire Longford N Catholic 35 55 90 S N Naomh Colmcille Longford N Catholic 63 56 119 Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) S N Naomh Mhuire Longford N Catholic 50 50 100 Map 5 – Third-Level Education 2016 S N Naomh Treasa Longford Y Catholic 154 162 316 Saint Mels Longford N Catholic 107 122 229 Samhthann National School Longford N Catholic 73 81 154 Scoil Bhríde Longford N Catholic 14 17 31 Scoil Mhuire Longford N Catholic 39 43 82 Scoil Mhuire National School Longford N Catholic 199 175 374 Scoil Naomh Micheal Longford Y Catholic 0 191 191 St Bernard’s Mixed National School Longford N Catholic 16 18 34 St Columbas Mxd National School Longford N Catholic 21 14 35 St Emer's National School Longford Y Catholic 97 115 212 St Joseph’s Convent Longford Y Catholic 352 156 508 St Marys Mixed National School Longford Y Catholic 119 103 222 St Marys N.S. Longford Y Catholic 156 203 359 St Matthews Mixed National School Longford Y Catholic 154 189 343 St Patricks Longford N Catholic 47 38 85 St Patricks National School, Longford Longford N Catholic 61 77 138 St. John's National School Longford N Church of Ireland 12 13 25 St. Johns National School Longford N Church of Ireland 25 28 53 Stonepark National School Longford N Catholic 117 117 234 Tashinny National School Longford N Church of Ireland 15 14 29 The Sacred Heart Primary National School Longford Y Catholic 76 81 157

Source: Department of Education and Skills Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017)

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115011(3) Turner PG.indd 66 18/10/2018 15:58 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 best fit for student needs. Having said that, in 2016 all but eight of the EDs in County Longford returned a proportion of their population with third level education exceeding Z1.3.3 Primary and Post Primary Schools 20. Those that exceeded 35 are noted in the figure below. Table 13 - Primary Schools 2017 Figure 11 – EDs Third-Level Attainment > 35 2016 Official Name County DEIS Ethos Description Total Girls Total Boys Total Pupils Cloontagh Mixed National School Longford N Catholic 18 15 33 Colehill Mixed National School Longford N Catholic 61 60 121 Fermoyle Mixed National School Longford Y Catholic 46 61 107 Forgney N National School Longford N Catholic 4 15 19 Gaelscoil An Longfoirt Longford Y Catholic 98 87 185 Killasonna Mixed National School Longford N Catholic 19 26 45 Lanesborough Primary School Longford N Catholic 37 47 84 Naomh Dominic National School Longford N Catholic 86 82 168 Naomh Earnain National School Longford N Catholic 14 11 25 Naomh Guasachta National School Longford N Catholic 25 25 50 Naomh Padraig National School Longford N Catholic 23 26 49 S N An Leana Mor Longford Y Catholic 24 35 59 S N Cnoc An Mharcaigh Longford N Catholic 135 132 267 S N Mhuire Longford N Catholic 35 55 90 S N Naomh Colmcille Longford N Catholic 63 56 119 Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) S N Naomh Mhuire Longford N Catholic 50 50 100 Map 5 – Third-Level Education 2016 S N Naomh Treasa Longford Y Catholic 154 162 316 Saint Mels Longford N Catholic 107 122 229 Samhthann National School Longford N Catholic 73 81 154 Scoil Bhríde Longford N Catholic 14 17 31 Scoil Mhuire Longford N Catholic 39 43 82 Scoil Mhuire National School Longford N Catholic 199 175 374 Scoil Naomh Micheal Longford Y Catholic 0 191 191 St Bernard’s Mixed National School Longford N Catholic 16 18 34 St Columbas Mxd National School Longford N Catholic 21 14 35 St Emer's National School Longford Y Catholic 97 115 212 St Joseph’s Convent Longford Y Catholic 352 156 508 St Marys Mixed National School Longford Y Catholic 119 103 222 St Marys N.S. Longford Y Catholic 156 203 359 St Matthews Mixed National School Longford Y Catholic 154 189 343 St Patricks Longford N Catholic 47 38 85 St Patricks National School, Longford Longford N Catholic 61 77 138 St. John's National School Longford N Church of Ireland 12 13 25 St. Johns National School Longford N Church of Ireland 25 28 53 Stonepark National School Longford N Catholic 117 117 234 Tashinny National School Longford N Church of Ireland 15 14 29 The Sacred Heart Primary National School Longford Y Catholic 76 81 157

Source: Department of Education and Skills Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017)

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Table 14 – Special School 2017 /continued

Roll Number DEIS Designation School Location Official Name County DEIS Ethos Description Total Girls Total Boys Total Pupils 20128O Rural St Matthews Mixed N.S Ballymahon St Christopher’s Special School Longford N Catholic 11 21 32 05115S Rural S N An Leana Mor An Leana Mor Source: Department of Education and Skills 16665S Rural St Marys Mixed N S Drumlish Table 15 – Post-Primary Schools 2017 19279F Rural S N Naomh Treasa Clontumpher, Ballinalee 13320P Rural Fermoyle Mixed N S Fermoyle, Lanesboro Official School Address 1 County DEIS Pupil Ethos/Religion Total Girls Total Boys Total Name (Y/N) Attendance Pupils 20124G Rural St Marys N.S Edgeworthstown Type Source: Department of Education and Skills Mercy Secondary Ballymahon Longford N Day Catholic 333 311 644 School Table 17 – DEIS Post Primary Schools Cnoc Mhuire Granard Longford N Day Catholic 233 224 457 Roll Number School Location St. Mel's College Longford Longford N Day Catholic 509 509 71690F Ballymahon Vocational School Ballymahon Meán Scoil Muire Convent Road Longford N Day Catholic 505 505 71710I Ardscoil Phadraig Granard Ballymahon Ballymahon Longford Y Day Inter 155 243 398 Vocational School Denominational 71720L Lanesboro Community College Lanesboro Ardscoil Phadraig Granard Longford Y Day Inter 109 143 252 71730O Templemichael College Templemichael Denominational Source: Department of Education and Skills Lanesboro Lanesboro Longford Y Day Inter 79 99 178 Community College Denominational Templemichael Templemichael Longford Y Day Inter 102 162 264 College Denominational Z1.4 Housing Structure Moyne Community Moyne Longford N Day Inter 323 314 637 School Denominational Z1.4.1 Households 1,273 961 2,234

Source: Department of Education and Skills In 2016 the CSO Census of Population confirmed that there were 15,122 households comprised of 40,775 persons in County Longford. DEIS Status Schools Z1.4.2 Local Authority Rented Housing Delivering Equality of Opportunity Schools (DEIS) the Action Plan for Educational Inclusion is the Department of Education and Skills policy instrument to address A 1.9% decrease in the national population (from 9.8% to 7.9%) living in local educational disadvantage. The action plan focuses on addressing and prioritising the authority rented housing at national level was recorded over the 20 years to 2011. In educational needs of children and young people from disadvantaged communities, 2016, 8.3% (393,198 persons) of the national population was living in local authority from pre-school through second-level education (3 to 18 years). rented housing. The table below identifies the County Longford EDs with the highest Where the level of disadvantage is greatest, primary schools are classified as proportion (above 20%) of population living in local authority rented housing in 2016. participating in Primary Urban Band 1 of DEIS. The remaining participating primary schools are classified as participating in Band 2 of DEIS. Table 16 – DEIS Primary Schools

Roll Number DEIS Designation School Location 00856M Urban Band 1 Scoil Naomh Micheal Longford 18178R Urban Band 1 St Josephs Convent Longford 20101R Urban Band 1 The Sacred Heart Primary N.S. Granard 20083S Urban Band 1 Gaelscoil An Longfoirt Fearann Uí Dhuagáin 19753H Urban Band 1 St Emer's National School St Emer’s, Templemichael

/continued

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Table 14 – Special School 2017 /continued

Roll Number DEIS Designation School Location Official Name County DEIS Ethos Description Total Girls Total Boys Total Pupils 20128O Rural St Matthews Mixed N.S Ballymahon St Christopher’s Special School Longford N Catholic 11 21 32 05115S Rural S N An Leana Mor An Leana Mor Source: Department of Education and Skills 16665S Rural St Marys Mixed N S Drumlish Table 15 – Post-Primary Schools 2017 19279F Rural S N Naomh Treasa Clontumpher, Ballinalee 13320P Rural Fermoyle Mixed N S Fermoyle, Lanesboro Official School Address 1 County DEIS Pupil Ethos/Religion Total Girls Total Boys Total Name (Y/N) Attendance Pupils 20124G Rural St Marys N.S Edgeworthstown Type Source: Department of Education and Skills Mercy Secondary Ballymahon Longford N Day Catholic 333 311 644 School Table 17 – DEIS Post Primary Schools Cnoc Mhuire Granard Longford N Day Catholic 233 224 457 Roll Number School Location St. Mel's College Longford Longford N Day Catholic 509 509 71690F Ballymahon Vocational School Ballymahon Meán Scoil Muire Convent Road Longford N Day Catholic 505 505 71710I Ardscoil Phadraig Granard Ballymahon Ballymahon Longford Y Day Inter 155 243 398 Vocational School Denominational 71720L Lanesboro Community College Lanesboro Ardscoil Phadraig Granard Longford Y Day Inter 109 143 252 71730O Templemichael College Templemichael Denominational Source: Department of Education and Skills Lanesboro Lanesboro Longford Y Day Inter 79 99 178 Community College Denominational Templemichael Templemichael Longford Y Day Inter 102 162 264 College Denominational Z1.4 Housing Structure Moyne Community Moyne Longford N Day Inter 323 314 637 School Denominational Z1.4.1 Households 1,273 961 2,234

Source: Department of Education and Skills In 2016 the CSO Census of Population confirmed that there were 15,122 households comprised of 40,775 persons in County Longford. DEIS Status Schools Z1.4.2 Local Authority Rented Housing Delivering Equality of Opportunity Schools (DEIS) the Action Plan for Educational Inclusion is the Department of Education and Skills policy instrument to address A 1.9% decrease in the national population (from 9.8% to 7.9%) living in local educational disadvantage. The action plan focuses on addressing and prioritising the authority rented housing at national level was recorded over the 20 years to 2011. In educational needs of children and young people from disadvantaged communities, 2016, 8.3% (393,198 persons) of the national population was living in local authority from pre-school through second-level education (3 to 18 years). rented housing. The table below identifies the County Longford EDs with the highest Where the level of disadvantage is greatest, primary schools are classified as proportion (above 20%) of population living in local authority rented housing in 2016. participating in Primary Urban Band 1 of DEIS. The remaining participating primary schools are classified as participating in Band 2 of DEIS. Table 16 – DEIS Primary Schools

Roll Number DEIS Designation School Location 00856M Urban Band 1 Scoil Naomh Micheal Longford 18178R Urban Band 1 St Josephs Convent Longford 20101R Urban Band 1 The Sacred Heart Primary N.S. Granard 20083S Urban Band 1 Gaelscoil An Longfoirt Fearann Uí Dhuagáin 19753H Urban Band 1 St Emer's National School St Emer’s, Templemichael

/continued

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Figure 12 – Highest Rate Local Authority Renting 2016 Z1.4.3 Homelessness

Table 18 – Homelessness by Region 2016

Male Female Total Midland Persons 50 44 94 State Persons 4,018 2,888 6,906

Midland Percentage 53.19 46.81 100.00 State Percentage 58.18 41.82 100.00

Source: CSO StatBank / Profile 5 - Homeless Persons in Ireland / E5002

Z1.5 Affluence and Disadvantage

Z1.5.1 Spatial Disadvantage Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Map 6 – LA Rented Accommodation by ED 2016 The Pobal Haase Pratschke Deprivation Index comprises successive deprivation indices based on the Census of Population, 1991-2016. The HP Index rates small areas as either extremely affluent, very affluent, affluent, marginally above average, marginally below average, disadvantaged, very disadvantaged and extremely disadvantaged. Table 19 - HP Index Classification

Score Level of Disadvantage 20 to 30 Very Affluent Medium 10 to 20 Affluent Medium 0 to 10 Marginally Above Average 0 to -10 Marginally Below Average ‐ 10 to - 20 Disadvantaged ‐ 20 to - 30 Very Disadvantaged Below ‐ 30 Extremely Disadvantaged

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Table 20 – County Longford Most Disadvantaged EDs 2016

ED Name Total Population 2016 Deprivation Score 2016 Classification Longford No. 1 Urban 3,592 -15.82 Disadvantaged Foxhall 528 -12.53 Disadvantaged Lislea 145 -12.39 Disadvantaged Granard Urban 1,096 -11.27 Disadvantaged Killoe 274 -10.49 Disadvantaged Longford Rural 5,704 -9.97 Marginally Below Average Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Meathas Truim 2,335 -9.75 Marginally Below Average Dalystown 196 -8.39 Marginally Below Average Ballinamuck West 437 -8.29 Marginally Below Average Abbeylara 298 -8.24 Marginally Below Average Newtown Forbes 897 -8.1 Marginally Below Average Sonnagh 245 -7.93 Marginally Below Average

/continued

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Figure 12 – Highest Rate Local Authority Renting 2016 Z1.4.3 Homelessness

Table 18 – Homelessness by Region 2016

Male Female Total Midland Persons 50 44 94 State Persons 4,018 2,888 6,906

Midland Percentage 53.19 46.81 100.00 State Percentage 58.18 41.82 100.00

Source: CSO StatBank / Profile 5 - Homeless Persons in Ireland / E5002

Z1.5 Affluence and Disadvantage

Z1.5.1 Spatial Disadvantage Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Map 6 – LA Rented Accommodation by ED 2016 The Pobal Haase Pratschke Deprivation Index comprises successive deprivation indices based on the Census of Population, 1991-2016. The HP Index rates small areas as either extremely affluent, very affluent, affluent, marginally above average, marginally below average, disadvantaged, very disadvantaged and extremely disadvantaged. Table 19 - HP Index Classification

Score Level of Disadvantage 20 to 30 Very Affluent Medium 10 to 20 Affluent Medium 0 to 10 Marginally Above Average 0 to -10 Marginally Below Average ‐ 10 to - 20 Disadvantaged ‐ 20 to - 30 Very Disadvantaged Below ‐ 30 Extremely Disadvantaged

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Table 20 – County Longford Most Disadvantaged EDs 2016

ED Name Total Population 2016 Deprivation Score 2016 Classification Longford No. 1 Urban 3,592 -15.82 Disadvantaged Foxhall 528 -12.53 Disadvantaged Lislea 145 -12.39 Disadvantaged Granard Urban 1,096 -11.27 Disadvantaged Killoe 274 -10.49 Disadvantaged Longford Rural 5,704 -9.97 Marginally Below Average Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Meathas Truim 2,335 -9.75 Marginally Below Average Dalystown 196 -8.39 Marginally Below Average Ballinamuck West 437 -8.29 Marginally Below Average Abbeylara 298 -8.24 Marginally Below Average Newtown Forbes 897 -8.1 Marginally Below Average Sonnagh 245 -7.93 Marginally Below Average

/continued

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/continued Table 21 - County Longford Most Affluent EDs 2016 ED Name Total Population 2016 Deprivation Score 2016 Classification ED Name Total Population 2016 Deprivation Score 2016 Classification Drummeel 116 -7.83 Marginally Below Average Cashel East 302 -6.79 Marginally Below Average Longford No. 2 Urban 1,029 3.83 Marginally Above Average Ledwithstown 363 -6.72 Marginally Below Average Mountdavis 252 3.38 Marginally Above Average Aghaboy 681 -6.52 Marginally Below Average Caldragh 2,172 2.87 Marginally Above Average Granard Rural 301 -6.11 Marginally Below Average Cashel West 589 1.36 Marginally Above Average Columbkille 592 -5.89 Marginally Below Average Forgney 491 0.77 Marginally Above Average Drumgort 422 -5.77 Marginally Below Average Crosagstown 247 0.50 Marginally Above Average Firry/Newgrove 196 -5.73 Marginally Below Average Milltown 344 -5.42 Marginally Below Average Coolamber 382 0.40 Marginally Above Average Ballymuigh 250 -5.17 Marginally Below Average Moydow 730 0.19 Marginally Above Average Ballymahon 2,674 -5.11 Marginally Below Average Ardagh West 450 0.18 Marginally Above Average Mullanalaghta 298 -4.98 Marginally Below Average

Breanrisk 839 -4.97 Marginally Below Average Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Kilcommock 1,062 -4.91 Marginally Below Average Map 7 – Affluence and Deprivation by ED 2016 Currygrane 139 -4.89 Marginally Below Average Drumlish 1,475 -4.82 Marginally Below Average Kilglass 709 -4.73 Marginally Below Average Killashee 437 -4.65 Marginally Below Average Bunlahy 195 -4.53 Marginally Below Average Ballinalee 625 -4.41 Marginally Below Average Moatfarrell 217 -4.38 Marginally Below Average Corboy 388 -4.38 Marginally Below Average Rathcline 1,443 -4.03 Marginally Below Average Ballinamuck East 599 -3.94 Marginally Below Average Creevy 308 -3.83 Marginally Below Average Agharra 444 -3.66 Marginally Below Average Cloondara 687 -2.71 Marginally Below Average Knockanbaun 169 -2.5 Marginally Below Average Doory 424 -1.7 Marginally Below Average Gelshagh 351 -1.43 Marginally Below Average Moyne 326 -1.38 Marginally Below Average Cloonee 738 -0.47 Marginally Below Average Ardagh East 670 -0.15 Marginally Below Average

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) From the above it can be seen that there were no EDs in County Longford in 2016 that were classified as either Extremely Disadvantaged or Very Disadvantaged. A total of 5,635 persons were living in EDs that were classified as Disadvantaged in 2016.

All of the remaining EDs in County Longford in 2016 were classified as Marginally Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Above Average, with none being either Affluent or Very Affluent. Z1.6 Ethnicity

Table 22 – Population by Nationality 2016

Ireland - UK - Nationality Poland - Lithuania - Other EU28 - Rest of world - Not stated - Nationality Nationality Nationality Nationality Nationality Nationality Populati 34,000 1,155 1,903 540 1,483 917 657 on Percenta 83.63 2.84 4.68 1.33 3.65 2.26 1.62 ge

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

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/continued Table 21 - County Longford Most Affluent EDs 2016 ED Name Total Population 2016 Deprivation Score 2016 Classification ED Name Total Population 2016 Deprivation Score 2016 Classification Drummeel 116 -7.83 Marginally Below Average Cashel East 302 -6.79 Marginally Below Average Longford No. 2 Urban 1,029 3.83 Marginally Above Average Ledwithstown 363 -6.72 Marginally Below Average Mountdavis 252 3.38 Marginally Above Average Aghaboy 681 -6.52 Marginally Below Average Caldragh 2,172 2.87 Marginally Above Average Granard Rural 301 -6.11 Marginally Below Average Cashel West 589 1.36 Marginally Above Average Columbkille 592 -5.89 Marginally Below Average Forgney 491 0.77 Marginally Above Average Drumgort 422 -5.77 Marginally Below Average Crosagstown 247 0.50 Marginally Above Average Firry/Newgrove 196 -5.73 Marginally Below Average Milltown 344 -5.42 Marginally Below Average Coolamber 382 0.40 Marginally Above Average Ballymuigh 250 -5.17 Marginally Below Average Moydow 730 0.19 Marginally Above Average Ballymahon 2,674 -5.11 Marginally Below Average Ardagh West 450 0.18 Marginally Above Average Mullanalaghta 298 -4.98 Marginally Below Average

Breanrisk 839 -4.97 Marginally Below Average Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Kilcommock 1,062 -4.91 Marginally Below Average Map 7 – Affluence and Deprivation by ED 2016 Currygrane 139 -4.89 Marginally Below Average Drumlish 1,475 -4.82 Marginally Below Average Kilglass 709 -4.73 Marginally Below Average Killashee 437 -4.65 Marginally Below Average Bunlahy 195 -4.53 Marginally Below Average Ballinalee 625 -4.41 Marginally Below Average Moatfarrell 217 -4.38 Marginally Below Average Corboy 388 -4.38 Marginally Below Average Rathcline 1,443 -4.03 Marginally Below Average Ballinamuck East 599 -3.94 Marginally Below Average Creevy 308 -3.83 Marginally Below Average Agharra 444 -3.66 Marginally Below Average Cloondara 687 -2.71 Marginally Below Average Knockanbaun 169 -2.5 Marginally Below Average Doory 424 -1.7 Marginally Below Average Gelshagh 351 -1.43 Marginally Below Average Moyne 326 -1.38 Marginally Below Average Cloonee 738 -0.47 Marginally Below Average Ardagh East 670 -0.15 Marginally Below Average

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) From the above it can be seen that there were no EDs in County Longford in 2016 that were classified as either Extremely Disadvantaged or Very Disadvantaged. A total of 5,635 persons were living in EDs that were classified as Disadvantaged in 2016.

All of the remaining EDs in County Longford in 2016 were classified as Marginally Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) Above Average, with none being either Affluent or Very Affluent. Z1.6 Ethnicity

Table 22 – Population by Nationality 2016

Ireland - UK - Nationality Poland - Lithuania - Other EU28 - Rest of world - Not stated - Nationality Nationality Nationality Nationality Nationality Nationality Populati 34,000 1,155 1,903 540 1,483 917 657 on Percenta 83.63 2.84 4.68 1.33 3.65 2.26 1.62 ge

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

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County Longford had a relatively high proportion of White Irish Traveller population (2.5%) and Other White population (11.8%) in 2016. Z1.7 Demographic Aging Figure 13 – County Longford Ethnicity 2016 Due to a number of factors, including better health care, Ireland’s population is increasingly ageing. In 2016, 13.4% of the State population were aged 65 and older. In County Longford there were 5,824 persons over the age of 65 years resident in the county in 2016, equating to 14.25% of the total population, being higher the State. Map 9 – Age Dependency

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

Map 8 – White Irish Traveller Population

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017)

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County Longford had a relatively high proportion of White Irish Traveller population (2.5%) and Other White population (11.8%) in 2016. Z1.7 Demographic Aging Figure 13 – County Longford Ethnicity 2016 Due to a number of factors, including better health care, Ireland’s population is increasingly ageing. In 2016, 13.4% of the State population were aged 65 and older. In County Longford there were 5,824 persons over the age of 65 years resident in the county in 2016, equating to 14.25% of the total population, being higher the State. Map 9 – Age Dependency

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

Map 8 – White Irish Traveller Population

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017)

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Z1.8 Single Parent Families Z1.9 Labour Market

The CSO Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC) 2016 confirms that lone Z1.9.1 Unemployment Rate parents are more likely than any other social group to be living in poverty. Table 23 – Lone Parent Poverty Rate (Children Under 18) Co Longford had a rate of unemployment that was some 2% above the State in 2016, together with a 1.35% higher rate of the population aged 15 and over who were Base Year 2012 Indicator 2016 unable to work due to permanent sickness or disability. Median Real Household Disposable Income €22,845 Map 11 – County Longford Male Unemployment Rate by ED 2016 Mean Real Household Disposable Income €25,353 Median Nominal Household Disposable Income €23,090 Mean Nominal Household Disposable Income €25,625 Median Equivalised Real Disposable Income €13,693 Mean Equivalised Real Disposable Income €14,648 Median Equivalised Nominal Disposable Income €13,840 Mean Equivalised Nominal Disposable Income €14,805 At Risk of Poverty Rate 40.2% Deprivation Rate6 50.1% Consistent Poverty Rate 24.6%

Source: CSO StatBank / Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC) / SIA16 / Select from table SIA16 There were 2,010 one parent family households with children of all ages in County Longford in 2016. Of these, 86% comprised of lone mothers and 14% of lone fathers. Map 10 – Lone Parent Rate by ED 2016

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017)

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017)

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Z1.8 Single Parent Families Z1.9 Labour Market

The CSO Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC) 2016 confirms that lone Z1.9.1 Unemployment Rate parents are more likely than any other social group to be living in poverty. Table 23 – Lone Parent Poverty Rate (Children Under 18) Co Longford had a rate of unemployment that was some 2% above the State in 2016, together with a 1.35% higher rate of the population aged 15 and over who were Base Year 2012 Indicator 2016 unable to work due to permanent sickness or disability. Median Real Household Disposable Income €22,845 Map 11 – County Longford Male Unemployment Rate by ED 2016 Mean Real Household Disposable Income €25,353 Median Nominal Household Disposable Income €23,090 Mean Nominal Household Disposable Income €25,625 Median Equivalised Real Disposable Income €13,693 Mean Equivalised Real Disposable Income €14,648 Median Equivalised Nominal Disposable Income €13,840 Mean Equivalised Nominal Disposable Income €14,805 At Risk of Poverty Rate 40.2% Deprivation Rate6 50.1% Consistent Poverty Rate 24.6%

Source: CSO StatBank / Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC) / SIA16 / Select from table SIA16 There were 2,010 one parent family households with children of all ages in County Longford in 2016. Of these, 86% comprised of lone mothers and 14% of lone fathers. Map 10 – Lone Parent Rate by ED 2016

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017)

Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017)

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Map 12 - County Longford Female Unemployment Rate by ED 2016 Z2 County Health Profile

Z2.1 Key Facts

The following has been extracted from HSE County Longford Health Profile 2015 Longford is the 4th most deprived local authority area nationally, with 88% of its population either below average affluence or disadvantaged; Longford has a high percentage of those with no formal or primary education only of 19.3% (national average 15.2%), unemployment of 24.7% (national 19.0%), households that are local authority rented of 13.6% (national average 7.8%); The Traveller population of County Longford at 1.9% is above the national rate of 0.7%; The birth rate to females under 20 years of age of 17.1 is above the national average of 12.3; Cancer incidence is either average or below average for all cancers and the main causes of cancer except for male prostate cancer, which is above the national average;

Mortality rates for all deaths and the main causes of death are average or below the Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) national average except for respiratory deaths, which was the highest nationally in 2012.

Z2.2 General Health

The CSO Census of Population 2016 provides an assessment of the general health of the population. The figure below provides the self-recorded health assessment of the County Longford population by comparison with that of the State. Figure 14 – General Health 2016

State 2016 County Longford 2016

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016 The number of people with a disability increased by 47,796 between 2011 and 2016 and stood at 643,131 in April 2016, accounting for 13.5% of the population. There

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Map 12 - County Longford Female Unemployment Rate by ED 2016 Z2 County Health Profile

Z2.1 Key Facts

The following has been extracted from HSE County Longford Health Profile 2015 Longford is the 4th most deprived local authority area nationally, with 88% of its population either below average affluence or disadvantaged; Longford has a high percentage of those with no formal or primary education only of 19.3% (national average 15.2%), unemployment of 24.7% (national 19.0%), households that are local authority rented of 13.6% (national average 7.8%); The Traveller population of County Longford at 1.9% is above the national rate of 0.7%; The birth rate to females under 20 years of age of 17.1 is above the national average of 12.3; Cancer incidence is either average or below average for all cancers and the main causes of cancer except for male prostate cancer, which is above the national average;

Mortality rates for all deaths and the main causes of death are average or below the Source: Pobal HP Deprivation Index 2016 - Haase, T. and Pratschke, J. (2017) national average except for respiratory deaths, which was the highest nationally in 2012.

Z2.2 General Health

The CSO Census of Population 2016 provides an assessment of the general health of the population. The figure below provides the self-recorded health assessment of the County Longford population by comparison with that of the State. Figure 14 – General Health 2016

State 2016 County Longford 2016

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016 The number of people with a disability increased by 47,796 between 2011 and 2016 and stood at 643,131 in April 2016, accounting for 13.5% of the population. There

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were 331,551 females (51.6%) and 311,580 males (48.4%) with a disability. Among Table 25 – Persons With Disability By Age 2016

those aged under 20, there was an increase of 11,828 persons (15.6%) with a County Longford State disability since 2011. This represented a disability rate of 6.7% in this group (up from Age Band Population 2016 Population with a Disability Population with a Disability Population with a Disability as % 6% in 2011). 2016 as % of relevant age group of relevant age group (%) (%) The CSO reports that up to one in ten persons below 45 years of age had a disability 0 - 4 years 3,051 79 2.6 3.0 in 2016, rising to 20% by age 60. Rates increased sharply above age 70; 27.7% of 5 - 9 years 3,386 193 5.7 6.4 females aged 70-74 had a disability while the rate had increased to 73.3% for females 10 - 14 years 3,071 238 7.7 8.3 aged 84 and over. 15 - 19 years 2,603 244 9.4 9.4 Disability was more common amongst males in all age categories up to age 24, 20 - 24 years 1,954 184 9.4 9.1 peaking in the 5-9 age groups where there were almost twice as many disabled boys 25 - 29 years 2,225 196 8.8 8.0 (14,964) as girls (7,887). 30 - 34 years 2,784 255 9.2 8.0 35 - 39 years 3,197 310 9.7 8.7 Educational attainment amongst disabled persons was much lower than that of the 40 - 44 years 2,906 333 11.5 10.3 general population at all levels. Amongst those aged 15 to 50 (inclusive), 13.7% had 45 - 49 years 2,799 395 14.1 12.1 completed no higher than primary level education, compared with 4.2% of the general 50 - 54 years 2,485 424 17.1 14.6 population; 37.0% had completed third level education compared with 53.4% of all 55 - 59 years 2,383 480 20.1 17.8 those aged 15-50. 60 - 64 years 2,205 492 22.3 21.4 There were 176,445 persons with a disability in the labour force, giving a labour force 65 - 69 years 1,990 498 25.0 23.3 participation rate of 30.2% compared with 61.4% for the population overall. Of those 70 - 74 years 1,513 441 29.1 27.5 with a disability aged 15 and over in April 2016 (584,045 people), just 22.3% 75 - 79 years 972 349 35.9 37.0 (130,067) were at work, compared with 53.4% of the overall population in that age 80 - 84 years 754 386 51.2 50.2 85 years and 595 419 70.4 70.0 group. Overall in April 2016, 6.5% of those at work had a disability. over

Source: CSO StatBank / Summary Results Part 2 / EZ042 Z2.3 Disability In 2016, the unemployment rate amongst persons with a disability was 26.3% in the In 2016 there were 5,916 persons with a disability in County Longford, which means State, more than double the 12.9% rate for the population as a whole. the proportion of disabled persons in the county (14.5%) is one percentage point Figure 15 – Comparative Disability by Age 2016 higher than the national figure (13.5%). Table 24 – Persons with a Disability 2011-2016

State Males Females Total Total persons 2011 (Number) 2,272,699 2,315,553 4,588,252 Total persons 2016 (Number) 2,354,428 2,407,437 4,761,865 Persons with a disability 2011 (Number) 289,728 305,607 9,350,117 Persons with a disability 2016 (Number) 311,580 331,551 643,131 Persons with a disability as a % of total persons (%) 13.2 13.8 13.5 Actual change in persons with a disability since previous census (Number) 21852 25944 47,796 Percentage change in persons with a disability since previous census (%) 7.5 8.5 9.2 County Longford Total persons 2011 (Number) 19,649 19,351 39,000 Total persons 2016 (Number) 20,587 20,286 40,873 Persons with a disability 2011 (Number) 2,616 2,788 5,404 Persons with a disability 2016 (Number) 2,922 2,994 5,916 Persons with a disability as a % of total persons (%) 2016 14.19 14.76 14.47 Actual change in persons with a disability since previous census (Number) 306 206 512 Percentage change in persons with a disability since previous census (%) 10.47 6.88 8.65

Source: StatBank / Profile 9 - Health, Disability and Carers / E9003

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

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115011(3) Turner PG.indd 80 18/10/2018 15:59 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 were 331,551 females (51.6%) and 311,580 males (48.4%) with a disability. Among Table 25 – Persons With Disability By Age 2016 those aged under 20, there was an increase of 11,828 persons (15.6%) with a County Longford State disability since 2011. This represented a disability rate of 6.7% in this group (up from Age Band Population 2016 Population with a Disability Population with a Disability Population with a Disability as % 6% in 2011). 2016 as % of relevant age group of relevant age group (%) (%) The CSO reports that up to one in ten persons below 45 years of age had a disability 0 - 4 years 3,051 79 2.6 3.0 in 2016, rising to 20% by age 60. Rates increased sharply above age 70; 27.7% of 5 - 9 years 3,386 193 5.7 6.4 females aged 70-74 had a disability while the rate had increased to 73.3% for females 10 - 14 years 3,071 238 7.7 8.3 aged 84 and over. 15 - 19 years 2,603 244 9.4 9.4 Disability was more common amongst males in all age categories up to age 24, 20 - 24 years 1,954 184 9.4 9.1 peaking in the 5-9 age groups where there were almost twice as many disabled boys 25 - 29 years 2,225 196 8.8 8.0 (14,964) as girls (7,887). 30 - 34 years 2,784 255 9.2 8.0 35 - 39 years 3,197 310 9.7 8.7 Educational attainment amongst disabled persons was much lower than that of the 40 - 44 years 2,906 333 11.5 10.3 general population at all levels. Amongst those aged 15 to 50 (inclusive), 13.7% had 45 - 49 years 2,799 395 14.1 12.1 completed no higher than primary level education, compared with 4.2% of the general 50 - 54 years 2,485 424 17.1 14.6 population; 37.0% had completed third level education compared with 53.4% of all 55 - 59 years 2,383 480 20.1 17.8 those aged 15-50. 60 - 64 years 2,205 492 22.3 21.4 There were 176,445 persons with a disability in the labour force, giving a labour force 65 - 69 years 1,990 498 25.0 23.3 participation rate of 30.2% compared with 61.4% for the population overall. Of those 70 - 74 years 1,513 441 29.1 27.5 with a disability aged 15 and over in April 2016 (584,045 people), just 22.3% 75 - 79 years 972 349 35.9 37.0 (130,067) were at work, compared with 53.4% of the overall population in that age 80 - 84 years 754 386 51.2 50.2 85 years and 595 419 70.4 70.0 group. Overall in April 2016, 6.5% of those at work had a disability. over

Source: CSO StatBank / Summary Results Part 2 / EZ042 Z2.3 Disability In 2016, the unemployment rate amongst persons with a disability was 26.3% in the In 2016 there were 5,916 persons with a disability in County Longford, which means State, more than double the 12.9% rate for the population as a whole. the proportion of disabled persons in the county (14.5%) is one percentage point Figure 15 – Comparative Disability by Age 2016 higher than the national figure (13.5%). Table 24 – Persons with a Disability 2011-2016

State Males Females Total Total persons 2011 (Number) 2,272,699 2,315,553 4,588,252 Total persons 2016 (Number) 2,354,428 2,407,437 4,761,865 Persons with a disability 2011 (Number) 289,728 305,607 9,350,117 Persons with a disability 2016 (Number) 311,580 331,551 643,131 Persons with a disability as a % of total persons (%) 13.2 13.8 13.5 Actual change in persons with a disability since previous census (Number) 21852 25944 47,796 Percentage change in persons with a disability since previous census (%) 7.5 8.5 9.2 County Longford Total persons 2011 (Number) 19,649 19,351 39,000 Total persons 2016 (Number) 20,587 20,286 40,873 Persons with a disability 2011 (Number) 2,616 2,788 5,404 Persons with a disability 2016 (Number) 2,922 2,994 5,916 Persons with a disability as a % of total persons (%) 2016 14.19 14.76 14.47 Actual change in persons with a disability since previous census (Number) 306 206 512 Percentage change in persons with a disability since previous census (%) 10.47 6.88 8.65

Source: StatBank / Profile 9 - Health, Disability and Carers / E9003

Source: CSO Census of Population 2016

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Z2.3.1 Disability by Classification

Table 26 – Disability by Classification 2016 Z2.4 Births and Deaths 2015

County Longford 2016 Male Female The following has been extracted from the NPRS. Total persons 20,587 20,286 Table 28 – Births 2015: Mothers County of Residence Total persons with a disability 2,922 2,994 Mothers County of Residence Number National % Blindness or a serious vision impairment 262 271 County Longford 591 0.9 Deafness or a serious hearing impairment 508 446 A condition that substantially limits one or more basic physical activities 1,142 1,442 Source: NPRS: Perinatal Statistics Report 2015 An intellectual disability 372 232 Figure 16 – County Longford Birth-Rate Trends 2006-2016 Difficulty in learning, remembering or concentrating 782 618 Psychological or emotional condition 526 593 Other disability, including chronic illness 1,248 1,435 Difficulty in dressing, bathing or getting around inside the home 620 779 Difficulty in going outside home alone 771 1,035 Difficulty in working or attending school/college 1,020 966 Difficulty in participating in other activities 988 1,136 Total disabilities 8,239 8,953

Source: CSO StatBank / Profile 9 - Health, Disability and Carers / E9003

Z2.3.2 Intellectual Disability

The 2016 Annual Report of the Health Research Board - National Intellectual Disability Database (NIDD) Committee – provides a national record of the number of people registered on the NIDD with an intellectual disability. Table 27 – NIDD Registrations per 1,000 of Population Source: CSO StatBank / Births Occurrence / VSA16 2016 Total population NIDD Prevalence rate % of NIDD (28,275) Figure 17 – County Longford Mothers Age Trends 2006-2016 County Longford 39,000 227 5.8 0.8

Source: National Intellectual Disability Database

Source: CSO StatBank / Births Occurrence / VSA16

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Z2.3.1 Disability by Classification

Table 26 – Disability by Classification 2016 Z2.4 Births and Deaths 2015

County Longford 2016 Male Female The following has been extracted from the NPRS. Total persons 20,587 20,286 Table 28 – Births 2015: Mothers County of Residence Total persons with a disability 2,922 2,994 Mothers County of Residence Number National % Blindness or a serious vision impairment 262 271 County Longford 591 0.9 Deafness or a serious hearing impairment 508 446 A condition that substantially limits one or more basic physical activities 1,142 1,442 Source: NPRS: Perinatal Statistics Report 2015 An intellectual disability 372 232 Figure 16 – County Longford Birth-Rate Trends 2006-2016 Difficulty in learning, remembering or concentrating 782 618 Psychological or emotional condition 526 593 Other disability, including chronic illness 1,248 1,435 Difficulty in dressing, bathing or getting around inside the home 620 779 Difficulty in going outside home alone 771 1,035 Difficulty in working or attending school/college 1,020 966 Difficulty in participating in other activities 988 1,136 Total disabilities 8,239 8,953

Source: CSO StatBank / Profile 9 - Health, Disability and Carers / E9003

Z2.3.2 Intellectual Disability

The 2016 Annual Report of the Health Research Board - National Intellectual Disability Database (NIDD) Committee – provides a national record of the number of people registered on the NIDD with an intellectual disability. Table 27 – NIDD Registrations per 1,000 of Population Source: CSO StatBank / Births Occurrence / VSA16 2016 Total population NIDD Prevalence rate % of NIDD (28,275) Figure 17 – County Longford Mothers Age Trends 2006-2016 County Longford 39,000 227 5.8 0.8

Source: National Intellectual Disability Database

Source: CSO StatBank / Births Occurrence / VSA16

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The figure above shows that the average age of mothers in County Longford increased by 1.1 years over the period 2006-2016. Comparatively in the State over the same period the average age of mothers increased by 1.6 years. During the Table 30 – County Longford Carers 2011-2016 period the average age of first-time mothers in County Longford increased by 1.4 years compared to 2.1 years in the State. Male Female 2011 2016 2011 2016 Z2.4.1 Occurrences of Death All carers 673 747 1,015 1,013 1-14 hours unpaid help per week 276 327 365 364 Table 29 – County Longford Occurrences of Death 2014-2016 15-28 hours unpaid help per week 106 119 160 168 29-42 hours unpaid help per week 56 60 92 87 Occurrences of Death 2014 2015 2016 Accidents 9 8 9 43 or more hours unpaid help per week 128 126 262 246 External Causes of Death 15 12 14 Not stated - hours unpaid help per week 107 115 136 148 Intentional Self-Harm 4 4 5 Total Hours Unpaid Help per Week 20,436 19,506 40,568 39,673 Assault 0 0 0 Average Hours Unpaid Help per Week 36.1 30.9 46.2 45.9 Events of Undetermined Intent 2 0 0 Other External Causes 0 0 0 Source: CSO StatBank / Profile 9 - Health, Disability and Carers / E9049

Source: CSO StatBank / Deaths Occurrence / VSD24 / Select from table VSD24 The table above shows that in County Longford between 2011 and 2016 there was an increase in male carers of 10.9%, and of female carers of 18.5%. Z2.4.2 Self-Harm Rates

The term self-harm is used to describe the various methods by which people harm Z3 Key National Policies and Actions themselves. Research has shown that people who engage in self-harm are at a greater risk of dying by suicide than those who do not engage in self-harm. Data for Z3.1 National Physical Activity Plan for Ireland: Get Ireland Active! the National Self-Harm Registry Ireland is collected in real-time from hospital Table 31 – Key NPAP Actions Emergency Departments. Self-harm data is collated by the National Self-Harm Registry on a former Local Health Office two county basis with a break down by Ref Action Lead Partners Timeline gender. It is important to note that many people who self-harm never attend an 9 Extend the Active School Flag programme to DES DH, FIS, HSE, Ireland Active, LAs, LSPs, NGBs 2020 Emergency Department and therefore are not included in the following figures. In 500 further schools Ireland in 2016, the National Self-Harm Registry recorded 11,485 self-harm 14 Include physical activity in the development DCYA LAs, HSE, Gardaí, Tusla, Education and Training 2016 plans of Children and Young People’s Services Boards. presentations to hospital involving 8,909 individuals. Expressed as a rate per 100,000 Committees (CYPSC) the national rate of self-harm in 2016 was 184 males per 100,000 of population and 15 Review the National Play and National DCYA DECLG, DES, DH, DTTS, HSE, LAs, SI 2017 229 females per 100,000 of population. The rate was highest among young people, Recreation Policies and develop a new strategic direction for promoting physically active play. with the peak rate for women aged 15-19 years and for men aged between 20-24 32 Develop and promote walking and cycling LAs DECLG, GIW, LSPs, SI 2016 years. The rate per 100,000 of population for counties Longford and Westmeath in strategies in each Local Authority area. 2016 was below the national average as follows: 176 males per 100,000 of population 33 Ensure that the planning, development and LAs DECLG, DTTS, NTA 2017 and 221 females per 100,000 of population. design of towns and cities promotes cycling and walking with the aim of delivering a network of cycle routes and footpaths. 34 Ensure that the planning, development and LAs DECLG 2016 design of towns and cities promotes the development of local and regional parks and Z2.5 Carers recreational spaces that encourage physical activity. In the State in 2016 carers provided 6,608,515 hours of care per week, an average of 36 Prioritise the planning and development of DECLG LAs 2017 walking and cycling and general recreational 38.7 hours per carer. This was an increase of 321,005 hours (5.1%) on 2011. There /physical activity infrastructure. were 83,754 carers (42.9%) who provided up to two hours of unpaid care a day, which 41 Continue to support the Community Sport and SI HSE, Ireland Active, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, Schools 2016 made up 8.3% of the total care hours provided. There were also 16,926 carers (8.7%) Physical Activity Hubs in disadvantaged areas. who provided full-time 24 hours per seven-day week unpaid care, which represented 42 Include actions that promote increased levels of LCDCs, HSE, LSPs, Community Representatives 2016 physical activity in all Local Economic and LAs 43% of total care hours provided. Community Plans. 43 Rollout a new Active Communities Walking SI Age & Opportunity, Arthritis Ireland, GAA, HSE, IHF, 2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 83 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 84 22/08/2018

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The figure above shows that the average age of mothers in County Longford increased by 1.1 years over the period 2006-2016. Comparatively in the State over the same period the average age of mothers increased by 1.6 years. During the Table 30 – County Longford Carers 2011-2016 period the average age of first-time mothers in County Longford increased by 1.4 years compared to 2.1 years in the State. Male Female 2011 2016 2011 2016 Z2.4.1 Occurrences of Death All carers 673 747 1,015 1,013 1-14 hours unpaid help per week 276 327 365 364 Table 29 – County Longford Occurrences of Death 2014-2016 15-28 hours unpaid help per week 106 119 160 168 29-42 hours unpaid help per week 56 60 92 87 Occurrences of Death 2014 2015 2016 Accidents 9 8 9 43 or more hours unpaid help per week 128 126 262 246 External Causes of Death 15 12 14 Not stated - hours unpaid help per week 107 115 136 148 Intentional Self-Harm 4 4 5 Total Hours Unpaid Help per Week 20,436 19,506 40,568 39,673 Assault 0 0 0 Average Hours Unpaid Help per Week 36.1 30.9 46.2 45.9 Events of Undetermined Intent 2 0 0 Other External Causes 0 0 0 Source: CSO StatBank / Profile 9 - Health, Disability and Carers / E9049

Source: CSO StatBank / Deaths Occurrence / VSD24 / Select from table VSD24 The table above shows that in County Longford between 2011 and 2016 there was an increase in male carers of 10.9%, and of female carers of 18.5%. Z2.4.2 Self-Harm Rates

The term self-harm is used to describe the various methods by which people harm Z3 Key National Policies and Actions themselves. Research has shown that people who engage in self-harm are at a greater risk of dying by suicide than those who do not engage in self-harm. Data for Z3.1 National Physical Activity Plan for Ireland: Get Ireland Active! the National Self-Harm Registry Ireland is collected in real-time from hospital Table 31 – Key NPAP Actions Emergency Departments. Self-harm data is collated by the National Self-Harm Registry on a former Local Health Office two county basis with a break down by Ref Action Lead Partners Timeline gender. It is important to note that many people who self-harm never attend an 9 Extend the Active School Flag programme to DES DH, FIS, HSE, Ireland Active, LAs, LSPs, NGBs 2020 Emergency Department and therefore are not included in the following figures. In 500 further schools Ireland in 2016, the National Self-Harm Registry recorded 11,485 self-harm 14 Include physical activity in the development DCYA LAs, HSE, Gardaí, Tusla, Education and Training 2016 plans of Children and Young People’s Services Boards. presentations to hospital involving 8,909 individuals. Expressed as a rate per 100,000 Committees (CYPSC) the national rate of self-harm in 2016 was 184 males per 100,000 of population and 15 Review the National Play and National DCYA DECLG, DES, DH, DTTS, HSE, LAs, SI 2017 229 females per 100,000 of population. The rate was highest among young people, Recreation Policies and develop a new strategic direction for promoting physically active play. with the peak rate for women aged 15-19 years and for men aged between 20-24 32 Develop and promote walking and cycling LAs DECLG, GIW, LSPs, SI 2016 years. The rate per 100,000 of population for counties Longford and Westmeath in strategies in each Local Authority area. 2016 was below the national average as follows: 176 males per 100,000 of population 33 Ensure that the planning, development and LAs DECLG, DTTS, NTA 2017 and 221 females per 100,000 of population. design of towns and cities promotes cycling and walking with the aim of delivering a network of cycle routes and footpaths. 34 Ensure that the planning, development and LAs DECLG 2016 design of towns and cities promotes the development of local and regional parks and Z2.5 Carers recreational spaces that encourage physical activity. In the State in 2016 carers provided 6,608,515 hours of care per week, an average of 36 Prioritise the planning and development of DECLG LAs 2017 walking and cycling and general recreational 38.7 hours per carer. This was an increase of 321,005 hours (5.1%) on 2011. There /physical activity infrastructure. were 83,754 carers (42.9%) who provided up to two hours of unpaid care a day, which 41 Continue to support the Community Sport and SI HSE, Ireland Active, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, Schools 2016 made up 8.3% of the total care hours provided. There were also 16,926 carers (8.7%) Physical Activity Hubs in disadvantaged areas. who provided full-time 24 hours per seven-day week unpaid care, which represented 42 Include actions that promote increased levels of LCDCs, HSE, LSPs, Community Representatives 2016 physical activity in all Local Economic and LAs 43% of total care hours provided. Community Plans. 43 Rollout a new Active Communities Walking SI Age & Opportunity, Arthritis Ireland, GAA, HSE, IHF, 2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 83 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 84 22/08/2018

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Programme in all LSP areas and support over Ireland Active, LAs, LSPs, Mountaineering Ireland 500 new active community walking groups Z3.3 Tobacco Free Ireland around the country under the Get Ireland Walking initiative. The Tobacco Free Ireland Action Plan identifies ten recommendations at national 45 Develop a physical activity for health culture in SI Athletics Ireland, Cycling Ireland, DTTS, HSE, 2020 level:- Ireland through the development of new Get Ireland Active, LAs, LSPs, Swim Ireland Ireland Running, Get Ireland Cycling, Get Ireland Swimming initiatives.

46 Strengthen and enhance the capacity of the DTTS, FIS, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs Ongoing 1. General; LSPs to further develop locally led plans and SI 2. Protection of children and de-normalisation of tobacco use in Ireland; more long-term sustainable physical activity programmes. 3. Legislative compliance and regulating the retail environment; 47 Continue to support the work of the National DTTS, FIS, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs Ongoing Governing Bodies of sport in implementing SI 4. Monitor tobacco use and prevalence; programmes to promote physical activity. 5. Protect people from tobacco smoke; 48 Develop programmes to address transitions and SI DTTS, FIS, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs 2017 dropout from physical activity and sport. 6. Offer help to quit tobacco use; 50 Establish a systematic, regular and long-term DH, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2016 7. Warn about the dangers of tobacco; national surveillance system to monitor physical DTTS activity levels in each of the target groups, 8. Enforce bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship; including key performance Indicators aligned with Healthy Ireland. 9. Raise taxes on tobacco products; and 51 Establish a set of baseline figures on physical DH, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2016 10. National and International Partnerships. activity and sedentary levels for each of the DTTS target groups. 52 Establish a research programme to inform DH, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2016 Z3.4 Connecting for Life policies aimed at improving physical activity DTTS levels in each of the target groups. Table 33 - Key Connecting for Life Elements 53 Develop a national database for sharing DH HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2016 examples of quality evidence-based practice Ref Element Lead Key Milestone in 2017 Key Milestone in 2018 Key Milestone in 2019 and programmes. 1.1.5 Promoting physical DOH Ensure NPAP alignment in Key actions of National 54 Develop a standardised evaluation framework DH HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2019 activity as a protective HI other prevention and Physical Activity Plan advanced for publicly funded programmes designed to factor for mental health improvement strategies (Q.1- by subgroups. increase physical activity levels. through the National Q.4). Ongoing implementation of 55 Conduct research in to the economic costs of DH HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2020 Physical Activity Plan. Establish thematic sub-groups social marketing campaign inactivity in Ireland/benefits of investment in as needed to advance specific plan. physical activity as a preventative strategy. actions. Continued expansion of Active Continue to engage with local Schools Flag initiative. Source: Get Ireland Active: The National Physical Activity Plan for Ireland community leaders and develop Continued expansion of the skills and competencies of Community Sport & Physical local communities. Activity Hubs initiative. Z3.2 Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland Broaden the awareness of the Continued expansion of Get hubs to a wider community, Ireland Walking initiative Table 32 – Key Obesity Action Plan Elements aiming to improve integration of communities. Ongoing development of site Ref Action Lead Partners Timeline with better directory of available 2.1 Develop guidelines and support materials for DOH, County/City Councils, DECLG 2016-2025 locations and programmes. those working in developing the built environment HSE A new Get Ireland Walking for urban development and planning in relation to Strategy will be published for reducing the obesogenic environment. the period 2017 -2020 to set 2.2 Develop, implement and evaluate calorie posting DOH Public sector organisations 2016-2025 strategic objectives for the legislation. development and promotion of walking in Ireland. 9.2 Scale up effective community based programmes HSE Tusla, LCDC, DCYA, DSP 2016-2025 with a focus on disadvantaged areas to enhance knowledge and skills with regard to healthy eating and active living. Special emphasis should be placed on providing guidance, advice and training to parents on healthy food and healthy eating.

Source: Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland

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Programme in all LSP areas and support over Ireland Active, LAs, LSPs, Mountaineering Ireland 500 new active community walking groups Z3.3 Tobacco Free Ireland around the country under the Get Ireland Walking initiative. The Tobacco Free Ireland Action Plan identifies ten recommendations at national 45 Develop a physical activity for health culture in SI Athletics Ireland, Cycling Ireland, DTTS, HSE, 2020 level:- Ireland through the development of new Get Ireland Active, LAs, LSPs, Swim Ireland Ireland Running, Get Ireland Cycling, Get Ireland Swimming initiatives.

46 Strengthen and enhance the capacity of the DTTS, FIS, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs Ongoing 1. General; LSPs to further develop locally led plans and SI 2. Protection of children and de-normalisation of tobacco use in Ireland; more long-term sustainable physical activity programmes. 3. Legislative compliance and regulating the retail environment; 47 Continue to support the work of the National DTTS, FIS, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs Ongoing Governing Bodies of sport in implementing SI 4. Monitor tobacco use and prevalence; programmes to promote physical activity. 5. Protect people from tobacco smoke; 48 Develop programmes to address transitions and SI DTTS, FIS, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs 2017 dropout from physical activity and sport. 6. Offer help to quit tobacco use; 50 Establish a systematic, regular and long-term DH, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2016 7. Warn about the dangers of tobacco; national surveillance system to monitor physical DTTS activity levels in each of the target groups, 8. Enforce bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship; including key performance Indicators aligned with Healthy Ireland. 9. Raise taxes on tobacco products; and 51 Establish a set of baseline figures on physical DH, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2016 10. National and International Partnerships. activity and sedentary levels for each of the DTTS target groups. 52 Establish a research programme to inform DH, HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2016 Z3.4 Connecting for Life policies aimed at improving physical activity DTTS levels in each of the target groups. Table 33 - Key Connecting for Life Elements 53 Develop a national database for sharing DH HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2016 examples of quality evidence-based practice Ref Element Lead Key Milestone in 2017 Key Milestone in 2018 Key Milestone in 2019 and programmes. 1.1.5 Promoting physical DOH Ensure NPAP alignment in Key actions of National 54 Develop a standardised evaluation framework DH HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2019 activity as a protective HI other prevention and Physical Activity Plan advanced for publicly funded programmes designed to factor for mental health improvement strategies (Q.1- by subgroups. increase physical activity levels. through the National Q.4). Ongoing implementation of 55 Conduct research in to the economic costs of DH HSE, LAs, LSPs, NGBs, SI, Universities 2020 Physical Activity Plan. Establish thematic sub-groups social marketing campaign inactivity in Ireland/benefits of investment in as needed to advance specific plan. physical activity as a preventative strategy. actions. Continued expansion of Active Continue to engage with local Schools Flag initiative. Source: Get Ireland Active: The National Physical Activity Plan for Ireland community leaders and develop Continued expansion of the skills and competencies of Community Sport & Physical local communities. Activity Hubs initiative. Z3.2 Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland Broaden the awareness of the Continued expansion of Get hubs to a wider community, Ireland Walking initiative Table 32 – Key Obesity Action Plan Elements aiming to improve integration of communities. Ongoing development of site Ref Action Lead Partners Timeline with better directory of available 2.1 Develop guidelines and support materials for DOH, County/City Councils, DECLG 2016-2025 locations and programmes. those working in developing the built environment HSE A new Get Ireland Walking for urban development and planning in relation to Strategy will be published for reducing the obesogenic environment. the period 2017 -2020 to set 2.2 Develop, implement and evaluate calorie posting DOH Public sector organisations 2016-2025 strategic objectives for the legislation. development and promotion of walking in Ireland. 9.2 Scale up effective community based programmes HSE Tusla, LCDC, DCYA, DSP 2016-2025 with a focus on disadvantaged areas to enhance knowledge and skills with regard to healthy eating and active living. Special emphasis should be placed on providing guidance, advice and training to parents on healthy food and healthy eating.

Source: Obesity Policy and Action Plan: A Healthy Weight for Ireland

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Ref Element Lead Key Milestone in 2017 Key Milestone in 2018 Key Milestone in 2019 national standardised approach to the delivery of Stress Control 2.1.1 Implement consistent, HSE Local CfL Action Plans (75%) Local CfL Action Plans Assess level of implementation, to HSE staff and service users. multi-agency suicide MH completed and published (Q.3). completed and in identify outstanding priorities, 3.1.6 prevention plans to Guidance provided to ensure implementation phase with and address potential Continue the HSE Representation and input into Engage with priority groups Deliver on agreed commitments enhance communities’ alignment of national and local monitoring process in place to enablers/barriers. development of mental H&W the Youth Mental Health including the youth sector to in National Wellbeing and capacity to respond to implementation plans, as part of support progress reporting. Continued development of health promotion Pathfinder initiative and final seek input into the National Mental Health Promotion Plan suicidal behaviours, Quality Assurance Process Full integration of relevant monitoring and reporting programmes with and for report. Mental Health Promotion Plan. in conjunction with partners to emerging suicide clusters (Q.1-Q.4). national CfL lead actions. framework/ mechanisms as priority groups, including Delivery of mental health Deliver on key actions in the deliver with agreed priority and murder-suicide. The the Youth Sector. promotion capacity-building Healthy Ireland Men Plan 2017 groups. Framework for evaluating and required. plans with be the monitoring implementation training to those working with – 2021. Deliver on key actions in the responsibility of the HSE young people in conjunction Healthy Ireland Men Plan 2017 progress to be developed by Ongoing national delivery of Mental Health Division NOSP in collaboration with with Jigsaw (Q.1-Q.4). mental health promotion - and aligned with the HSE MHD/ROSPs (Q.1-Q.4). Delivery of Engage Training capacity building training to 2021. Community Health and further train-the-trainers as those working with young Implementation of Traveller Organisations structure Develop structures for implementation of CfL part of ongoing implementation people in conjunction with Mental Health Promotion (CHO), Local Economic & of Healthy Ireland Men-Action Jigsaw. Programme. Community Plans and recommendations in mental health services across all CHOs Plan (Q.4). Development of Traveller Children &Young Development of ‘Sheds for Life’ Mental Health Promotion People’s Services (Q.2-Q.4). Programme with integration of Programme in conjunction with Committee’s (CYPSC) well-being. Traveller Mental Health county plans. Promotion Working Group. 2.2.1 Provide community based NOSP Commence development of Dissemination of national Review effectiveness of organisations with universal guidance for guidance and protocol protocols and identify areas for Source: Connecting for Life Implementation Plan 2017-2020 guidelines and protocols community-based organisations documents. action. on effective suicide on responding to persons at Organisation of NOSP prevention. risk (Q.3-Q.4). symposium on development Z3.5 National Positive Aging Strategy and implementation of suicide prevention guidance and Table 34 - Key National Positive Aging Strategy Elements protocols. 2.3.2 Deliver awareness NOSP Launch the on-line suicide Based on participation rates for Based on participation rates for National Goal Key Objective Area for Action Lead training programmes in awareness training programme new programmes in 2017, new programmes in 2017, line with the National developed by NOSP (Q.2). targets for online and face-to- targets for online and face-to- 1: Remove barriers to participation and 1.3: Promote the concept of active 1.3.1: Supports for the community and DECLG Training Plan prioritising Develop a 2-hour suicide face training will be established face training will be established provide more opportunities for the continued citizenship and the value of volunteering, voluntary sector to provide services for professionals and prevention awareness face-to- for 2018- 2020. for 2018- 2020. involvement of people as they age in all and encourage people of all ages to become people as they age. volunteers across face programme for the general Finalise and launch of online aspects of cultural, economic and social life more involved in and to contribute to their community-based public (Q.2 – Q.3). training programme. in their communities according to their own communities. organisations, particularly needs, preferences and capacities. Bereavement training 1.4: Promote the development of 1.4.2: Supports for community and voluntary DECLG those who come into programmes will be tested in opportunities for engagement and sector to provide opportunities for regular contact with four sites across the country participation of people of all ages in a range participation by people as they age. people who are (Q.1). of arts, cultural, spiritual, leisure, learning vulnerable to suicide. Ongoing community capacity and physical activities in their local building (Q.1-Q4). communities. 2.3.3 Deliver a range of mental HSE Delivery of Zippy’s Friends for Ongoing delivery of schools Ongoing delivery of schools 1.5: Enable people as they age ‘to get out 1.5.3: Integration of Rural Transport DTTS; NTA health promoting H&W primary school teachers (Q.1- evidence-based mental health evidence-based mental health and about’ through the provision of Programme with other local transport programmes in 4). promotion programmes: promotion programmes: Zippy’s accessible, affordable, and flexible transport services. community, health and Roll out of MindOut 2 Training Zippy’s Friends (primary) and Friends and MindOut 2. systems in both rural and urban areas. education settings aimed to teachers targeting senior MindOut 2 (post-primary). Support the implementation of 3: Support people age they age to maintain, 3.3: Support the design and development of 3.3.2: Age friendly urban environments DECLG at improving the mental cycle post primary schools Support the implementation of the Junior Cycle Wellbeing improve or manage their physical and age-friendly public spaces, transport and (street lighting, footpaths, roads, public health of the whole (Q.3). the Junior Cycle Wellbeing Guidelines in post primary mental health and wellbeing. buildings. seating). population and priority In partnership with NEPS and Guidelines in post-primary schools in partnership with the groups. the PDST, finalise the schools in partnership with the JCT and PDST. Source: National Positive Aging Strategy development of mental JCT and PDST. Ongoing implementation of wellbeing resources to support Ongoing delivery of MindOut Wellbeing Training to HSE staff, the development of the Junior training to Youth Workers and Service Users and wider Z3.6 Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery Cycle Wellbeing Guidelines for Youthreach tutors as part of community pending positive post-primary schools. evaluation findings. out-of-schools programme. Table 35 - Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery Elements Roll out of MindOut Training to Rollout of Wellbeing Training to Supporting the delivery of Youth Workers and Youthreach HSE staff, Service Users and Social Prescribing initiatives at tutors as part of out-of-schools wider community pending community level, building on Ref. Strategic Action Delivered by Lead Partners programme. evaluation findings. the learning from effective 2.1.18 Help individuals affected b) Utilising SICAP to improve the life chances and opportunities of those who DSP HSE models. Evaluation and findings of HP & Publish HSE principles to by substance misuse to are marginalised in society, living in poverty or in unemployment through DHPLG Other relevant I Wellbeing Training pilot underpin the implementation of The implementation of a build their recovery community development approaches, targeted supports and interagency Departments & delivery to be finalised (Q.4). Social Prescribing, pending national standardised approach capital. collaboration. Agencies, C&V Draft HSE principles to cross-divisional endorsement. to the delivery of Stress Control sectors underpin the implementation of Develop an evaluation to HSE staff and service users. 2.1.22 Expand the range, a) Identifying and addressing gaps in child and adolescent service provision; HSE, C&V sectors, Social Prescribing (Q.2-Q.3). framework for Social availability and TUSLA DATFs Increased delivery of Smartstart Prescribing. b) Developing multi-disciplinary child and adolescent teams; and geographical spread of Preschool programme (Q.4). c) Developing better interagency cooperation between problem substance use Scoping the delivery of a problem drug and alcohol HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 87 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 88 22/08/2018

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Ref Element Lead Key Milestone in 2017 Key Milestone in 2018 Key Milestone in 2019 national standardised approach to the delivery of Stress Control 2.1.1 Implement consistent, HSE Local CfL Action Plans (75%) Local CfL Action Plans Assess level of implementation, to HSE staff and service users. multi-agency suicide MH completed and published (Q.3). completed and in identify outstanding priorities, 3.1.6 Deliver on agreed commitments prevention plans to Guidance provided to ensure implementation phase with and address potential Continue the HSE Representation and input into Engage with priority groups in National Wellbeing and enhance communities’ alignment of national and local monitoring process in place to enablers/barriers. development of mental H&W the Youth Mental Health including the youth sector to Mental Health Promotion Plan capacity to respond to implementation plans, as part of support progress reporting. Continued development of health promotion Pathfinder initiative and final seek input into the National in conjunction with partners to suicidal behaviours, Quality Assurance Process Full integration of relevant monitoring and reporting programmes with and for report. Mental Health Promotion Plan. deliver with agreed priority emerging suicide clusters (Q.1-Q.4). national CfL lead actions. framework/ mechanisms as priority groups, including Delivery of mental health Deliver on key actions in the and murder-suicide. The the Youth Sector. promotion capacity-building Healthy Ireland Men Plan 2017 groups. Framework for evaluating and required. Deliver on key actions in the plans with be the monitoring implementation training to those working with – 2021. responsibility of the HSE young people in conjunction Healthy Ireland Men Plan 2017 progress to be developed by Ongoing national delivery of - Mental Health Division NOSP in collaboration with with Jigsaw (Q.1-Q.4). mental health promotion and aligned with the HSE MHD/ROSPs (Q.1-Q.4). Delivery of Engage Training capacity building training to 2021. Community Health and further train-the-trainers as those working with young Implementation of Traveller Organisations structure Develop structures for implementation of CfL part of ongoing implementation people in conjunction with Mental Health Promotion (CHO), Local Economic & of Healthy Ireland Men-Action Jigsaw. Programme. Community Plans and recommendations in mental health services across all CHOs Plan (Q.4). Development of Traveller Children &Young Development of ‘Sheds for Life’ Mental Health Promotion People’s Services (Q.2-Q.4). Programme with integration of Programme in conjunction with Committee’s (CYPSC) well-being. Traveller Mental Health county plans. Promotion Working Group. 2.2.1 Provide community based NOSP Commence development of Dissemination of national Review effectiveness of organisations with universal guidance for guidance and protocol protocols and identify areas for Source: Connecting for Life Implementation Plan 2017-2020 guidelines and protocols community-based organisations documents. action. on effective suicide on responding to persons at Organisation of NOSP prevention. risk (Q.3-Q.4). symposium on development Z3.5 National Positive Aging Strategy and implementation of suicide prevention guidance and Table 34 - Key National Positive Aging Strategy Elements protocols. 2.3.2 Deliver awareness NOSP Launch the on-line suicide Based on participation rates for Based on participation rates for National Goal Key Objective Area for Action Lead training programmes in awareness training programme new programmes in 2017, new programmes in 2017, line with the National developed by NOSP (Q.2). targets for online and face-to- targets for online and face-to- 1: Remove barriers to participation and 1.3: Promote the concept of active 1.3.1: Supports for the community and DECLG Training Plan prioritising Develop a 2-hour suicide face training will be established face training will be established provide more opportunities for the continued citizenship and the value of volunteering, voluntary sector to provide services for professionals and prevention awareness face-to- for 2018- 2020. for 2018- 2020. involvement of people as they age in all and encourage people of all ages to become people as they age. volunteers across face programme for the general Finalise and launch of online aspects of cultural, economic and social life more involved in and to contribute to their community-based public (Q.2 – Q.3). training programme. in their communities according to their own communities. organisations, particularly needs, preferences and capacities. Bereavement training 1.4: Promote the development of 1.4.2: Supports for community and voluntary DECLG those who come into programmes will be tested in opportunities for engagement and sector to provide opportunities for regular contact with four sites across the country participation of people of all ages in a range participation by people as they age. people who are (Q.1). of arts, cultural, spiritual, leisure, learning vulnerable to suicide. Ongoing community capacity and physical activities in their local building (Q.1-Q4). communities. 2.3.3 Deliver a range of mental HSE Delivery of Zippy’s Friends for Ongoing delivery of schools Ongoing delivery of schools 1.5: Enable people as they age ‘to get out 1.5.3: Integration of Rural Transport DTTS; NTA health promoting H&W primary school teachers (Q.1- evidence-based mental health evidence-based mental health and about’ through the provision of Programme with other local transport programmes in 4). promotion programmes: promotion programmes: Zippy’s accessible, affordable, and flexible transport services. community, health and Roll out of MindOut 2 Training Zippy’s Friends (primary) and Friends and MindOut 2. systems in both rural and urban areas. education settings aimed to teachers targeting senior MindOut 2 (post-primary). Support the implementation of 3: Support people age they age to maintain, 3.3: Support the design and development of 3.3.2: Age friendly urban environments DECLG at improving the mental cycle post primary schools Support the implementation of the Junior Cycle Wellbeing improve or manage their physical and age-friendly public spaces, transport and (street lighting, footpaths, roads, public health of the whole (Q.3). the Junior Cycle Wellbeing Guidelines in post primary mental health and wellbeing. buildings. seating). population and priority In partnership with NEPS and Guidelines in post-primary schools in partnership with the groups. the PDST, finalise the schools in partnership with the JCT and PDST. Source: National Positive Aging Strategy development of mental JCT and PDST. Ongoing implementation of wellbeing resources to support Ongoing delivery of MindOut Wellbeing Training to HSE staff, the development of the Junior training to Youth Workers and Service Users and wider Z3.6 Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery Cycle Wellbeing Guidelines for Youthreach tutors as part of community pending positive post-primary schools. evaluation findings. out-of-schools programme. Table 35 - Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery Elements Roll out of MindOut Training to Rollout of Wellbeing Training to Supporting the delivery of Youth Workers and Youthreach HSE staff, Service Users and Social Prescribing initiatives at tutors as part of out-of-schools wider community pending community level, building on Ref. Strategic Action Delivered by Lead Partners programme. evaluation findings. the learning from effective 2.1.18 Help individuals affected b) Utilising SICAP to improve the life chances and opportunities of those who DSP HSE models. Evaluation and findings of HP & Publish HSE principles to by substance misuse to are marginalised in society, living in poverty or in unemployment through DHPLG Other relevant I Wellbeing Training pilot underpin the implementation of The implementation of a build their recovery community development approaches, targeted supports and interagency Departments & delivery to be finalised (Q.4). Social Prescribing, pending national standardised approach capital. collaboration. Agencies, C&V Draft HSE principles to cross-divisional endorsement. to the delivery of Stress Control sectors underpin the implementation of Develop an evaluation to HSE staff and service users. 2.1.22 Expand the range, a) Identifying and addressing gaps in child and adolescent service provision; HSE, C&V sectors, Social Prescribing (Q.2-Q.3). framework for Social availability and TUSLA DATFs Increased delivery of Smartstart Prescribing. b) Developing multi-disciplinary child and adolescent teams; and geographical spread of Preschool programme (Q.4). c) Developing better interagency cooperation between problem substance use Scoping the delivery of a problem drug and alcohol HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 87 22/08/2018 HEALTHY LONGFORD PLAN FINAL V3.docx Page 88 22/08/2018

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services for those under and child and family services. the age of 18. 4.1.39 Support and promote Supporting and promoting community participation in all local, regional and DOH Community Sector, community participation national structures. LAs, DHPLG, in all local, regional and DATFs national structures.

Source: Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery

Z3.7 Get Ireland Walking Strategy and Action Plan 2017-2020

Table 36 - Key Get Ireland Walking Strategy Elements

Ref. Action Lead Partners Timeframe 1.3 Engage in promotional talks, events and activities that LSPs. ETBs, Ireland Active, LAs, news and media 2017 - 2020 align with the vision, mission and values of GIW. broadcasters, Waterways Ireland and other organisations. 4.1 Contribute to a publicly available directory of walking HSE, CARA, Coillte, GAA, IHF, LAs, Mountaineering 2017 – 2020 routes that contains information on accessibility and Sport Ireland, Parkrun, Waterways Ireland. suitability of routes for different types of walkers. Ireland. 4.2 Identify funding schemes, grants and resources available LSPs. GAA, National Healthy Cities and Counties Network, 2019 to communities to improve the walking environment in LAs, LCDCs, Sport Ireland and other collaborators. their areas, negotiate funding opportunities at a national level and communicate details to local communities. 5.1 Continue to grow and expand the Active LSPs. Age & Opportunity, Arthritis Ireland, GAA, HSE, Ongoing Community Walking Programme to 500 IHF, Ireland Active, LAs, Mountaineering communities across Ireland by 2020. Ireland, Sport Ireland and partner organisations. 5.2 Support the development of walking groups for CARA, Age & Opportunity, community and voluntary Ongoing persons with disabilities, persons from minority LSPs. organisations, Ireland Active, LCDCs, NGBs, communities, and persons who are economically, Parkrun. socially or educationally disadvantaged.

Source: Get Ireland Walking

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115011(3) Turner PG.indd 90 18/10/2018 15:59 Healthy Longford Plan 2018-2022 services for those under and child and family services. the age of 18. 4.1.39 Support and promote Supporting and promoting community participation in all local, regional and DOH Community Sector, community participation national structures. LAs, DHPLG, in all local, regional and DATFs national structures.

Source: Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery

Z3.7 Get Ireland Walking Strategy and Action Plan 2017-2020

Table 36 - Key Get Ireland Walking Strategy Elements

Ref. Action Lead Partners Timeframe 1.3 Engage in promotional talks, events and activities that LSPs. ETBs, Ireland Active, LAs, news and media 2017 - 2020 align with the vision, mission and values of GIW. broadcasters, Waterways Ireland and other organisations. 4.1 Contribute to a publicly available directory of walking HSE, CARA, Coillte, GAA, IHF, LAs, Mountaineering 2017 – 2020 routes that contains information on accessibility and Sport Ireland, Parkrun, Waterways Ireland. suitability of routes for different types of walkers. Ireland. 4.2 Identify funding schemes, grants and resources available LSPs. GAA, National Healthy Cities and Counties Network, 2019 to communities to improve the walking environment in LAs, LCDCs, Sport Ireland and other collaborators. their areas, negotiate funding opportunities at a national level and communicate details to local communities. 5.1 Continue to grow and expand the Active LSPs. Age & Opportunity, Arthritis Ireland, GAA, HSE, Ongoing Community Walking Programme to 500 IHF, Ireland Active, LAs, Mountaineering communities across Ireland by 2020. Ireland, Sport Ireland and partner organisations. 5.2 Support the development of walking groups for CARA, Age & Opportunity, community and voluntary Ongoing persons with disabilities, persons from minority LSPs. organisations, Ireland Active, LCDCs, NGBs, communities, and persons who are economically, Parkrun. socially or educationally disadvantaged.

Source: Get Ireland Walking

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