Two Mayo organisations awarded funding for parent peer support projects

Two organisations in Mayo have received funding under a national programme designed to support parents through peer-led initiatives.

Norma Foley, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, announced details this week of 49 projects being supported under the Supporting Parents Parent Peer Support Fund 2026.

Among the successful applicants are Erris Family and Community Support Centre in Belmullet and Tacú Ballinrobe Family Resource Centre in Ballinrobe, each of which will receive grants of €2,500.

The funding will support projects where parents support one another by sharing experiences, offering encouragement and helping each other navigate challenges such as raising children with complex needs or mental health conditions.

Announcing the programme, Minister Foley said she was pleased to expand the initiative this year.

“I am delighted to announce the details of the projects which are being supported by the 2025/26 Parent Peer Support Fund,” she said.

“It is clear that there are many positive benefits of these programmes where parents support parents. This is why I have expanded the funding available, allowing us to directly support delivery of a greater number of peer support projects across the country.”

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The total value of the fund has increased from €100,000 to €152,500 this year, while the number of services receiving support has grown from 42 to 49.

Welcoming the announcement, Mayo Minister Dara Calleary said the funding would benefit families locally.

“My colleague Minister Norma Foley has announced funding for Erris Family and Community Support Centre and Tacú Family Resource Centre, Ballinrobe, under her department’s Parenting Support Fund,” he said.

The projects supported under the fund include initiatives for parents of children with additional needs, families affected by domestic violence and parents of LGBTIQ+ children, among other community-based supports.

The fund forms part of the Government’s Supporting Parents: A National Model of Parenting Support Services, which aims to ensure parents and carers feel confident and supported in their role while improving outcomes for children and families.

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