Grace Women’s Development and McKeever’s Chemist, Belfast

Grace Women’s Development is a Company Limited by Guarantee and recognised as a registered charity. They are a community resource for women and their families, that advances education and training through the delivery of programmes based on community need.

They successfully gathered a local group of women to address their health concerns. These women built trust among themselves and with the local pharmacist to openly talk about personal issues. The topics were selected by the participants and deliberated on a weekly basis. Each session was a blend of empathy, shared experiences and mutual support, creating a safe space for everyone involved. The discussions ranged from common health ailments and preventative measures to mental health and wellness.

One of the most significant outcomes was the empowerment of these women through knowledge and collective wisdom. They learned not only from the pharmacist’s expertise but also from each other’s life stories and coping strategies. This sense of community fostered resilience and encouraged proactive approaches to health.

Amy Kerr, the pharmacist from McKeever Pharmacy, took great pride in her involvement in the project. Her extensive knowledge allowed her to address all of the participants’ enquiries with confidence, while also providing guidance on medication-related concerns and clarifying any questions about prescriptions. Her role in the sessions was pivotal in rebuilding trust, helping the women feel more comfortable approaching their pharmacist with future health-related inquiries.

Bernadette Montgomery, representing the Community Partner Cancer Lifeline, participated in the last session. She recounted her personal experience with cancer and discussed the support services her organisation provides not only for cancer patients but also for their family members. This session not only offered insight into cancer care but also highlighted the importance of support networks for people navigating serious health challenges.

One of the key factors that contributed to the success of the programme was the familiarity of the setting and the small group size. The intimate environment helped alleviate any anxieties that some participants may have had, creating a more comfortable atmosphere for everyone involved. We aimed to keep each session as casual as we could, allowing participants to enjoy tea and coffee while engaging in discussions. As the weeks progressed, the sessions evolved into a blend of insightful conversations and collaborative activities. This practice not only strengthened the group’s bond but also provided valuable feedback that informed Grace’s Women’s future planning.