Galway Traveller Movement is holding a series of events in Galway this month as part of an initiative to raise awareness of mental health within the Traveller community.
Launched on September 10 - World Suicide Prevention Day - the Traveller Road to Hope & Change 2026 campaign brings Traveller organisations and communities together across Ireland to raise awareness of suicide and mental health, challenge stigma, encourage dialogue and call for systemic change and the right to health and mental health for Traveller people.
The community is undertaking a month of action around health and mental health, including a Traveller Men’s Health and Wellbeing Day in Ballinasloe next week. This event, taking place on Tuesday, September 22, will focus on health, wellbeing and support for Traveller men.
Next month, journalist and activist Emma Ward will host a podcast exploring mental health and wellbeing. Ms Ward, who writes and campaigns on Traveller and disability issues, will be in conversation with Leeanna Ward and Maggie Maughan. A date for the podcast, which is supported by Exchange House, will be confirmed closer to the time.
Thursday, October 8 is National Traveller Mental Health Day, and a pilgrimage to Knock has been organised to mark the occasion. This event will also see the Traveller community coming together to call for the right to health and mental health, and for meaningful change.
“We believe in the strength of our community and in the power of coming together,” Galway Traveller Movement said in a statement. “We want to see a future where Traveller people can access the support they need, are treated with dignity, respect and equality, and where mental health is recognised as a fundamental part of our right to health.”
