Core funding needed to secure future of West Cork counselling service

While funding has been allocated to avoid the immediate threat of closure of a [url=

https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41891299.html]West Cork[/url] counselling service, annual core funding is needed to provide certainty for the future.

The 2026 funding allocation for West Cork Counselling and Support Service CLG has come following concerns that the organisation could face closure at the end of September due to a financial shortfall. The service provides low cost accessible and professional counselling to individuals and families.

In July, a spokesperson said that due to a lack of funding the service was under threat of closure for the first time in its 20-year history.

“At a time when mental health services are so much in demand, we are seeking the support of the public to save a much needed and valued service,” they said at the time, asking people to contact their local councillors and TDs to urge them to get involved.

Fill the gap

Fianna Fáil TD for Cork South West Christopher O’Sullivan said last week that Minister of State Mary Butler had confirmed to him that the HSE in the South West region “will fill the gap in funding at least until the end of the year, at which point they’ll reassess how service delivery can be sustained.”

“It’s my ambition to keep the services in place for a long time to come,” he said.

Service chairperson, Teresa O’Sullivan, welcomed the news, saying: “We are hugely relieved to have secured funding for the remainder of the year, this is an enormously positive outcome for our clients, staff, volunteers and the wider community.

“The response from clients, community organisations, public representatives and supporters has been truly remarkable. We would like to thank everyone who advocated on our behalf, shared our message and highlighted the importance of community-based counselling services.”

Accessible mental health services

She also thanked Ms Butler, Mr O’Sullivan, and HSE South West for “recognising the importance of investing in accessible mental health services and supporting the continuation of care for people across the West Cork area.”

“Our focus now turns to securing commitment to core funding before the end of 2026.

“Long-term, sustainable funding is essential if we are to continue planning, developing and delivering high-quality counselling services for the years ahead.”

She said the service will work closely with government departments and stakeholders over the coming months to secure a permanent funding solution.