Specsavers Newry sponsors day out for elderly and vulnerable in community

Members of the An Ríocht Men’s Shed group with Specsavers Newry Optometrist Conor O’Donnell (second from left).

Specsavers Newry have teamed up with An Ríocht GAA club in an initiative that aims to reconnect older and more vulnerable people within the GAA community.

As part of the initiative, Specsavers Newry provided a bursary fund to An Ríocht GAA club to bring the elderly and more vulnerable in the local community to the Down v Offaly game at Páirc Esler on 24th February.

The initiative, now in its second year, is a nationwide campaign by Specsavers to support those who may have fallen out of the habit of going to GAA games in recent years and who otherwise might not have the opportunity to attend, enjoy a day out watching their favourite sport. The success of last year’s initiative saw a growth in clubs’ interest to participate and so, Specsavers are delighted to facilitate the initiative in counties across the island of Ireland.

Speaking about the GAA day out, Will Stevenson, Director at Specsavers Newry says: ‘Looking out for our community is so important to us, so this was another way for us to help those who may have been shielding during the pandemic and to encourage them to re-connect with the wider society and get back to enjoying the activities they love the most. We were delighted to work with An Ríocht GAA club on this initiative and we hope that everyone enjoyed the day.’

Jim Sloan, Chairperson at An Ríocht GAA club, adds: "I would like to thank all the staff at Specsavers Newry for facilitating a great trip to Páirc Esler. It was a great day out for our Men’s Shed group and one which our community members will remember.”

Will continues: “Our customers are at the heart of our Newry store and our older customers are a key focus for us. We know that regular social interaction, the forming of relationships and connections within social networks generates higher levels of physical and mental wellbeing in older people which is why we were delighted to work with our local GAA club on this initiative.’

“Customers are always guaranteed expert eyecare and hearing services, exceptional choice and outstanding value for money at Specsavers and we look forward to welcoming new and existing customers from the GAA community in store soon.”