Overwhelming response to Winter Woolly Campaign

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and South West Age Partnership were overwhelmed this year again with the generosity of people from across the District who entered or donated knitted and crocheted items to our Winter Woolly campaign.

In total, over 350 items including hats, scarves, blankets and gloves were donated, all of which were finished to an exceptionally high quality and standard.  This made the judging extremely difficult.

The campaign, which was launched at the beginning of October to coincide with Positive Ageing Month, aimed to encourage people to engage in a worthwhile pastime whilst also facilitating the collection of items which will be distributed to older residents and others in need in our District to ensure they keep warm during the Winter months.

Speaking about the campaign, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry McElduff, said:

“I had the opportunity to view all the submissions in advance of the judging and it was a truly impressive display.

The generosity of the people in our District is to be admired and we thank everyone who contributed in any way.

I am confident that many older residents in our District will be extremely appreciative of the Winter Woolly item they receive.

This Winter will be challenging for many people, and in particular our older residents, due to the cost of living increases including increases in fuel, energy and food.This initiative is one way in which we can support them, however, I would encourage everyone to reach out and maintain contact with older family members, friends and neighbours to ensure they are keeping well this Winter.”

Allison Forbes, Manager of South West Age Partnership, said:

“I want to say a huge thank you to all the people who donated wool and well done to everyone who knitted or crocheted these beautiful pieces for the Winter Woolly campaign.  Your generosity and kindness is amazing.”

The judges selected the best scarf, hat and blanket and the winners will be notified on Fuel Poverty Awareness Day on 02 December 2022.  Arrangements are also being made to distribute the items to the older people and others in need.

For more information on Age Friendly activities and initiatives, email age.friendly@fermanaghomagh.com.

For information on health improvement initiatives, contact our Health Improvement Team on 0300 303 1777.