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Irish Examiner
30-06-2025
- General
- Irish Examiner
No Name Clubs: Helping Cork teenagers navigate modern life
'IF YOU'D asked me a year ago, 'would you get up on stage and be confident talking to the person on stage?', I'd tell you 100% no, because I wouldn't have had the confidence,' says Jake Costin. Nevertheless, when the 17-year-old from St Joseph's No Name Club in Cork's Mayfield saw one of his pals on stage at the organisation's annual Youth Awards in 2024, he turned to his leaders and said, 'I want to do this next year. I feel like I could do it'. Jake Costen pictured at the St. Joseph's No Name club in Mayfield. Picture Chani Anderson Costin was subsequently nominated by his club members to represent them at the 2025 awards, and in the space of that year, such was his growth in confidence and ability that he went on to win Host of the Year at this year's event, an accolade awarded yearly to two No Name Club members who have made an outstanding contribution to their club and local community. 'As soon as I said 'I'm putting my name forward', [my No Name] leaders and my peers were giving me advice and helping me,' says Costin, whose prize is a three-year college scholarship and a trip to Croatia in July to represent No Name Club through the Erasmus+ programme. He says that being a member of No Name is 'massively enjoyable' and 'a huge confidence booster', and recent research has shown just what a valuable resource the youth-led, volunteer-supported social clubs are for young teenagers as they navigate the difficulties of 21st century life. Jake McCarthy and Emily O'Brien pictured playing games at the St. Joseph's No Name club in Mayfield. Picture Chani Anderson The research, conducted by No Name over several months of last year, drew on surveys and focus groups with members, volunteers, staff, and board members, and compared findings with national data relating to the same demographic as No Name membership (15 to 18-year-olds). A whopping 93% of members reported increased confidence and self-esteem, while 81% said that their mental well-being had improved from being part of No Name. Olivia Meade and Jake Costen pictured playing bingo at the St. Joseph's No Name club in Mayfield. Picture Chani Anderson In contrast, a 2021 study of 4,400 Irish teenagers conducted by researchers at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, found that more than 29% of the adolescents described their mental health as 'bad' or 'very bad'. No Name Club, which was founded in 1978, is clearly doing something right. The organisation's ethos has always been to help safeguard young people's 'right to enjoy life, feel respected, and to mature without a reliance on alcohol and other drugs'. Having such boundaries seems to be a key factor in its success, with 96% of members feeling reduced peer or societal pressure to use alcohol or other substances. WATCHING THE GROWTH Natasha Walshe organises the games for a group of teenagers at the St. Joseph's No Name club in Mayfield. Picture Chani Anderson Natasha Walshe, now 30 joined St Joseph's No Name Club in 2011, when she was in transition year. 'I went up on a Monday night and brought a couple of friends. It was great because it was really whatever we needed at the time. We went on outings or had activities like boot camp. Then, when we were in sixth year, sometimes we just went up and had the space to do our homework; it wasn't like a homework club, but that's what we needed at the time and that's what they gave us the space to do. I think that's a real example of the youth-led part of the organisation. It's whatever you need it to be on a given night.' Walshe has had various roles in the club since she 'aged out', and, in addition to being a volunteer and the secretary of St Joseph's, she serves as a board member of the national organisation. Emily O'Brien pictured at the St. Joseph's No Name club in Mayfield. Picture Chani Anderson What has kept her invested for so long is, she says, 'tradition and change', citing the recent Youth Awards as an example: 'There's always that bit of tradition, and a lot of things are still the same, but it's always changing; there are always interesting new young people to see on stage. So while the core of the No Name Club stays the same, each year is different. Each group brings something different. But everything is rooted in that ethos of positive social events without alcohol and drugs.' For Walshe, volunteering is a life-affirming, enriching experience. 'Watching the growth of the young people is unbelievable,' she says. 'In my club, in the Youth Council, they have so many good ideas and such a positive attitude. Their enthusiasm really rubs off on you.' Jake McCarthy pictured at the St. Joseph's No Name club in Mayfield. Picture Chani Anderson Given the hugely positive findings of the recent research, what does she think is key to No Name fostering such confidence, self-esteem and community in its members? 'A big part of it is we take everybody as they are. If you're coming to us and you're already a confident person and ready to be up on stage and are just raring to perform, we have the space for that. But if you're a quieter person, less outgoing, you're treated the same, first of all. But you are met where you are.' Ewan Stockley pictured at the St. Joseph's No Name club in Mayfield. Picture Chani Anderson No Name is a safe space for all young people. 'Whether it is people who are part of the LGBTQI+ community or people from disadvantaged areas or people living with disabilities. We're not one-size-fits-all all. We're very much everybody can come to us, and I think that's very important.' No Name Club board member Edith Geraghty's first involvement with the organisation was in the early 2000s, when she and her late husband Seamus set up Erris No Name Club in Belmullet, Co Mayo. She taught drama and her teenage students were bemoaning the lack of a place 'to hang out'. The club is still thriving today, while Geraghty has since had various roles within the organisation. MEETING PEOPLE WHERE THEY ARE Part of the reason for No Name's longevity, she believes, is down to its ability to evolve and pivot to meet the requirements of its members. 'For example, consent. It was a big thing that was coming up, so we sent our staff to train with the National Youth Council of Ireland on consent so that they could then deliver that best practice back into the club. If anything comes up like that, we're able to pivot and meet it in terms of training.' The training No Name offers is never finger-wagging, but rather seeks to educate and empower. 'As teenagers, they're at that time in life when they want their peers and they need a peer group,' says Geraghty. 'There's also an assumption that we break down, which is that everybody is drinking. When you actually sit down and talk to teenagers, they're not, but they think all the others are. [The club] gives them a peer group, so when they go out and socialise they're able to say 'no, we're not drinking tonight. We're in the No Name Club'. And that's extremely valuable. And once they get the confidence that brings, it tends to stay with them.' Jake Costen and Olivia Meade pictured at the St. Joseph's No Name club in Mayfield. Picture Chani Anderson The research found No Name members out-performed the national average on several key metrics, from well-being to alcohol and drug misuse. For example, 54% of 17/18-year-olds reported they aren't drinking alcohol compared to the national average of 18%; while 96% of all club members stated they aren't engaging in substance misuse. 'We put the structure in place. We put the boundaries in place, they know what they can and cannot do,' says Geraghty. 'But within that space, they get to make all the decisions. They get to choose what they want to do.' Three years ago, Geraghty became grievously ill. While in hospital, and being told she 'wouldn't make it', she was Zoomed, FaceTimed, and visited by all the young people she'd known in Erris No Name Club, as well as all those she'd met travelling to clubs countrywide as a No Name development officer. 'They came to see me and to tell me that under no circumstances was I to die. It's not often you get a chance to realise that you've had an impact. 'It was such a marvellous, life-affirming thing for them to do.' A few months after she finally left hospital, Geraghty, who lives with severe complications from her illness, took up a seat on the No Name board. 'I have never missed an event since. The organisation has wrapped itself around me. They have gone above and beyond. The support that they've given me has been absolutely outstanding. I always describe No Name Club as a family and that's what we are.' See Cobh No Name Club is currently looking for a venue. If you can help, please email admin@
Glasgow Times
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Call the Midwife confirms return of young star for series 15
Filming for series 15 of the hit BBC period drama is already underway. The BBC previously confirmed that cast members returning for series 15 of Call the Midwife will include: Judy Parfitt as Sister Monica Joan Jenny Agutter as Sister Julienne Laura Main as Shelagh Turner Helen George as Trixie Aylward Cliff Parisi as Fred Buckle Stephen McGann as Dr Turner Linda Bassett as Nurse Crane Annabelle Apsion as Violet Buckle Georgie Glen as Miss Higgins Call the Midwife confirms young star's return Now, a behind-the-scenes image from on set has revealed Teddy Berriman will be returning as Andrew Trottwood in the new series of Call the Midwife. The image, posted on Instagram, shows Teddy and his mum Nicola with the caption: "Look who's on set this morning! It's Teddy Berriman and his mum Nicola. "Teddy is back as Andrew Trottwood for a day of VERY warm filming!" Fans were excited by the news that the young star would be returning for series 15, rushing to the comments section of the post to pass on their well-wishes. One fan commented: "Lovely he's back where he belongs." Another added: "Love this little star." A third person said: "Amazing!! So glad Teddy is back." While this fan posted: "I'm so glad to see him back on set as his whole storyline was definitely an emotional one that got me in both my mom heart and my teacher one. "It was hands down my favorite episode of season 14 and I cannot wait to see what happens next." Top 10 best British TV series Teddy wins award for role on Call the Midwife Teddy appeared in series 14 of Call the Midwife as the measles-injured Andrew Trottwood. Earlier this month, the young star won Young Influencer of the Year at the council Youth Awards hosted in Bishop Auckland. The award came due to his performance on BBC's Call the Midwife. Following the award, Teddy's mum Nicola said: 'Teddy and myself were so excited when we heard the news! "Teddy has a massive spring in his confidence - it's unbelievable." RECOMMENDED READING: When will series 15 of Call the Midwife air on TV? Series 15 of Call the Midwife will feature eight hour-long episodes, set in the East End, which will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from January 2026. The new series will follow a two-part Christmas special, which will be set in Hong Kong and Poplar.
The Herald
02-06-2025
- Business
- The Herald
Time to shine spotlight on unsung heroes
They will be vying for the respective category titles which include: Environment, Sports, Arts and Culture, Business/Entrepreneur, Education, Community, Civil Society, Gender Based Violence, Health and Safety as well as the Standard Bank Youth Category known as 'Make your Mark'. The latter is the event's gold sponsors' youth initiative to support young change-makers and social innovators who are making an impact in their communities. The 'Make Your Mark' award provides special recognition to recipients who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation and dedication. The Head of client coverage, personal and private banking for Standard Bank Eastern Cape, Unathi Maqalekane, said it aimed to become the catalyst that transformed these individual initiatives into a reality in alignment to the company's vision 'Africa is our home and we drive her growth'. 'The Herald NMU Citizens of the Year Awards gives special recognition to ordinary individuals who create a positive impact within the community. 'Similarly, our focus is on creating positive impacts for our clients, our employees, our communities and the environment. 'On that account, we are excited to continue as a valued partner because we share a similar commitment to uplift society to drive Africa's sustainable growth.' Maqalekane said c elebrating the unsung heroes was crucial as they were often the backbone of communities and organisations, providing essential support that might not always be visible. 'Recognising their efforts by virtue of these accolades shows that their contributions are valued and appreciated and can inspire others to step up and offer their own support thereby creating a culture of community and belonging.' The acting dean of students at Nelson Mandela University, Vuyo Bongela, said their decision to continue as a partner stemmed from a shared vision to celebrate those who embodied the spirit of ubuntu. 'We believe that being recognised in this way not only affirms the emotional journey of the winners, but also validates the purpose and passion that fuels their work. 'It raises their visibility, often enabling them to access greater support and extend their reach, ultimately amplifying the positive change they bring about in their communities. 'As our tagline charges us to 'change the world', we believe such endeavours contribute to this bold mission,' Bongela said. If you know of anyone who exemplifies the true meaning of upliftment and positive change, let's honour them. Nominate your local hero on this link: For any queries, please contact The Herald marketing manager, Berna Ulay-Walters on ulayb@ The event sponsors are: Co-title sponsors: Nelson Mandela University | Gold sponsor: Standard Bank | Bronze sponsor: Continental Tyre SA | Support partners: Vodacom, Three Peaks Wine and JTC Decor Events | Venue sponsors: Sun Boardwalk. The Herald
Daily Record
21-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Amazing Kilmarnock teen planning 'dream' prom after devastating terminal cancer diagnosis
Katy Hay has planned a bucket list after being diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. A Kilmarnock teen facing terminal cancer will fulfil her dreams of having a prom with help from her school, her family and friends. Katy Hay, who recently won an award for being the most resilient young person of the year at East Ayrshire's Youth Awards, has spent the past year fighting one of the rarest and most aggressive forms of bone cancer. Katy, an S4 pupil at Park School, was diagnosed with stage 4 Ewing Sarcoma, also known as Metastatic Ewing Sarcoma, on April 12, 2024 after complaining of a pain in her thigh for three weeks. Since then, 15-year-old Katy has endured hospital stays, 10 rounds of chemotherapy and had major surgery as well as radiotherapy to help with the pain after finding out her cancer was back. Since finding out the news, Katy has been at home and has constant contact with specialist nurses that assist with anything she needs. With help from family she also started creating a bucket list of things she wants to do, including having a prom. Together with her best friend Kirsty they have been dreaming of going to prom since they were in first year at school. Katy's family, friends, headteacher Mrs Carole-Anne Burns and local businesses that kindly offered their services, will make Katy's dream come true on May 19. Katy's mum Shelly Cornick, 45, told Ayrshire Live: "Katy and her best friend Kirsty have been planning prom since they were in S1 so this is something we wanted to make sure they got. "Katy and Kirsty went to try on dresses at Beau Beau Boutique in Ayr where they found their perfect dresses. The woman there gave Katy her dress for nothing. "We also needed to have some alterations done to make sure it was safe for her as she walks with crutches and uses a wheelchair. Elizabeth Wallace is doing the alterations for free also." The prom will take place on May 19 at Crosshouse Bowling club, who have very kindly donated the hall. Katy and Kirsty have created mood boards for the prom and have come up with the theme 'Summer Nights'. The dress code is 'Dress to Impress', with the colour theme of blue and pink. Katy's aunt has organised a limo to take Katy from her house to St Joseph's Academy where the rest of her classmates will be waiting. They will then be taken to Crosshouse Bowling Club on a Boogie Bus, the owner of which has kindly reduced his normal rate. Park School headteacher Mrs Burns said: "The planning of the prom has given the girls a purpose and something positive to focus on. "We really want Katy to have the best prom ever and to make beautiful memories for all her family and friends." The family has also managed to secure special trips, including Craig Tara stay, while Make a Wish is flying Katy to Legoland for a few days. Shelly also shared that James Cunningham, Murray Bar owner, is trying to arrange for Katy to have a helicopter land outside the house and take her for a ride. He is also planning on taking her for flying lessons at Loch Lomond. While Shelly feels "heartbroken", she is trying to help her daughter as best as she can to make her life as joyful and comfortable as possible. She said: "Nothing is harder than watching your child so sick and there is nothing you can do to help. "Katy spent more time in hospital than at home so the ward became our home and the nurses, doctors and all the staff are our extended family. I will forever be grateful to them for what they did for us all as a family." Katy was first diagnosed with stage 4 Ewings Sarcoma on April 12, 2024. Shelly said: "At this point we did not know what kind of cancer she had as she needed to undergo more tests. "As you can imagine we were devastated and scared." Shelly continued: "Katy had been complaining of a pain in her thigh for three weeks and was taking regular pain medication which was abnormal for her. She also said she could feel a lump but when we felt her leg we couldn't feel anything, it wasn't until she was at the doctors and was getting on the examination bed that I finally saw the lump. "Katy was diagnosed with stage 4 Ewings Sarcoma, this is a very aggressive and rare bone cancer. "After meeting the medical team Katy was started on a regiment of five different chemo drugs, one week she would get three of them and then two weeks later she would get the remaining two. "She had surgery to remove the femur and replace it with a prosthetic bone. This took 13 hours. "Katy should have had 14 rounds of chemotherapy but she suffered really bad side effects from the chemo drugs so she was only able to have 10 rounds and got sepsis 3 times. "She also spent 6 weeks in the PICU where we nearly lost her a few times. She had to have an operation to remove 2/3rds of her colon which left her with a stoma." Last month, Katy mentioned the pain in her hip and top of her leg so the doctor brought her scans forward. Shelly said this is when medics found that the cancer had come back and it was spreading around Katy's pelvis. Shelly said: "Due to the fact the chemotherapy was basically killing her she couldn't have anymore. This is when we were told that Katy was now terminal. "Since finding out her cancer was back she has also had radiotherapy to help with the pain." She continued: "Katy is honestly one of the most amazing resilient people I know, through this whole journey she has just got on with it and been so strong. I have said it so many times throughout her life that she is my hero. "I think Katy's strength and determination have helped us get through it as she is the one going through it all. We are just helping her as best as we can." She added: "It has been such a hard journey, made harder for the girls as they lost their dad suddenly last year also." Recently, Katy won an award for being the most resilient young person of the year at the East Ayrshire Youth Awards at the Park Hotel. Katy has seven sisters and is the youngest child. She loves Lego, going for family days out, having chippy by the sea and being on her phone. As a family, Katy enjoys Disney dinners, where they choose a Disney movie and base the food around it, for instance for Lady and The Tramp night, Katy's family would watch a movie and have spaghetti and meatballs. Shelly said: "Katy is a funny cheeky girl who loves her family and friends more than anything. "I just love watching her laugh and joke with her sisters. "This is only a snippet of what Katy has endured through the last year and she is still smiling."
