The Corrymeela experience

Editor - After reading the various articles on “health of the excluded” in the BMj of 28 july I would like to report on my experience with Corrymeela. Corrymeela is a voluntary organisation which has support groups worldwide. The common commitment is to “heal social, religious and political divisions that exist in Northern Ireland and throughout the world.” I worked with the organisation this summer as a volunteer.

Throughout the summer groups of children, teenagers, and adults are invited to spend a week at the site in Ballycastle, where opportunities for relaxation, expedition, meeting, and learning are organised by staff and volunteers.

Although Corrymeela does not have any rules governing which groups are invited the people often fall under the heading of the “socially excluded.” They include adult victims of domestic violence, teenagers with conduct problems, and children with experience of abuse. Corrymeela strives to break down the barriers associated with social exclusion by creating an environment where initiatives for social change can by explored and discussed.

When I arrived at Corrymeela thoughts of my medical education had been all but abandoned until September. But as the week unfolded I realised how much of my experience was relevant. I was assigned to a team looking after families consisting of a mother and children, one or both of whom had been victims of physical or sexual abuse.

Through play, artwork, expedition, and games my team of volunteers aimed to give the children an active holiday. The mothers were given time to talk to each other, share common experiences, but also have some much needed fun and freedom. Observing the behaviour of abused children and listening to their mothers' stories gave me the beginnings of insight into the effects of violence on mental wellbeing. No one expects to achieve miracles in a week, but the inroads made through support and education pave the way to reversing the trend where the socially excluded receive substandard care.

Even without a medical focus Corrymeela is an example of a small scale project contributing to the improvement of the “health of the excluded.” If anyone is interested in the work of Corrymeela or would like to be a volunteer the website address is www.corrymeela.org.uk

Ellen Tullo, third year medical student, university of Newcastle


studentBMJ 2001;09:357-398 October ISSN 0966-6494