Relate NI Publishes New Book which explores the history of the organisation and relationship counselling in Northern Ireland over the past 65 years
It’s been 10 years since Relate NI launched the book; ‘From GI Brides to the Modern Family – 65 Years of Relate NI.’
Written by the Historian and Author, Jonathan Bardon, the book charts the history of the organisation which mirrors the social history of Northern Ireland and the relational issues people have faced as a result of a changing society.
The book captures the story of the last six decades which has been one of homecoming from war and the effect that had on relationships. It is also the story of post-war Northern Ireland, the baby boom, the development of the National Health Service, legal reform and social welfare.
The book reflects on a period which has seen societal boundaries pushed and stretched. Relate NI’s story also coincides with the impact of ‘The Troubles’, the resulting peace process and overall societal change that ranges from the everyday pressures faced by families to the introduction of Civil Partnerships.
Speaking at the launch of the book in the Grand Opera House, Belfast, Mr Alasdair MacInnes, Head of the Family Policy Unit, Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety, said,
“I would like to congratulate Jonathan Bardon and Relate NI on publishing this 65th anniversary book and to commend the organisation and its current and former staff and Trustees for their dedication and commitment to the delivery of professional counselling services to the community in Northern Ireland over the past sixty five years.
Work carried out by counselling organisations such as Relate complements the work of the health and social care sector and the services they provide are greatly appreciated by all those who use them across Northern Ireland.”
Ms Fionnuala McAndrew, Director of Social Care and Children, Health and Social Care Board, said,
“I would also like to congratulate Relate NI on their publication which highlights the delivery of public services to the community over a 65 year history which is a significant achievement for any organisation.
Counselling and other psychological therapy interventions can play an important part in resolving difficult family situations and it is reassuring to know that for over 65 years Relate has been continuously developing, changing and improving. This does not happen by accident. It happens because of strong leadership, dedicated staff and a commitment to provide a good service.”
Jonathan Bardon, the book’s author said,
“Relate’s development over the past 65 years has reflected tumultuous societal changes, so while the organisation was established to address relationship and marriage issues in a post-war environment with GI Brides, Relate’s counselling services have evolved, developed and diversified to reflect the changing nature of society here in Northern Ireland.”
John O’Doherty, Chair of Relate NI said,
“Increasing rates of breakdown of couple and family relationships, the development of blended families, the introduction of civil partnerships, the impact of domestic abuse, the needs of children and young people and those interacting with the health and social care and criminal justice systems and more recently the impact of the current economic difficulties on relationships have all led to an evolution in the way Relate delivers its services.”
The book can be purchased from Relate NI at a cost of £9.99 plus p&p £5.00.
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