ASCERT, Northern Ireland’s leading charity dedicated to reducing drug and alcohol-related harm, were once again at Omagh Pride on Saturday 14th June 2025, showing its ongoing commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community in the West Tyrone area.
The charity has been delivering vital drug and alcohol services across Northern Ireland since 1998 and recently expanded its community-based support by launching SMART Recovery meetings in Omagh in partnership with the international SMART Recovery programme. These free weekly meetings take place every Wednesday from 11am – 12.30pm at Omagh Library and are open to any adult aged 18 or over who is looking to change addictive behaviours.
ASCERT provides an inclusive, safe space for all, and encourage members of the LGBTQ+ community to reach out if alcohol or drug use is negatively affecting their lives. ASCERT offers help without judgement.
Chief Executive of ASCERT, Gary McMichael, explains:
“We launched SMART Recovery in Omagh because we saw the need for more accessible, self-help addiction support in the area. Omagh has the highest number of people accessing addiction services in the Western Trust after Derry, but it has less support available. It offers a central location for people living in the rural areas in the Southern area of the Western Trust. These meetings are welcoming and inclusive, everyone is treated with respect, and people focus on recovery together, whatever their background or identity.”
SMART Recovery offers a structured, science-based approach to changing problematic behaviours and gives people the tools to manage urges, cope with emotions, and live a more balanced life. No referral or booking is needed to attend, just come along.
LGBTQ+ individuals are nearly twice as likely to experience alcohol dependence compared to the general population are also more likely to have a mental illness that can co-exist with alcohol use (Institute of Alcohol Studies, 2021). Members of the LGBTQ+ community face challenges that can contribute to substance use. Feelings of isolation, discrimination, or family rejection can have a significant impact on wellbeing.
Gary continued:
“We’re delighted to be at Omagh Pride again this year. It’s a celebration of diversity and resilience, and a perfect opportunity to connect with people in the community who may need support. Please stop by our stall and say hello, whether it’s for advice, resources, or just a chat.”