18/06/2026
Wexford MarineWatch Renews Partnership with "It's Good to Talk" Counselling Service.
Wexford MarineWatch is pleased to announce the renewal and continued development of its partnership with local counselling service It's Good to Talk (IGTT) as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting people in crisis while out patrolling Wexford bridge, quay front and harbour area.
The initiative allows MarineWatch volunteers to discreetly provide individuals in need with vouchers for complimentary counselling sessions through It's Good to Talk. These vouchers offer immediate access to professional support and help remove barriers that can often prevent people from seeking help.
This local partnership provides a pathway to support, ensuring that those who need help can access it quickly and confidentially within their own community.
MarineWatch Volunteers also signposts individuals to national support services, such as the Samaritans and Pieta House.
Like Wexford MarineWatch, It's Good to Talk relies heavily on community support and offers a wide range of counselling services, including su***de intervention and prevention, addiction support, bereavement counselling, relationship difficulties, gambling-related issues, and general mental health and wellbeing support.
Many people experiencing emotional distress find it difficult to make the first move towards counselling. By providing a voucher directly, MarineWatch volunteers can help bridge that gap, reducing concerns around cost, stigma, and accessibility, while encouraging individuals to engage with professional support at an early stage.
Speaking about the renewed partnership, Wexford MarineWatch CEO Alice Kealy said:
"At Wexford MarineWatch, our role extends beyond immediate intervention. We want to ensure that people have access to meaningful support after an incident and are given every opportunity to continue their journey towards recovery and wellbeing. Our partnership with It's Good to Talk provides an invaluable local resource and strengthens the support network available to those we encounter."
Newly appointed Chairperson Denis whelan added:
"Our volunteers meet people at some of the most challenging moments in their lives. While ensuring their immediate safety is our priority, we also recognise the importance of ongoing support. This partnership enables us to offer practical assistance that can make a real difference, helping people take that crucial next step towards professional counselling and support."
Wexford MarineWatch would like to acknowledge the continued collaboration of the team at It's Good to Talk and thank the local community whose generosity helps make initiatives such as this possible.
Together, we remain committed to supporting those in crisis, promoting positive mental health, and ensuring that nobody feels they have to face life's challenges alone.
Recent picture at our renewal launch includes, IGTT manager Conor Bergin, Keira Enright, IGTT along with WMW Chairperson Denis Whelan, CEO Alice Kealy and Eilish Culleton Critical Incident Stress Management Peer support.
