26th May 2026
The Southern Health and Social Care Trust has paid tribute to the outstanding dedication and professionalism of its Emergency Support Centre teams, who play a critical role in supporting individuals, families and communities during times of crisis.
Emergency Support Centres can be activated in response to evacuations, major incidents and a range of other community emergencies.
Working closely with partner agencies including the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, local councils and voluntary organisations, support centre colleagues, ensure people affected by emergencies receive immediate care, reassurance and practical help.
The Trust’s Emergency Support Centre Managers co-ordinate emergency responses across – Craigavon and Banbridge, Newry and Mourne, and Armagh and Dungannon – often working under challenging and emotionally demanding circumstances.
Working on an ‘on-call’ basis, the team could be called upon anytime day or night, to set up a centre – for example an Emergency Rest Centre, Survivor Reception Centre, Friends and Relatives Reception Centre or Community Assistance Centre.
Their responsibilities include supporting vulnerable individuals, providing updates and reassurance to families and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all attendees. They also play an important role in safeguarding, partnership working and supporting efforts to reunite families affected by emergencies.
Dr Stephen Austin, Trust Medical Director paid tribute to the team:
“The strong partnership approach and collaboration between health and social care services, emergency services, councils and the voluntary and community sector, underpins the effectiveness Emergency Support Centres in providing such critical assistance.
“Emergency Support Centre Managers offer an invaluable service to our communities at some of the most difficult moments people may experience. Their compassion, professionalism and ability to respond calmly and effectively under pressure make a real difference to individuals and families affected by emergencies.
“They work tirelessly behind the scenes, often in fast-moving and unpredictable situations, to ensure people feel safe and cared for. We are incredibly proud of the commitment shown by our Emergency Support Centre teams and grateful for the dedication they bring to this important role, protecting and supporting local communities when they need it most.”
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