Irish In Britain

Irish in Britain’s Green Hearts Campaign was originally developed in response to the higher than average cardio–related mortality rates experienced by Irish people in Britain. (Irish in Britain have since also initiated a campaign on mental health issues, read more here)

The campaign is centred on a collaborative community approach towards improving health outcomes for the Irish community and promoting a positive message around prevention and early detection.

Parliamentary Launch

The campaign launched on 14 March 2018 in Portcullis House, Westminster with the support of MP Maria Caulfield and attended by 15 MPs. That same week, we held our first blood pressure screening and gave out our Green Hearts 30–day health guide to over 150 people at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Trafalgar Square. Download the Green Hearts brochure here

Fundraising

A team of eight Green Hearts runners took part in the Kew Gardens 10K in September to help raise awareness and funds for the campaign. Apart from raising money, it was an opportunity to promote the benefits of exercise. Our very own board members Conrad and Patrick are the prime example of how to get from couch to 10K in seven weeks, well done fellas! You can still donate here.

Development

As we continue to evolve new and existing partnerships and collaborations, our intention is to diversify Green Hearts’ reach and impact the Irish community on a local and national scale. 

In April 2019 we partnered with Tir Chonaill Gaels football club to pilot a new Green Hearts Mental Health Charter; a voluntary commitment to raising awareness  and reducing stigma around mental health. More details to come with a launch in May.

Volunteering

Green Hearts has some amazing volunteers! Our Cardiac Nurse Valerie Nangle brings her invaluable experience and knowledge to the team as well as enlisting her student nurses to help. 

The 2018 London Rose candidates took part in our opening intergenerational screening at the London Irish Centre. Reaching a wide breadth of the community is made possible by our partnerships, collaborations and support from our member organisations, Irish businesses, Britain GAA, the Rose Centre and other charities such as Haemochromatosis UK. 

Members of the Irish community have also shared their real–life experiences with heart health. Marathon runner Geoffrey shared his story of overcoming a heart attack at the age of 37 and musician Ronan spoke about his personal experiences with alcohol.

If you would like to find out more about volunteer opportunities within the Irish community go to our Volunteer Hub.