27/04/2026
We are pleased to mark the launch of Health for Life this Thursday, following the merger of the Old Library Trust and the Bogside and Brandywell Health Forum.
Both organisations have a long and established history of working to improve health and wellbeing across Derry and beyond. While there has been collaboration over a number of years, the case for formally bringing the organisations together has strengthened in recent times.
This step reflects a shared vision, strong leadership from both boards, and a commitment to protecting and sustaining vital community services in what continues to be a challenging environment for the community and voluntary sector.
The merger process has been supported by the National Lottery Community Fund, the Department of Finance and Development Trusts NI, allowing both organisations to plan carefully for the future.
Health for Life brings services together under one name, creating a more connected organisation and making it easier for people to access support. It also represents an exciting opportunity to further develop services and respond to changing needs.
Each week, thousands of people engage with services across both organisations, including children and young people, families, adults and older people. This development is focused on ensuring that support continues to be available now and into the future.
Health for Life will deliver a wide range of community-based services locally, across the North West and further afield, working alongside communities and partners to support health and wellbeing, address inequalities and strengthen community health services.
