Northern Ireland

West Belfast GAA club releases video encouraging anyone feeling isolated or scared during lock-down to reach out for help

Dr Peter Murphy, who is a member of O'Donovan Rossa GAC, features in a video made by the club which encourages anyone feeling isolated or scared during lock-down to reach out for help
Dr Peter Murphy, who is a member of O'Donovan Rossa GAC, features in a video made by the club which encourages anyone feeling isolated or scared during lock-down to reach out for help

A west Belfast GAA club has released a moving video encouraging anyone feeling isolated or scared during the lock-down to reach out for help.

The video by O'Donovan Rossa GAC features an introduction by GP Peter Murphy, who is also a member of the club.

The north and west Belfast doctor, who is working on the front line in the fight against coronavirus, says he believes people can "get through this and become stronger at the end".

The medic, who is working at Antrim Area Hospital and at the Covid-19 centre at Beech Hall in Andersonstown, tells people it is ok to feel "scared" and "frustrated" encouraging them to reach out for help if needed.

The video then goes on to feature members of O'Donovan Rossa GAC singing `Lean on me' from their living rooms and gardens. Some members play instruments while other use hurls as microphones.

Speaking on the video Peter Murphy said the club is doing "all we can" to send out a clear message to those in the community who may be feeling lonely, frustrated and isolated, who feel they "can't reach out for help".

"Maybe it's because pride is in the way and this is understandable but I know that it's possible for us as a community to come together and get through this and become stronger at the end," he said.

"You wouldn't be human if you weren't scared at the moment and if you weren't frustrated and if you weren't worried, it's normal to feel that way".

Dr Murphy added: "Whether your role is social distancing, whether it is self isolating because you are ill or whether it's just shielding because you are vulnerable and a higher risk, your role is just as important as my role in this invisible war where the enemy can not be seen.

"You can lean on me and you can rely on me and you can ask for help along with everybody who has taken part in this video. Everybody is part of the extended Rossa family and the GAA family".