About Us
MAST has developed from the victims support group MVG (Mourne Victims Group) which was created to address the needs of relatives who lost loved ones or those who have been injured as a result of "The Troubles". We are an innocent victims/survivors group made up principally of families of those who were murdered or injured in the Kingdom of Mourne and accross Ulster.
As MAST develops through both the financial support of our funders and the invaluable support of our members and friends we have found our group growing all the time. We have over 200 members across the world, all with connections back to Mourne.
Why now?
In 1994 with the introduction of the "Republican Ceasefire" the needs of the Innocent Victims of terrorism were yet again placed on the back burner. However in 1998 the government, through the Belfast agreement, eventually decided to offer some funding and help to previously ignored families. At the same time the definition of the word "Victim" has been tarnished to enable those perpetrators of terrorist violence to claim the status of being a "victim".
We in MAST do not accept this.
The aim of MAST is to provide help, guidance and support to members and their families in a safe space whilst at the same time influence decision makers within local and national government. We continue to seek justice for our loved ones, murdered by Republican terrorists, in order that one day the murderers will be held accountable for their crimes.
Our Purpose
MAST aims to provide a supportive and caring service to those who have been bereaved or injured physically or psychologically by the last 50 years of republican terrorism.
Services
MAST work alongside our funders, VSS, to provide support to our members in a variety of ways, staff regularly complete training and undergo supervision with QE5, we have links to the Regional Trauma Network to support individuals in practical health matters, SEFF are a partner group that enable us to offer advocacy and health & wellbeing opportunities and other local groups such as the men's shed for Veterans, the local authorities, artists and services.
Drop In
Members are welcome to call into the office for support, advice, help with paperwork or just a friendly chat.
Group Meetings
Regular Group Meetings such as the Ladies Wednesday Group where all MAST ladies are welcome to join together weekly for a coffee and craft. The Harbour Lunch Group is for all members over 65 and it meets monthly for a hot meal. Both meetings offer an opportunity to learn new skills, join in friendship for mutual support and alleviate loneliness.
Signposting
MAST work alongside partner groups that can provide appropriate support e.g. counselling services, welfare support, complimentary therapies etc. where needed.
Social Events
Social Events that enable members to meet in a safe environment, among those with shared experiences to provide opportunities to learn, visit educational or historical points of interest or simply to meet and enjoy company among friends.
Befriending Service
Our Befriending Service is in place for members who are socially isolated and unable to attend MAST events. Our befrienders are trained to support socially and provide a listening ear and friendship to any members in need of company.
Classes
We host an annual class for personal or professional development which in the past have included computer skills, dance, cookery, art therapy, pottery etc.
Remembrance
Throughout the year MAST representatives regularly attend remembrance events locally and nationally and are involved in planning and speaking at many memorial events.
Transgenerational
Family is at the centre of our focus, suppoorting families in their loss and encouraging engagement and the sharing of stories with the next generation. We host a few transgenerational events within our annual programme including a summer scheme for members' children and grandchildren.
Fundraising
MAST and MAST members regularly commit to donating to other charities such as the local hospice, Christmas Gift projects and other local charities while also working on our own fundraising to boost our own budget with events such as car boot sales, quiz nights etc.