BCIL Celebrates with Local Champions and Co-founder Gerry Murray
On Friday, July 25th, Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL) proudly took part in the official launch of You First, a peer-led mental health café based in St. Brigid’s Community Centre, Church Road, Blanchardstown. Although You First has been operating quietly for the past two years, this event marked its formal introduction to the wider community, aiming to raise awareness and reach even more people who may benefit from its unique approach to mental health support.
Councillor Mary McCamley (Dublin West – Blanchardstown-Mulhuddart) officially opened the event, cutting the ribbon in front of a warm gathering of guests, volunteers, and supporters. Tea, coffee, conversation, and heartfelt speeches filled the café’s welcoming space.
“We are mental health warriors doing it for ourselves,” the You First team shared. “We laugh, we cry, we feel unwell, we feel well—but most of all, we are never alone again.”
The café was co-founded by BCIL board member and long-time mental health activist Gerry Murray, who has played a central role in shaping the project since its inception. Earlier in an interview with the Disability Matters Gerry describe how the idea became a living, thriving support network.
“What started as a dream—a place where people could connect without fear or formality—has become a real anchor of support,” Gerry reflected. “We began with just four people. Now we welcome more than 30 regularly. This isn’t just a café—it’s a community.”
You First now runs on Monday mornings (10:00–13:00) and Monday and Wednesday evenings (18:00–21:00). The café is a safe, informal drop-in space for anyone affected by mental health challenges—whether they’re waiting for services, feeling isolated, or looking for peer support.
At the heart of this initiative is WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan), an internationally recognised, peer-led programme that empowers individuals to take control of their mental health. Many of You First‘s volunteers are trained WRAP facilitators, and several took part in the recent WRAP Level 2 graduation ceremony held just before the launch.
WRAP programmes take place at Blanchardstown Hospital and the Recovery Hub on North Circular Road, welcoming anyone free of charge. For many, WRAP opens the door from silence to self-expression—and many go on to support others on their journey.
Gerry Murray highlighted the grassroots nature of You First:
“Everything here is voluntary. We’re not waiting for perfect conditions—we’re just doing it because the need is real, and the time is now.”
As awareness of the café grows, the You First team continues to extend an open invitation to all: come for a cuppa, stay for the conversation, and know that you are not alone.
Want to learn more or get involved?
📍 Drop by: St. Brigid’s Community Centre, Church Road, Blanchardstown
📩 Facebook: You First Mental Health Café
🌱 Learn about WRAP: copelandcenter.com/wrap
🟢 Shine’s Green Ribbon Campaign: shine.ie
📹 Interview Disability Matters: https://youtu.be/DqCxTnPqHec
