Four Irish charities recognised for community impact in Movement for Good awards

Four Irish charities have been recognised for their vital work in local communities, from rescuing animals to supporting mental health and youth development.  Meath’s Last Hope Animal Charity, Teac Tom based in Kilkenny and Laois, Dublin Youth Theatre (DYT), and Pancreatic Cancer Ireland have each received €1,000 through the Movement for Good Awards, a charitable giving programme from the Benefact Group, parent company of specialist insurer Ecclesiastical Insurance Ireland.

The Awards, now in their sixth year, are part of a wider initiative donating over €1 million to charities across Ireland and the UK in 2025. Nominations were open to the public, who voted in support of these four charities.

Each charity is being recognised for its unique and meaningful contribution to life in Ireland:

Last Hope Animal Charity (Meath) is a voluntary foster-based group dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming domestic animals. The charity recently launched a stray cat neutering scheme to address rising numbers of unneutered strays.

Teac Tom (Kilkenny and Laois) is a mental health and suicide bereavement support organisation offering immediate, affordable services. Its work is sustained through the generosity of individuals and community support.

Dublin Youth Theatre (Dublin) is a creative space for young people to explore and express themselves through theatre, offering inclusive opportunities from high-profile productions to supportive first performances.

Pancreatic Cancer Ireland is a national charity raising awareness and offering support to those affected by pancreatic cancer, while advocating for improved outcomes and greater public understanding.

David Lane, Managing Director of Ecclesiastical Insurance Ireland, said: "These four charities are making a tangible difference in people’s lives and in the wellbeing of communities across Ireland. Whether it’s promoting animal welfare, supporting people in crisis, or giving young creatives a platform, we’re proud to help them continue their important work through the Movement for Good Awards."

The charities expressed gratitude for the funding and shared how it will help their work:

Last Hope Animal Charity said: “We are truly grateful to have received this funding. The €1,000 grant will support our stray cat neutering scheme, which offers members of the public the chance to get stray cats neutered with our vets at a reduced cost. We really appreciate the award and what it enables us to do.”

Teac Tom commented: “Our mission as a community and voluntary organisation is to provide affordable and immediate services to help those struggling with their mental health or who have been bereaved by suicide. Teac Tom receives no government funding to provide these vital services, and without the generosity and support of individuals, businesses and the wider community, including the Benefact Group and Movement for Good, we would not be able to keep our doors open.”

Dublin Youth Theatre “Dublin Youth Theatre is a vibrant youth theatre, dedicated to nurturing young Dubliners aged 14-22 in their social, personal and creative development, through engaging in practical theatre experience. This €1000 grant will allow us to continue to champion inclusion and diversity, creating a safe and welcoming environment where young people are empowered to connect and express themselves freely”.

For more information on how to support the Movement for Good Awards, or to nominate a

cause, visit www.movementforgood.com.