Former residents of Ireland's notoriously cruel mother and baby homes have been urged to come forward from the North East's large Irish population for support. 

Fréa Renewing Roots, a charity supporting Former Residents of Ireland’s Mother and Baby and County Home institutions now living in the north of England, are delivering information sessions on the Irish Government Action Plan across the north of England, and will be visiting Tyneside Irish Centre on Thursday, October 3.  

Ireland’s Mother and Baby and County Home institutions have become notorious after the discovery of the remains of 796 children at the St Mary's Mother and Baby Institutions in Tuam, County Galway in 2014.

Following this disturbing finding, the Irish Government launched a Commission of Investigation into the running of Mother and Baby and County Homes, as well as the wider role of the Irish state. 

Fréa Renewing Roots have appealed for any former residents to get in touch for assistance. 

They can support former residents with applications to the Irish Government’s Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme, as well as help accessing birth and early life records, tracing service, health and counselling services, local services and community events.

The Irish Government estimates that up to 40 per cent of the 38,000 former residents eligible to apply for damages payment now reside in the UK.

On Thursday, October 3, Fréa Renewing Roots will visit Tyneside Irish Centre’s regular Thursday Club, followed by an evening event at 6.30 pm for former residents, family members and professionals. Tickets are free but booking is encouraged. Refreshments will be available from 6 pm.

Patrick Rodgers, regional manager for Fréa Renewing Roots, said, “Former ‘Residents of Ireland’s Mother and Baby and County Homes may be entitled to a General Payment, a Work-Related Payment and Health Support Payment, depending on circumstances.

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"However, accessing that support can feel overwhelming. We’re travelling around Irish communities in the north of England to raise awareness and explain how Fréa Renewing Roots can help - and it all begins with a confidential and supportive chat.”

More information, including a list of payments and eligible homes, is available at www.frea.org.uk.

Free tickets for information sessions can be booked via Eventbrite by searching ‘Fréa Renewing Roots’, or by contacting Patrick (07432 138682) or Natalie (07849 835841).