Derry comedian Max Roddy turns viral success into fundraising drive for addiction service

Derry comedian Max Roddy, who has been sober since August 2023, is raising funds for Northlands, a treatment center recently affected by funding cuts. Northlands, celebrating its 50th anniversary, had its annual core funding withdrawn by the Department of Health, which also failed to submit a business case for a previously allocated million pounds from the ‘New Decade, New Approach’ agreement in January 2020.

Roddy has credited his sobriety with reviving his comedy career. He has performed at various venues, including the Millennium Forum and the Hot Water Comedy Club in Liverpool, and has upcoming shows in Belfast and an elaborate Christmas special on December 12.

After learning of Northlands’ funding issues, Roddy posted a video expressing his concerns, which gained significant attention. This led to initiatives like ‘Stand Up for Northlands,’ a fundraising event he organized with fellow comedians. So far, they’ve raised £6,000 through this and other fundraising activities, including football matches and a charity golf event.

The stand-up comedy night is scheduled for November 22 at St Columb’s Hall, featuring top comedians performing for free to support Northlands.

• Why it matters: The initiative highlights the impact of community support for addiction treatment services, emphasizing the necessity for consistent funding in mental health resources.
• Business implications include increased awareness of local service funding issues and potential collaboration opportunities between entertainers and health organizations.

• The latest: $6,000 has been raised so far through various fundraisers, with a major comedy night planned for November 22.