Structure of the Newtownabbey Initiative
“Energising Communities” targeted six wards of high deprivation within the Newtownabbey area, based on the Noble Indices of Deprivation. The areas targeted were: Anderson’s Park, Doagh; Ballyhenry Ward; Cloughfern Ward; Kelburn Park, Doagh; Monkstown Ward and Rostulla Ward.
To understand the problems and needs within the six wards, CVNI carried out 1200 household surveys. The survey identified issues under the following headings: Environment, Community, Health, Education, and Youth. To build up a profile of respondents, questions were also asked regarding age, gender and employment status.
The results of the surveys were presented at conferences held in each of the areas. These were well supported by Statutory Agencies, who attended to respond to some of the issues discussed. Agencies in attendance included the PSNI, Housing Executive, North East Education Library Board and the Health Trust.
A series of focus group meetings were held with existing Community Groups in each of the areas to further discuss issues and identify possible solutions. These were also attended by representatives from Statutory Agencies and many local issues were resolved or are currently being investigated.
‘Energising Communities’ offered a programme of training events for each of the groups. Training aimed at the sustainability of the Groups and the development of individuals included, Group Management, Dealing with Conflict and Basic IT skills.
Site Visits
Residents were given the opportunity to attend a series of site visits to successful community projects outside their area. The visits gave people the opportunity to discuss issues with other groups who have faced similar problems. The visits also demonstrated community environmental improvements, showcasing what is achievable with limited resources. These visits included CVNI’s tree nursery and wildflower nursery, the Victoria Day Centre, and St Malachy’s Primary School in Belfast.
Practical Projects
“Energising Communities” offered funding for a practical project in each of the six areas. Potential projects ranged from environmental improvement to community safety initiatives. CVNI worked with community groups and local residents from each of the wards, identifying possible projects. Completed projects were proposed through the community consultation process and were supported by the local community.
Final Conference
To close the Initiative, a final conference was held to summarise the different elements of the project. The Conference was open to all residents and Statutory Agencies with over a thousand invites sent to households in the area. CVNI presented the highlights from the projects and thanked all those who contributed to the success of ‘Energising Communities’.
Overall, ‘Energising Communities’ was a successful Initiative. The community networks in the six wards have become broader and stronger, and projects have been well received in each of the areas. CVNI is contributing to support groups in the area. We will continue to work with give assistance on sourcing funding and providing advice and information.
For further information, contact Helen Tomb at Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland, Beech House, 159 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 0BP
Tel: (028) 9064 5169
Fax: (028) 9064 4409
Project funded by the EU programme for Peace and Reconciliation (PEACE II) in Northern Ireland and the Border region, administered by Armagh and District Local Strategy Partnership.