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Information and Updates
From Denise Wright - Wednesday 5th January 2011
Part-Time Degree in Community Development, University of Ulster - Magee Campus - Through the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) route, anyone who has several years of experience in the community or voluntary sector could gain direct entry to the 2nd year of the part-time BSc (Hons) Community Development course. The course costs £105 and provides participants with:
- The opportunity to convert community/voluntary experiential learning into University credits;
- Skills in critical reflection and reflective practice;
- Guidance on building a portfolio of experience-based learning, leading to direct entry into the second year of the BSc Hons Community course (Portfolio support and accreditation costs an additional £220).
For further details and an application form, please contact Sharon Adams, Lifelong Learning, University of Ulster, Jordanstown Campus, Room 17C21, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim BT37 0QB - Tel: 028 9036 6680; Fax: 028 9036 6060; Email: lifelonglearning@ulster.ac.uk. Please click here to view/download a flyer (Word .doc, 109Kb.).
From Denise Wright - Tuesday 4th January 2011
Plenary Session for Formation of the South Belfast Primary Care Partnership (PCP) - The Health and Social Care Board has announced that, to instigate the formation of the South Belfast Primary Care Partnership (PCP) - to harness the talents and resources of statutory, voluntary and community service providers, together with users and carers in South Belfast - the PCP plenary session will take place on Wednesday 19th January 2011 at 12.30pm in Malone House, Malone Road, Belfast BT9 5PB. Lunch will be available from 12.30pm and the session will commence at 1.00pm.
It is proposed that South Belfast will act as a ‘pathfinder’ PCP for Belfast and, further, will form a local network of service providers, professionals, users and carers - charged with the development of proposals, in line with the strategic guidance of the Belfast Local Commissioning Group, with the intention of, eventually, providing a comprehensive range of health and social services for the local population in a timely, local and cost-effective manner. Please click here to view/download an invitation letter from Dr George O’Neill (Chair, Belfast Local Commissioning Group), an ‘Outline Description’ and the Booking Form (Word .doc, 58Kb.). Please click here to download/view a flyer (Word .doc, 34.5Kb.).
The completed booking form should be returned, by Thursday 13th January 2011, to Jean Frizzell, Belfast LCG, 12-22 Linenhall Street, Belfast BT2 2BS - Tel: 028 9032 1313 (ext. 2313); Fax: 028 9055 3616; Email: jean.frizzell@hscni.net.
From Stephanie Mitchell - Saturday 1st January 2011
Belfast Friendship Club New Year Party - The Belfast Friendship Club is holding a New Year Party on Saturday 8th January 2011 at the Chinese Welfare Association, 1 Stranmillis Embankment, Belfast BT7 1GB (new, white building beside Ormeau Bridge) - from 5.00pm to 9.00pm. All Belfast Friendship Club members, friends and supporters are most welcome.
Enjoy music, dancing and party games (all ideas welcome)! Please bring some kind of sweet course/dessert (home made?) and/or drinks. Savoury food, tea and coffee will be provided.
From EGSA - Tuesday 21st December 2010
Merry Christmas from EGSA 2010 - Please click here (.jpeg image, 176Kb.) to view Christmas Greetings from EGSA.
From Eva Grosman, Unite Against Hate - Sunday 19th December 2010
Unite Against Hate E-News - Unite Against Hate E-News ‘E-Unite’ (Issue 67/12): Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year from the Unite against Hate Team, please click here to view (.jpeg image, 149Kb.). The next issue of ‘E-Unite’ will be available on Monday 10th January 2011.
From Denise Wright - Friday 17th December 2010
Belfast Friendship Club Christmas Party: Cancellation - Due to the bad weather, the Belfast Friendship Club Christmas Party, which was to have been held on the evening of Saturday 18th December 2010, has now been cancelled.
From Denise Wright - Friday 17th December 2010
Essay and Photography Competition (BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2010) - The closing date for the Afro-Community Support Organisation's "Images and Messages" Competitions has been extended to Friday 28th January 2011. The competition is open to all young people aged 11 - 14 years and living in Northern Ireland. First prize, in each competition, is a laptop computer, with two runners up receiving digital cameras. (Information about the Essay and Poster Competitions was sent to all post-primary schools in Northern Ireland at the end of September 2010.)
All submissions must be sent electronically to essay_competition@acsoni.org or posted to ACSONI Competition, First Floor, 9 Lower Crescent, Belfast BT7 1NR. Please click here to view/download the Essay and Picture Competition Information Sheets (.pdf format, 222Kb.). Please click here to view/download the letter to teachers (.pdf format, 340Kb.).
From NICVA - Thursday 16th December 2010
Smart Solutions Campaign: Bulletin Five - 15 December 2010 - Draft Budget - Initial Analysis | Budget Consultation details | Live issues for the economy | Latest from the campaign | Latest case studies - Please click here to view the latest issue on line.
Wednesday 15th December 2010
Northern Ireland's Draft Budget 2010: Public Consultation - The Northern Ireland Executive has today presented its draft Budget for public consultation. This follows the UK’s Spending Review announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 20th October 2010. The deadline for responses to the consultation is Wednesday 9th February 2011. Click this link to view/download the draft budget main consultation document (.pdf format, 292Kb.). Click this link to view/download the Finance Minister's statement to the Assembly (.pdf format, 2.16Mb.). Website Link nidirect.
From BCDA - Wednesday 15th December 2010
The Wider Circle Winter Newsletter - Please click here to view/download The Wider Circle Winter Newsletter (.pdf format, 515Kb.). The Wider Circle is running a ‘Steps to Healing’ programme during January 2011. This gentle programme is free-of-charge and designed to help people who have suffered from trauma. The next programme will begin in Belfast on Monday, 17th January 2011 (5pm-7pm) and will be delivered for 10 weeks. If you know anyone who would benefit from participating in the programme please pass this information to them. Spaces on the programme are limited - so people are advised to get in touch as soon as possible. For further information, please contact Nicole Atkinson - Tel: 028 9069 3430; email: info@widercircle.org. Website Link.
From Denise Wright - Tuesday 14th December 2010
Groundwork Northern Ireland: 1-Day Grow Fruit & Vegetables Training Sessions - Groundwork NI has announced a number of 1-day training sessions for people who are keen to start growing their own fruit and vegetables - in a backyard, a garden or an allotment, etc. The sessions are aimed at complete novices or those who have very little experience in growing fruit and vegetables, and is open to individuals, community groups and organisations
There is a limit of 15 places on each course and the cost is £50 per person. The course fee includes 1-day of training, tea/coffee and lunch, a 36-page colour booklet “Grow Our Own – A Beginners Guide to Growing Fruit & Vegetables” and a container planted up with seeds or seedlings to enable participants to start their very own garden when they return home.
Course Dates: Saturday 15th January 2011; Saturday 29th January 2011; Saturday 19th February 2011; Saturday 5th March 2011; Saturday 26th March 2011. Click here to register online. For further information (or to book), please contact David Carver, Email: davidcarver@groundworkni.co.uk; Tel: 028 9074 9494
From Denise Wright - Tuesday 14th December 2010
The People’s History Initiative: Lecture - The Ulster People’s College’s ‘People’s History Initiative’ has issued an invitation to attend a lecture: ‘‘Change Without Change: the Second World War and the Welfare State in Northern Ireland’ - being delivered, by Dr. Éamon Phoenix - historian, journalist and lecturer - on Monday 20th December 2010 in the Dublin Suite, Europa Hotel, Great Victoria Street, Belfast. The lecture commences at 10.00am and refreshments will be served at the end (the event should be finished by 1.00pm).
This lecture series enjoys great popularity - so, places are limited. Please, as soon as possible, register your name and telephone number at the College: Tel: 028 9033 0131 or email your name and contact details to Karen McCartney at kmccartney@upclearn.org. Please click here to view/download the invitation (.pdf format, 75.1Kb.).
From Eva Grosman, Unite Against Hate - Sunday 12th December 2010
Unite Against Hate E-News - Unite Against Hate E-News ‘E-Unite’ (Issue 66/12) has been released. News: Challenge Hate Crime | The Thin End of the Wedge Awards Ceremony | Belfast Divercity Project Course. Events: Black Santa Sit out Launch | 16 December | Belfast Cathedral; Rural Enabler Programme Launch | 16 December | Poyntzpass; InSpace Christmas Party | 18 December | LGBT Centre, Waring Street. Please click here to view (.htm, 13.4Kb.).
From Marnie Kennedy - Thursday 9th December 2010
Free Children’s Christmas Event - A nativity play for children – ‘And the Wile Wise Men Came’ will be performed in Westbourne Presbyterian Church. 149a Newtownards Road, Belfast (opposite Pitt Park) on Saturday 11th December 2010. There are three performances at 10 am, 11.30 am and 2 pm. The interactive play was written by Dan Gordon and is being performed by professional actors. The play lasts for approximately 45 minutes and would be suitable as a family outing or children’s organisation event. Admission is free - but booking is essential. Tickets may be booked by telephoning 028 9046 0295. Please click here to view/download the poster (.pdf format, 48.2Kb.).
From Susan Russam - Tuesday 7th December 2010
Assembly Gives Seal of Approval to Commissioner for Older People - [NIA Press Release, 7th December 2010] Plans to appoint a Commissioner for Older People received the seal of approval today as it passed its final stage in the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Commissioner for Older People Bill has been extensively reviewed by the Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister (OFMDFM). Following the Committee’s work on the Bill during the Committee Stage the Department for the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister suggested a number of amendments which the Committee supported.
Committee Chairperson, Tom Elliott, MLA said: “The appointment of a Commissioner for Older People will be of great significance. The Committee has taken much interest in this Bill and is pleased to see the Bill receive the support of the Assembly.
“The Committee took evidence from many different interested groups and gave a lot of consideration to what roles and powers the Commissioner should have. The Committee is content that the Commissioner will have the appropriate powers to be able to help tackle the many issues facing older people today.” For further information, contact Jennifer Pleavin, Communications Officer, Northern Ireland Assembly - Tel: 028 9052 1606; Email: jennifer.pleavin@niassembly.gov.uk.
From Denise Wright - Tuesday 7th December 2010
Free Pilot Training Course on Awareness-Raising: BME Children & Young People - NCB Northern Ireland and Youthnet have arranged to deliver a free pilot training course which aims to provide participants with a greater awareness of issues faced by children and young people from BME communities living in Northern Ireland. The course will take place on Thursday 27th January 2011 (time to be confirmed) at NCB NI, Albany House, 73-75 Great Victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7AF (next door to the Gingerroot Indian restaurant). Sandwiches, tea and coffee will be provided. Anyone interested in attending should please contact Claire Adrain at - Email: cadrain@ncb.org.uk; Tel: 028 9089 1730. Please click here to view/download the course flyer (.pdf format, 54.6Kb.).
Monday 6th December 2010
Number of Visitors to DPCF Website Passes the ½ Million Mark - The number of visitors to Donegall Pass Community Forum’s website exceeded ½ Million (500,040 verified visitors) on Saturday 4th December 2010. The site has had visitors from 114 countries - most frequently from the U.K., Australia, Canada, U.S.A., India, Germany, Netherlands, Republic of Ireland, Russia and Brazil. Please click here to view/download a statistical summary (.pdf format, 32.9Kb.).
From Eva Grosman, Unite Against Hate - Sunday 5th December 2010
Unite Against Hate E-News - Unite Against Hate E-News ‘E-Unite’ (Issue 65/12) has been released. News: Christmas Family Appeal | LGBT Community Christmas Carol Service | The Belfast Migrant Centre. Events: Living in Belfast Project | 14 December 2010 | Belfast City Hall; Challenge Hate Crime | 14 December | Belfast; The Thin End of the Wedge Awards Ceremony | 17 December | Stormont. Please click here to view (.htm, 10.5Kb.).
From DoJ, via Dympna McGlade - Friday 3rd December 2010
Press Release: “Ford underlines commitment to remove barriers of division” - Speaking at the Belfast Interface Project’s Annual General Meeting, today, marking its 10th Anniversary, the Justice Minister, David Ford, pledged to work with communities who want to remove interface barriers. David Ford said that removing the barriers which divide communities is essential if Northern Ireland is to build a new shared future. Please click here to view/download the press release (.pdf format, 23.4Kb.). BIP Website Link. Department of Justice Website Link.
From GVRT - Friday 3rd December 2010
Invitations: ‘Let’s Talk’ Panel Discussion; ‘Colours of Christmas’ Celebration - The Greater Village Regeneration Trust (GVRT) has issued invitations to two events: a ‘Let’s Talk’ Panel Discussion on the theme, “Normalising Policing: Moving on from the Troubles” - and a ‘Colours of Christmas’ Multi-Cultural Christmas Celebration. Both events are to be held at the Richview Regeneration Centre (1st Floor), 339-341 Donegall Road, Belfast BT12 6FQ on Friday 10th December 2010 and Saturday 11th December 2010, respectively.
The ‘Let’s Talk’ Panel Discussion commences at 1.00pm and a free buffet lunch will be provided. The panel includes: Sammy Douglas (independent Chairperson), Colin Halliday, Alex Maskey (Sinn Féin Policing Board member), Malachi O’Doherty, Martin Snodden and Jimmy Spratt (DUP Policing Board member). The ‘Colours of Christmas’ Multi-Cultural Christmas Celebration (“Free Fun For All The Family”) starts at 2.00pm and finishes around 4.00pm.
To view/download the ‘Let’s Talk’ Panel Discussion poster, please click here (.jpeg image, 142Kb.); to view/download the ‘Colours of Christmas’ poster, please click here (.jpeg image, 133Kb.)
From Marnie Kennedy, BIP - Thursday 2nd December 2010
Tree of Reflection Vigil - The East Belfast Survivors of Suicide (SOS) support group is staging its annual “tree of reflection vigil” at Willowfield Parish Church, 290-296 Woodstock Road, Belfast BT6 9DN on Thursday 9th December, 7pm-8pm.
The event offers Families Bereaved Through Suicide the opportunity to come together around the Christmas tree at this special time of the year to reflect on their lost loved ones. Families will be given the opportunity to place a suicide awareness ribbon on the huge Christmas tree which will stand outside the church on the Woodstock road throughout the festive period in tribute to those who have gone before us. Candles will also be available to light in someone’s memory.
Special guest, DJ George Jones, will be in attendance to say a few words and turn on the Christmas lights. For further information, or answers to any queries, please contact Chris Deconink or Trisha McQueen at EBCDA on 028 9045 1512. This event is open to families from all across Northern Ireland. Please click here to view/download the associated flyer (.pdf format, 198Kb.).
From EGSA - Thursday 2nd December 2010
Financial Capability Survey - Please click here (.html, 5.93Kb.) to view a request from EGSA to complete a very short (8 multiple choice questions) on-line survey in relation to Financial Capability. The survey is a part of research being undertaken for the Money for Life programme, supported by Lloyds Banking Group and delivered in NI by EGSA and is aimed at organisations who support anyone (adults and young people) involved in learning (FE, training, community-based).
From Eva Grosman, Unite Against Hate - Sunday 28th November 2010
Unite Against Hate E-News - Unite Against Hate E-News ‘E-Unite’ (Issue 64/11) has been released. News: ‘Toast of Holywood’ – Holywood YOUnite Festival Awards Ceremony | Early Years Programme Helping to Tackle Sectarianism | Blood, Sweat & Volunteers. Events: Traveller Focus Week Launch | 29 November – 3 December | Northern Ireland; UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities | 1 December 2010 | Hilton Hotel, Templepatrick; The Belfast Migrant Centre | 8 December | Ascot House, Belfast; Christmas Event | 10 December | St. Vincent de Paul Parochial Hall, Ligoniel. Please click here to view (.htm, 11.2Kb.).
From Denise Wright - Friday 26th November 2010
The People’s History Initiative: Upcoming Lectures - The Ulster People’s College’s ‘People’s History Initiative’ has issued an invitation to attend two lectures: ‘The Labour and Trade Union Traditions in Ireland’ and ‘Change Without Change: the Second World War and the Welfare State in Northern Ireland’ - being delivered, by Dr. Éamon Phoenix historian, journalist and lecturer, on Friday 3rd December 2010 and Monday 20th December 2010, respectively, in the Dublin Suite, Europa Hotel, Great Victoria Street, Belfast. The lectures commence at 10.00am and refreshments will be served at the end (each event should be finished by 1.00pm).
This lecture series enjoys great popularity - so, places are limited. Please, as soon as possible, register your name and telephone number at the College: Tel: 028 9033 0131 or email your name and contact details to Karen McCartney at kmccartney@upclearn.org. Please click here to view/download the invitation (.pdf format, 78.4Kb.).
From Denise Wright - Thursday 25th November 2010
Launch Invitation: Report on Migrant Health and Wellbeing in Belfast - The Belfast Health Development Unit has issued an invitation to the Launch of ‘A Report on Migrant Health and Wellbeing in Belfast’ - on Friday 10th December 2010, 10.30am – 12.00noon, at the Chinese Resource Centre, 1 Stranmillis Embankment, Belfast BT7 1GB. Refreshments will be served from 10am in the Main Hall. RSVPs to martina.smyth@bhdu.org or Tel: 028 9050 2073. Please click here to view the invitation (jpeg image, 159Kb.).
From Maeve McKeag - Thursday 25th November 2010
Invitation: Celebration of Achievement for the Living in Belfast Project - GEMS NI has issued an invitation to a ‘Celebration of Achievement for the Living in Belfast Project’ at Belfast City Hall (tea, coffee and mince pies provided) on Tuesday 14th December 2010, 10.00am to 11.30am. Attendees at the event will hear about the project from the participants and the trainers. RSVPs, please, to jackie.hawkins@gemsni.org.uk or Tel: 028 9033 2313 - by Tuesday 7th December 2010. Please click here to view the invitation (jpeg image, 133Kb.).
From Dawn Lord, WEA - Thursday 25th November 2010
Free Community Group Management Course - WEA - NI is offering a free Community Group Management Course (for men only) which is being delivered on Tuesdays, 7.00pm - 9.0pm - commencing Tuesday 11th January 2011 and finishing Tuesday 15th March 2011 - at East Belfast Mission, 239 Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 1AF. The course, accredited by the Open College Network, will allow participants to achieve a greater level of skill in community and voluntary work. Aimed at people who want to play a more active role in the management, running and development of community groups - this course aims to provide an introduction to management committee skills, roles and functions of a committee, roles and responsibilities of committee members, running meetings and project planning, etc. For further information and/or to confirm attendance on the course, please email Dawn Lord at dawn.lord@wea-ni.com.
From Magdalena Lupsan - Tuesday 23rd November 2010
Romanian National Day 2010 - Everyone is cordially invited to attend the celebration of Romania’s National Day at Shaftesbury Community and Recreation Centre, 97 Balfour Avenue, Belfast BT7 2EW - on Saturday 27th November 2010, 7.00pm - 9.00pm. Enjoy an evening of Romanian culture, food and entertainment! Embassy Link.
From Susan Russam - Monday 22nd November 2010
Publication: A Picture of Ageing Research - The Centre for Ageing Research and Development in Ireland (CARDI) has launched a new publication entitled “A Picture of Ageing Research”. The publication provides a snapshot of major academic research into ageing currently being undertaken across the island of Ireland.
With entries from 15 of the leading academic institutions and an overview of some of the major collaborative research projects currently underway, it illustrates the breadth and quality of work by researchers in a wide range of disciplines relating to ageing in Ireland, North and South, and the significant role research has in planning for all our futures. Please click here to view/download the publication (.pdf format, 677Kb.). Website Link.
From EGSA - Monday 22nd November 2010
Plain English Training: Places Still Available - [EGSA e-briefing] Want to learn how to make your organisation's written material clear and easy to understand? EGSA's ‘Keep It Clear’ training session aims to raise awareness of plain English techniques and the importance of reaching as wide an audience as possible. The introductory level course is aimed at anyone whose work (paid or voluntary) involves writing regularly. This can include letters, flyers, reports, booklets, factsheets and PowerPoint presentations. For further information, please click here to view/download the EGSA e-briefing (.html, 5.92Kb.).
From Eva Grosman, Unite Against Hate - Sunday 21st November 2010
Unite Against Hate E-News - Unite Against Hate E-News ‘E-Unite’ (Issue 63/11) has been released. News: Race Diversity Business Awards of Excellence 2010 | Traveller Focus Week | Rural Enabler Programme. Events: YOUnite Festival | 19 – 27 November | Holywood; Minority Ethnic Arts Sectoral Meetings | 24 November – NICVA, Belfast | 1 December – The Alley Arts Centre, Strabane; RENT – A Fundraiser for World Aids Day | 1 December | Mandela Hall, Belfast. Please click here to view (.htm, 12.2Kb.).
From Denise Wright - Friday 19th November 2010
ACSONI Development Education Programme - E-Bulletin Update - The Afro-Community Support Organisation Northern Ireland (ACSONI) has issued the first edition of the EU Partners’ (Africa Centre Dublin, Africa Centre Slovenia and ACSONI) e-bulletin update. The bulletin contains information about some of the activities that have taken place during the last few months on the Development Education Programme, “Images and Messages of Africa from an African Perspective”. Please click here to view/download the bulletin (.pdf format, 706Kb.). Link: ASCONI Upcoming Events.
From Marnie Kennedy, BIP - Wednesday 17th November 2010
Final Run of the New course in Equality, Diversity and Conflict Management - The Belfast Divercity Project is offering a new, free, 6-day course exploring the issues of equality, diversity and conflict management. The course is being offered as part of a wider project looking at the theme of shared organisational space. For information, please click here (.pdf format, 90.5Kb.). To view/download the course booking form, please click here (.pdf format, 54.6Kb.).
From Marnie Kennedy, BIP - Wednesday 17th November 2010
Community Tourism Workshop - Belfast Conflict Resolution Consortium (BCRC) and Fáilte Feirste Thiar have organised a ‘Workshop on community tourism, legacy of the conflict and interface communities’ to be held in the Group Space, Ulster Hall, Bedford Street, Belfast on Wednesday 24th November 2010, from 9.30am to 1.00pm. [Message text from Joe Marley]: “Belfast has been able to grow a tourist industry from the experience of the conflict, the legacy of which is most visible in interface areas. However many interface working class communities in Belfast experience tourists passing through or around their areas but do not gain anything in return.
“This workshop will explore the potential of a community tourism approach which aims to include and benefit local communities. The workshop will also examine strategies for local communities wishing to promote a community tourism agenda. The workshop should prove to be interesting, informative & useful for organisations working within interface communities.” To view/download the workshop agenda, please click here (.pdf format, 67.7Kb.).
From Project Manager, Unite Against Hate - Sunday 14th November 2010
Unite Against Hate E-News - Unite Against Hate E-News ‘E-Unite’ (Issue 62/11) has been released. News: Pansy Project NI | YOUnite Festival Holywood | Belfast Mela wins Special Achievement Award at the NI Travel and Tourism Awards | Drinks Reception to Mark Transgender Memorial Day. Events: Outburst | 12 – 20 November | Belfast; PeacePlayers Pub Quiz Fundraiser | 29 November | Benedict’s; Traveller Focus Week Launch | 29 November | St. George’s Market, Belfast. Please click here to view (.htm, 10.1Kb.).
From Marnie Kennedy, BIP - Friday 12th November 2010
Storytelling and Positive Encounter Dialogue Programme - Forthspring Inter Community Group and St Patrick’s Trian are hosting an OCN Level 2 Accredited Programme in ‘Storytelling & Positive Encounter Dialogue’, during January and February 2011, aimed at participants who wish to employ storytelling and dialogue as a way to address the legacy of the conflict and deal with the past in our society. To view/download the relevant information document, please click here (.pdf format, 34.8Kb.). Forthspring Website Link. St Patrick’s Trian Visitor Complex Website Link.
From Denise Wright - Wednesday 10th November 2010
Upcoming DIANI Events - The DIANI (Diversity In Action Northern Ireland) project has circulated some information regarding some upcoming events, including a ‘myth-busting’ seminar, a ‘Who’s Here?’ seminar and a ‘Cultural Competence – What is it and how do we achieve it?’ seminar. Please click here to view/download information on the Cultural Competence seminar (Word.doc, 502Kb.); click here to view/download information on the Myth-Busting seminar (Word.doc, 502Kb.); click here to view/download information on the Who’s Here? seminar (Word.doc, 502Kb.). Website Link.
From Denise Wright - Monday 8th November 2010
Minority Ethnic Arts Strategy Sectoral Meetings - The Arts Council of Northern Ireland has issued invitations to attend one of two Minority Ethnic Arts sectoral meetings at:
1. NICVA, 61 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast (see link for directions: www.nicva.org/content/find-us) on Wednesday 24th November 2010 at 9am. Please click here to view/download the agenda for this morning’s event (Word .doc, 133Kb.).
or
2. The Alley Arts and Conference Centre, Railway Street, Strabane (see link for directions: www.alley-theatre.com/location) on Wednesday 1st December 2010 at 10am. Please click here to view/download the agenda for this morning’s event (Word .doc, 133Kb.).
The purpose of the meetings is to discuss the development of a five year Minority Ethnic Arts Strategy. This strategy is being prepared in recognition of the priorities set out in the Arts Council’s five year strategy, ‘Creative Connections (2007-2012)’. Theme three within Creative Connections: ‘Growing Audiences and Increasing Participation’ highlights the Arts Council’s commitment to fostering the expression of cultural pluralism; building dialogue and promoting understanding, through exchanges within and between communities and their cultures.
RSVPs to Brendan Carson at bcarson@artscouncil-ni.org; Tel: 028 9038 5205. A light lunch will be provided during the 1st December event (please advise Brendan of any special requirements).
From Project Manager, Unite Against Hate - Sunday 7th November 2010
Unite Against Hate E-News - Unite Against Hate E-News ‘E-Unite’ (Issue 61/11) has been released. News: Race Equality Month | Outburst Queer Arts Festival | Good Relations Grant Fund. Events: ‘Tell us about it’ | 8 November | Belfast City Hall; Looking to the Future | 10 November | Ashfield Boys' School, East Belfast; Faces of Africa exhibition launch | 11 November | Carrickfergus Civic Centre. Please click here to view (.htm, 11.1Kb.).
From Denise Wright - Friday 5th November 2010
Young NCB NI Body Image Survey - Members of the Young NCB NI have designed an online survey form which asks some questions, of young people, about how they feel about their body image and the way that they look. The Young NCB Advisory Group is seeking as many young people as possible to complete the survey. Young people who complete the survey will have the chance to win £30-worth of Love2Shop Gift Vouchers. The YNCB NI Body Image Survey is accessible from this web page.
From EGSA - Thursday 4th November 2010
EGSA E-Briefing, November 2010 Edition - EGSA has released the November 2010 Edition of its E-Briefing. Click here to view (.htm, 74.4Kb.).
From NICVA - Thursday 4th November 2010
Smart Solutions Campaign: Bulletin Four - 4 November 2010 - “As the Northern Ireland Executive deal with the implications of the Spending Review and prepare a budget, Programme for Government and Investment Strategy for consultation, it is important that we in the voluntary and community sector continue to make our voices heard. November offers a number of opportunities for organisations to engage with political parties and elected representatives ...” Please click here to view the latest issue on line.
From the Polish Association Northern Ireland - Wednesday 3rd November 2010
PANI Newsletter - Please click here to view the latest edition of the Polish Association Northern Ireland’s newsletter (.html, 6.54Kb.). Website Link.
From Dr Duncan Morrow via Marnie Kennedy, BIP - Tuesday 2nd November 2010
CRC Response to CSI - The Community Relations Council (CRC) has finalised its response to OFMDFM’s Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration (CSI) consultation document. The comments and recommendations contained within this paper have been discussed and endorsed as CRC’s formal response at a Council meeting on Tuesday 19th October 2010. The full response and executive summary can be accessed at the following link: www.community-relations.org.uk/campaigns/csi-consultation/.
From Marnie Kennedy, BIP - Tuesday 2nd November 2010
Alcohol and Drugs Interventions: 2011-2012 to 2013-2014, Funding through the Probation Board - The aim of the Probation Board (PBNI) is to help reduce crime and the harm it does. It seeks to do so by challenging and changing the attitudes and behaviour of offenders. PBNI invites applications for financial assistance for the three years from 2011/12 to 2013/14 from organisations that can offer one-to-one counselling services to adjudicated offenders, supervised by PBNI - with priority being given to offenders who have additional requirements, as part of their statutory supervision, to undertake work focusing on substance misuse. Further information, including a detailed specification and application forms, may be obtained via the PBNI Website, www.pbni.org.uk, or by contacting Brendan McDowell, Community Development Section, PBNI Headquarters, 80-90 North Street, Belfast BT1 1LD. Tel: 028 9026 2427.
Completed application forms must be returned by 4.00pm, Friday 26th November 2010.
From Brian Mullan - Monday 1st November 2010
Analysis of Personnel Statistics for the 11 NI Departments - The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) has published an analysis of Personnel Statistics for the 11 NI Departments based on Staff in Post on 1st April 2010. The key findings are as follows:
- On 1st April 2010 there were 23,159 permanent NI Civil Servants (Full-time Equivalent, FTE) in the 11 Northern Ireland departments, representing a decrease of 352 (1.5%) in staff numbers since 1 April 2009. 22,046 (95.2%) were non-industrial staff and 1,113 (4.8%) were industrial staff.
- DSD was the largest Department in the NICS with 7,231 staff (FTE). DCAL was the smallest Department with 289 staff (FTE).
- Almost one third (30.6%) of all permanent non-industrial staff (FTE) were at Administrative Officer (AO) level, while 0.9% of all staff were at Grade 5 level and above.
- On 1st April 2010, 49.9% of staff were male and 50.1% were female.
- Of those permanent staff for whom a community background was determined, 49.8% were Protestant and 50.2% were Roman Catholic. While the difference is marginal, it is noteworthy - as it is the first time that the representation of Catholics in the 11 NI departments has exceeded that of Protestants.
- A total of 1,334 (5.5%) permanent staff had declared a disability - a slightly higher number than in the previous year (1,320).
- On 1st April 2010, there were 45 (0.2%) permanent staff from ethnic minorities.
- The average (median) salary was £20,590 (calculated on an FTE basis). One quarter of staff earned £18,728 or less, while one quarter earned £26,086 or more. Due to significant changes in the AA/AO pay scales, many of these staff have moved into higher pay bands in 2010. This has resulted in an 11.6% increase in AA/AO median pay.
- The proportion of permanent non-industrial staff who left the service during 2009/10 was 3.1% (723 staff) - a decrease from 4.2% in the previous year.
The report is available at this link (NISRA Website).
From Project Manager, Unite Against Hate - Sunday 31st October 2010
Unite Against Hate E-News - Unite Against Hate E-News ‘E-Unite’ (Issue 60/10) has been released. News: Monday, 1 November 2010 marks the start of Race Equality Month and the launch of Racism is Wrong campaign supported by Equality Commission and Unite against Hate. Register your support here. | Anti-Homophobia Week. The message of Anti-Homophobia Week (1 - 7 November 2010) will be highly visible on the streets of Northern Ireland this week. A travelling billboard will be visiting towns all over the country to spread the message that homophobia has no place in a civilised society. | Introduction to Islam in Northern Ireland. Next session of Islamic Awareness Training Course presented by the Belfast Islamic Centre in partnership with Unite against Hate will take place in Newry on 9 November 2010. | Polish and Fermanagh voices unite. A choir made up of young people from Poland and Fermanagh has united to form Voices of Cultural Harmony, a cross community project involving 15-18 year olds from Protestant and Catholic communities singing choral music alongside a Polish choir. Events: Diwali & Samhain | 6 November | Ulster Museum/Botanic Gardens; International Fans Seminar | 19 – 20 November | Ramada Hotel, Belfast; UNITE Month | November | South Eastern Regional College. Please click here to view (.htm, 10.9Kb.).
From Denise Wright - Thursday 28th October 2010
'Christmas Crime Prevention and Safety Event' - The Belfast District Policing Partnership has organised a 'Christmas Crime Prevention and Safety Event' to provide members of the public with practical advice, information and support on a range of crime prevention and safety issues - particularly related to this Christmas season. Invitations are extended to organisations and individuals to attend the City Hall on Wednesday 1st December 2010, between 10.00am and 1.00pm, where attendees may avail of advice and services from a wide range of bodies and agencies - PSNI, Fire and Rescue, NIHE, BCC, etc. Tea, coffee and mince pies will be provided throughout the event! Contact: Barry Flynn, Senior B.A., District Policing Partnership, 2nd Floor, Adelaide Exchange, 24-26 Adelaide Street, Belfast BT2 8GD. Email: flynnb@belfastcity.gov.uk; Tel: 028 9032 0202 ext 6221.
From Colm Bradley, Director, Community Places - Wednesday 20th October 2010
BCC Community Development Strategy: Workshop Report - Belfast City Council is currently holding a series of workshops/consultations to inform its Belfast City Council Community Development Strategy so that it fits with local area planning, corporate planning, civic leadership and internal organisational development work. Please click here to view/download the Report on the Belfast City Council Community Development Strategy Stakeholder Workshop, held at Malone House on Wednesday 6th October 2010 (.pdf format, 212Kb.). The next workshop is being held in Belfast Castle on Wednesday 3rd November 2010. Anyone involved in community development work, in Belfast, is encouraged to attend.
From Karen McCartney via Marnie Kennedy, BIP - Friday 15th October 2010
Free History Book Course - The Ulster People’s College’s People’s History Initiative is currently delivering a People’s History Course - centred around the telling of the story of Alexandra Park, Grove Park and the Waterworks, in the form of spoken and written memories culminating in its presentation in an exhibition or book. The course also allows participants to reflect on their findings about the past and use this in future plans for their community. This free course is delivered over 12 sessions (each session lasts for 2 hours) and is accredited at OCN Level 2.
For further information, or to reserve a place on the course, contact Karen McCartney, at the Ulster People’s College, 17a Clarence Street BT2 8DY. Tel: 028 9033 0131; Email: kmccartney@upclearn.org. Workshops are scheduled to start in Groundwork NI’s offices, 63-75 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast BT15 2GB on Monday 18th October 2010 - from 7:00pm to 9:00 pm. Please click here for further details (.pdf format, 95.1KB.).
From BMEF Network - Wednesday 6th October 2010
Feedback from CSI BMEF Network Consultation - Following a very well-attended recent discussion (Wednesday 22nd September 2010 in the Markets Community Centre) on the Programme for Cohesion Sharing and Integration, the Black, Minority Ethnic and Faith Network has circulated summary notes on the discussion, highlighting the key issues that emerged. Please click here to view/download the document (Word .doc, 40.5Kb.).
From Chris O’Halloran, BIP - Tuesday 5th October 2010
Contact Youth ‘Suicide Prevention - What Works?’ Conference - Contact Youth has issued an invitation to its ‘Suicide Prevention - What Works?’ conference - 6.30pm-9.00pm Monday 22nd November 2010 & all day Tuesday 23rd November 2010 in the Stormont Hotel, Belfast BT4 3LP. The conference will provide a perfect networking opportunity for health, education, forensic and mental health professionals. Delegates from support groups engaged in suicide prevention are particularly welcome. To view/download the flyer, please click here (.pdf format, 125Kb.). Direct Link to Conferences Information.
From Chris O’Halloran, BIP - Tuesday 5th October 2010
From A Shared Future to Cohesion, Sharing and Integration - As everyone is probably aware, the draft programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration was launched for public consultation on the 27th July and the consultation period on this important document runs until Friday 29th October 2010. The Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust recently commissioned an independent study which compares the policy commitments in the new Cohesion framework with those of its predecessor, ‘A Shared Future’. The intention is to throw light on the overall “direction of travel” in this important area of public policy.
The study, which was carried out by Professors Jennifer Todd and Joseph Ruane of the Institute of British Irish Studies at University College Dublin, draws out three main findings:
- Cohesion abandons the strategic aim of reconciliation which was at the heart of the Shared Future document.
- Cohesion treats identity and culture as given and stable entities, rather than as a process of ongoing choices made by individuals and communities which are constantly subject to changing influences.
- Cohesion proposes four different ways of organising the community relations infrastructure - all of which are weaker than the current mandate of the Community Relations Council to push forward community relations duties and look critically at the role of existing political and local organisations.
JRCT is concerned that the draft CSI policy framework may not be capable of preventing a re-sectarianisation of society in Northern Ireland. JRCT has written to relevant politicians and officials to share the research with them and also made it available to the media in Northern Ireland. JRCT is encouraging policymakers involved in the consultation process to draw more deeply on the vision, expertise and experience of the many civil society groups and organisations that are working to promote peace, equality and human rights for the people of Northern Ireland.
Please click here to view/download the document From ‘A Shared Future’ to ‘Cohesion, Sharing and Integration’, An Analysis of Northern Ireland’s Policy Framework Documents (.pdf format, 205Kb.).
From Chris O’Halloran, BIP - Friday 1st October 2010
Equality & Good Relations Debate, Report - Please click here to view/download the full Hansard report (Word .doc, 84.5Kb.) on the Equality & Good Relations debate held on Tuesday 28th September 2010 at Stormont. (The motion was defeated – Ayes 30; Noes 56.)
From Denise Wright - Monday 13th September 2010
Free English Classes - Free English classes are being held, every Wednesday, from 4.30pm to 6.30pm, at NICEM’s Offices, 3rd Floor, Ascot House, 24-31 Shaftesbury Square, Belfast BT2 7DB. Contact Aruna Djalo, email: a.djalo@nicem-interpreting.org.uk. Website Link.
From Elaine Mansfield - Wednesday 8th September 2010
Aid for Pakistan Flood Victims - The Belfast Charity Tuesday’s Child is co-ordinating a free airlift of humanitarian aid for the flood victims of Pakistan. The charity needs the following items as a priority: baby food, baby formula milk, baby feeding bottles, nappies, ready-to-eat non-perishable food, Dioralyte (for rehydration), water purification tablets, blankets (new), lightweight sleeping bags (new), children’s rucksacks, clothes (new), shoes (new). If you are able to help, please phone 028 9050 2725. Website Link. Other contact details: Tuesday's Child, 74 North Parade, Belfast BT7 2GJ; Tel: 028 9064 6104; Mob.: 07813 834045; email: info@tuesdayschild.org.uk.
From Finola Hunt - Friday 3rd September 2010
New Accredited Global Connections Courses - The Ulster People’s College has recently developed two new accredited courses as part of Global Connections. These new courses are entitled:
- The Local Impact of Migration - OCN Level 2; and
- Migration: The Bigger Picture - OCN Level 3.
Both of courses will be delivered during Autumn 2010 along with the ever popular Race and Ethnicity OCN Level 2 course. For information on dates and how to register, please click here (.pdf format, 175Kb.). The new courses will provide an excellent opportunity for those who have completed Race and Ethnicity OCN 2 to explore related concepts in greater detail and to gain further accreditation. These three courses are likely to be popular so please register early to avoid disappointment.
Please contact Finola Hunt at the Ulster People’s College, Tel: 9033 0131 or email: fhunt@upclearn.org.
From Maeve McKeag, GEMS NI - Thursday 19th August 2010
Free Maths, English and ICT Skills Training - Anyone, living in the South Belfast area, who is:
4Unemployed4Between 19-65 years of age4Resident in the UK for three years4And does not have a GCSE (or equivalent qualification), in Maths, English or ICT - is being offered free training through GEMS NI’s Learner Access Engagement Programme. All levels are catered for in a friendly, relaxed environment and more than one course can be taken. Not only will participants get a recognised qualification for the learning, but they will also receive a financial incentive for completion of the course. Anyone who is interested (or who knows someone who would benefit) should please contact Shane, Tel: 028 90 332 313; email: shane.smith@gemsni.org.uk. Please click here for further information (.pdf format, 32Kb.). Website Link.
From Voluntary Service Overseas, via Denise Wright - Thursday 19th August 2010
Global Xchange is coming to Belfast! - Wanted: Host homes - an international experience from the comfort of your own home! An international team of 20 volunteers, aged 18-25, will be arriving in Belfast in January 2011. Volunteers from Belfast, South Africa, Sierra Leone, USA and France will spend 12 weeks here and contribute over 6,000 hours to local community projects. Global Xchange is seeking individuals who have a spare room and who feel that they would benefit from (a ) being part of a unique cultural exchange and (b) be willing to host 2 volunteers in their home (for anything from 2 – 12 weeks, volunteers can share a room).
The organisation provides:
- A weekly allowance (£100 per pair) to cover food and utilities
- Full support from 2 Programme Supervisors
Global Xchange is a cross-cultural, international volunteering programme from VSO in partnership with the British Council. For further information, please contact: Claire Faithorn, Programme Supervisor - Tel: 07785 772934; email: claire.faithorn@vso.org.uk. Please click here to view/download the Host information document “Multilateral Youth Xchange” (.pdf format, 47.3Kb.); please click here to view/download the “Global Xchange Host Home Form” (.pdf format, 44.4Kb.). Website Link (Global Exchange); Website Link (VSO UK).
From Denise Wright - Monday 16th August 2010
Windsor Women’s Centre Education Programme 2010 - Windsor Women’s Centre has published its 2010 education programme. For details, please click here to view/download (.pdf format, 186Kb.).
From Denise Wright - Monday 16th August 2010
BBC Journalism Trainee Scheme - Do you have what it takes to be a trainee journalist at the BBC? The BBC is looking for good writers, without a professional broadcasting background, who can help them to reflect their widely differing audiences.
The aim is to find talented and creative people who might have been put off the idea of a career as a broadcast journalist because of the training costs involved. They are also very keen to hear from people who have ambition to work in broadcast news but who - for whatever reason - have been pursuing a different career.
The BBC is offering a year’s paid training at one of their many newsrooms across the BBC. If you have ever wondered what it would be like working for the BBC in Belfast, now is your chance to find out. You could spend a year working in online, TV and radio. Other placements are across the UK - from London to Glasgow and all the regions in between. You'll have an experienced mentor and be given lots of help to find a job as a BBC journalist at the end of your year.
If you are interested, why not come to the information evening at the BBC on Monday 6 September. You will have a chance to find out more about the scheme, hear from a current BBC Journalist, talk to former trainees and get some career tips and advice. BBC Journalism Trainee Scheme, Monday 6th September 2010, 6:00pm – 8:00pm (registration from 5:30pm), BBC, Blackstaff Studios, 62-66 Great Victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7BB. For further information, please click here (.htm, 12.7Kb). BBC Link.
From Maeve McKeag, GEMS NI - Friday 13th August 2010
Language For Work, Free English Classes - ‘Language for Work’ - an accredited 12-week course - is an intensive English Language training programme designed to help people, whose native language is other than English, acquire the English language skills needed to work in Northern Ireland. The course is free!
Anyone interested should register as soon as possible - the course is due to re-start during early September. As previously, the course will be delivered on a ‘roll on, roll off’ basis and will be held every Tuesday and Friday.
For further information and/or to register, please contact Maeve or Shane, Tel: 028 9033 2313; Email: maeve.mckeag@gemsni.org.uk. (Interested parties are also invited to attend the information session - again, contact Maeve or Shane.)
Please click here to view/download (and distribute/display please) the promotional poster (.pdf format, 216Kb.). GEMS NI, Language For Work Weblink.
From Marnie Kennedy, BIP - Wednesday 11th August 2010
Hitchhikers Guide to the Belfast Festival at Queens - WEA is working in partnership with the Belfast Festival to bring you the “Hitchhikers Guide to the Belfast Festival at Queens”. This year’s programme is packed with a collection of lively and interesting events - and the WEA and Belfast Festival are keen for community groups across the city to be part of the audience.
The “Hitchhikers” programme is aimed at groups of up to 12 adults (over 16yrs old) who do not usually go to the Festival, theatre or live music events. Such groups will be accompanied by a friendly guide, before an event, who will provide free tickets and give a brief explanation of the show’s content before it begins. The guide will assemble the group after the show to garner individuals’ opinions and to remind everyone of the next event.
Any community organisation that has a group of up to 12 interested people (or a smaller number willing to form part of another group) should please contact Carole Kane, Tel: 028 9032 9718; email: carole.kane@wea-ni.com. This is a very popular programme, so please contact Carole as soon as possible. Links: Belfast Festival at Queen’s; www.wea-ni.com/.
From Mark de Conink, Ocean Youth Trust Ireland - Monday 2nd August 2010
Ocean Youth Trust Ireland Fully-Subsidised Try Sailing - The Ocean Youth Trust Ireland is inviting interested groups to take part in one of its current programmes involving the use of its Small Boat Fleet. Having received funding from Belfast City Council and the David Irvine Foundation, the Ocean Youth Trust is in the fortunate position to offer a select amount of fully-subsidised Try Sailing, RYA Level 1 Qualifications, and OCN Level 1 Good Relations & Cultural Diversity programmes for organisations based in the Belfast/Greater Belfast area - on a first come first served basis. Further subsidies available thereafter.
Available courses: Try Sailing (up to 10 people, 15 for ½ Day, £30 for full day - Morning & Afternoon sessions available). Essentially a get wet and have fun day, Try Sailing is suitable for anyone who wants to get involved with Sailing regardless of previous experience. Try Sailing also lends itself well to team-building and group work.
RYA Level 1 (up to 6 people, 2-day course at £30 per day). Taking the Try Sailing a stage further, the Trust is offering the opportunity for people to gain their RYA Level 1 Sailing Qualification. Once again, this beginner course is suitable for all interested parties regardless of sailing experience.
OCN Level 1 Good Relations & Cultural Diversity (up to 10 people, 5-day course at £60 per person). The course includes: RYA Level 1 Dinghy Sailing, contribution to OCN Level 1 Good Relations & Cultural Diversity. This 5 day accredited course covers a range of interesting themes including personal identity, conflict, community and citizenship, and of course having sailing fun!
The figures shown are for the full costs before reductions. Free and heavily subsidised courses are available - currently there is availability throughout the month of September and the beginning of October for these courses, which will be run out of Ballyholme Yacht Club in Bangor. Interested parties should please email: ben@oyti.org; Tel: 028 9045 4472. Newsletter Link.
From Chris O’Halloran, BIP - Thursday 29th July 2010
Steps To Work - Free Training in IT Vocational Skills - Transition Training, in conjunction with the Department for Employment and Learning, is delivering, through the ‘Steps To Work’ programme, free training (City & Guilds qualifications) in Web Design and Multimedia (NVQ and VRQ); Computers for the Office Environment (NVQ and VRQ); Computerised Accounts (VRQ); Systems Support (NVQ and VRQ).
Transition Training can provide one of its trained and qualified adult students for placement for 30 hours per week for either 16 or 36 weeks. For further details, please click here to view/download the ‘gist’ of the message received by Chris O’Halloran (.pdf format, 83.1Kb.). Contact: Frankie Higgins, Email: frankiehiggins@transitiontraining.org; Tel: 028 9033 1504 (or 07746 279839). Website Link.
From Marnie Kennedy, BIP - Wednesday 28th July 2010
New Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration - The new Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration has been released for consultation. This is an important document and statement of policy intentions towards the renewal of interface communities.
A quote from the document: “This Programme sets out goals that we believe are crucial to achieving a shared and better future for all. In particular, we are committed to addressing the issues for disaffected young people; welcoming and living in harmony with our neighbours from minority ethnic backgrounds; and tackling the conditions that perpetuate the need for urban interfaces and rural segregation.”
According to the online BBC News release, the public is now being asked to consult on the document over the next three months. The consultation period will run until 29th October 2010. To view the online BBC News release, please click here. To download the Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration and consultation questionnaire, please click here (NIDirect website). Direct link to the Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration Consultation Document (.pdf format, 504Kb.). Interested parties are urged to read the consultation document and to take up opportunities to feed back to OFMDFM with your views of it and how it might be improved.
From NICVA, via Elaine Mansfield - Monday 26th July 2010
NI Public Expenditure Cuts - Oxford Economics Report - To view/download the report from Oxford Economics, “Cutting carefully – how repairing UK finances will impact NI” (a report for NICVA, July 2010) please click here (.pdf format, 744Kb.). NICVA Chief Executive, Seamus McAleavey, said: “It doesn't make for comfortable reading. However, it does arm us for our lobbying campaign over the next three months, entitled "Smart Solutions in Tough Times". The report predicts that Northern Ireland will loose over £1.2 billion over four years and we are fearful that if handled badly voluntary and community organisations could suffer unfairly.”
NICVA has also set up a pre-consultation Budget 2010 session, with senior officials from the Department of Finance and Personnel (DFP), for Tuesday 10th August from 11.00am to 1.00pm. For further information click here. Those wishing to attend this key meeting should contact Cathy Breslin at cathy.breslin@nicva.org. NIVCA is also in the process of setting up pre budget consultation meetings with each department - and will keep members informed.
Seamus McAleavey adds, “It is important that organisations get active individually - if we wait for the axe to fall, it will fall! We are not seeking special treatment just fair treatment and are encouraging organisations to demonstrate their real value with hard data.” Please click here to go to the relevant NICVA news page.
From Brian Mullan - Thursday 8th July 2010
Public Health Agency launches first Director of Public Health Report - The first annual report of the Director of Public Health for Northern Ireland was published today. This significant report highlights the many public health challenges that affect people in Northern Ireland. The Director of Public Health Annual Report, 2009 may be accessed by clicking here (.pdf format, 3.16Mb.); The Director of Public Health Annual Report Core Tables, 2009 may be accessed by clicking here (.pdf format, 1.42Mb.).
From Denise Wright - Thursday 24th June 2010
Roundtable Wins Award for Social Cohesion - Please click here (.htm, 14.3Kb.) to view the communiqué from the Executive Information Service (OFMDFM News Release) regarding the Intercultural Achievement Awards. The Roundtable won an award for its work in Social Cohesion - warm congratulations to Stephanie Mitchell who has put a lot of hard work and effort into the Integration Project.
From Stephanie Mitchell - Tuesday 1st June 2010
Belfast Inclusion Festival Website Goes ‘Live’ - [Message text] “Belfast Inclusion Festival - events by communities for communities. The Festival website went live last night featuring the first of the 45+ events scheduled to take place throughout June. More are being added all the time so please watch this space at www.belfastinclusionfestival.org.
 “B inclusive: If you are organising an event that:
- celebrates diversity
- promotes inclusion
- takes place in Belfast during June
- is free of charge and
- where all are welcome...
“...then I will be glad to include it in the programme. This is a flexible, grassroots festival designed to respond at short notice and help promote the many creative ideas and examples of excellent work that are continually generated in the city as the result of people's goodwill and commitment to inclusion - on the ground. I look forward to seeing what shape this takes during June!
“Belfast Friendship Club fundraising launch: Thursday 3rd June 7-9pm, Common Grounds Café.
“Thanks to several workshops led by Michael Hart (Belfast Print Workshops), this week's programme will include an exhibition of monoprints by members of the Club on show throughout June. All proceeds will go to the Friendship Club, ensuring that we can continue to offer a warm welcome to all.” Please click here to view/download Monoprint Launch flyer (.pdf format, 186Kb.). Contact Stephanie Mitchell, Tel: 028 9024 4070; Fax: 028 9024 5565; Email: stephanie.mitchell@sbrtr.org.uk.
From Eileen Mellon - Thursday 27th May 2010
UnLtd Road Safety Challenge Awards now open - The UnLtd Road Safety Challenge Awards have been recently established to support communities to develop solutions to their road safety issues. Applications for awards are open to individuals, informal/formal community groups and voluntary groups with innovative solutions to road safety issues. The key aims of the Awards are to support and invest in the motivation of individuals and groups who are passionate about road safety and its issues, and to bring about community impact in crucial road safety areas such as safety for children, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users; better driver testing, training and licensing; better driver behaviour and safer road infrastructure or vehicles. The awards available are:
Catalyst Awards: up to £5,000
Catalyst Awards are aimed at energetic, driven and committed individuals or groups who have an idea and need help getting it off the ground.
Development Awards: up to £15,000
Development Awards are up to £15,000 to support individuals or groups with existing and developed projects that can grow to the next level.
For further information about who can apply, etc., please click here (Word 2007 .docx, 15.7Kb.). Contact for Road Safety Challenge Awards: email - janebryson@unltd.org.uk; Tel: 028 9024 4007. Click this link - UnLtd - for the application and guidance notes.
From Barbara Ward via Marnie Kennedy - Friday 21st May 2010
"Legal Highs" and Mephedrone (PHA) - Please click here to download/view a revised version of the Public Health Agency's (PHA) generic "Legal highs" Factsheet (.pdf format, 475Kb.) - this has been revised to take into account recent changes in the legislation on mephedrone. If you have been using the previous Factsheet, or have placed it on your website, please replace it with this version.
Also, please click here to view/download the first PHA "Legal highs" Bulletin (.pdf format, 191Kb.) - this contains updated information specifically on mephedrone, its legal status and health issues.
It is envisaged that future "Legal Highs" Bulletins will be published in response to emerging new trends or identified substances - this will allow the PHA to respond quickly with accurate information for individuals, families, communities and practitioners on specific substances.
The Bulletin supports the information contained in the generic Factsheet. For further information and/or clarification please contact: Barbara Ward, Senior Drug and Alcohol Co-ordinator, Public Health Agency, Drugs and Alcohol Co-ordination Team, Anderson House - 2nd Floor, Market Street, Omagh BT78 1EE; Email: barbara.ward@hscni.net; Tel: 028 8225 3950; Fax: 028 8225 3959.
From Richard Cory-Wright via Denise Wright - Thursday 13th May 2010
Good Relations Education Challenge Paper - Teachers should be better supported to address issues of sectarianism and racism - that’s one of the key messages of a Challenge Paper published recently by the Good Relations Forum. The intention of the Challenge Paper is to promote and encourage real, meaningful and sustained contact amongst children and young people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. It examines the social and religious divisions in Northern Ireland schools and develops a series of suggestions aimed at improving school co-operation between schools and across the sectarian divide.
The Challenge Paper sets out a series of recommendations to the Department of Education, other educational policy-makers, schools and local communities. Click here for the full text of this message (.pdf format, 42Kb.). Click here to view/download the Challenge Paper, itself (.pdf format, 292Kb.).
From Siobhan Caulfield via Denise Wright - Thursday 13th May 2010
Prince’s Trust Update - Last year, alone, in Northern Ireland, the Prince's Trust helped over 3,000 young people change their levels and this year we are aiming to help many more. As you know, we believe in young people who often don’t believe in themselves. We seek out those young people that need our help the most and work with young people who struggle at school, are in, or leaving, care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law. We are aware that young people from ethnic minorities, with disabilities, who are single parents and who are refugees are over-represented in these groups and we are keen to work with partners who specialise in these areas to increase our update from young people in these sub groups.
Please click here (Word .doc, 510Kb.) for an update on all the programmes we currently run in N.I. including locations, dates and contact telephone numbers. Siobhan Caulfield, Senior Head of Programmes, The Prince’s Trust, Block 5, Jennymount Court, North Derby Street, Belfast, BT15 3HN. Tel:028 9075 8104; Email: siobhan.caulfield@princes-trust.org.uk. Prince’s Trust Website Link.
Monday 29th March 2010
Belfast City Council, Grants and Funding - Reminder! - Grants to help fund events and community activities throughout Belfast:
Culture & Arts Rolling Programme
This Rolling Programme provides small grants to support innovation in arts and heritage. Grants range from £500 to £3,000. Open throughout the year. Webpage Link.
Support for Sport - hospitality funding for sports events
This grant offers support for athletes and officials taking part in major sporting events in Belfast. It also celebrates excellence in achievement by competitors from Belfast. Open throughout the year. Webpage Link.
Support for Sport - small development and equipment grants
If your sports club or community organisation is fully constituted, you can apply to BCC for funding of up to £1,000 per year. BCC also offers an one-off equipment grant of up to £250 for new clubs or new sections within existing clubs, for example, a youth or ladies' section. Open throughout the year. Webpage Link.
From Denise Wright - Monday 1st March 2010
Free English Language Classes - Free English Language Classes for speakers of other languages.
There are two classes - Beginner and Higher. Both take place at 1.00pm on Tuesdays at Belfast Metropolitan College, College Square East, Belfast BT1 6DJ. The classes last for two hours and all levels of ability are welcome.
The courses are free and there is no need to be enrolled at the college or have any previous English learning experience.
From Maeve McKeag - Friday 8th January 2010
GEMS Learning Language for Work - GEMS Learning Language for Work will be restarting on Wednesday 13th January 2010. Classes will be held every Wednesday and Friday, 9.30am - 12.30pm.
The first class will be in GEMS’ offices in Ascot House and subsequently in the Markets Community Centre.
In addition to the above classes, a Conversation Class will start on Monday 18th January 2010 - to give Language for Work participants an opportunity to further practice their English. For more information, please contact Maeve at 9033 2313, email: maeve.mckeag@gemsni.org.uk. Website Link
Thursday 12th November 2009
What can we do to tackle child poverty in Northern Ireland? - is the title of a report published today by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, authored by Goretti Horgan from the University of Ulster and Marina Monteith from Save the Children (Northern Ireland), which explores the challenges faced by the Northern Ireland Assembly in meeting its target of eradicating child poverty. [From the JRF website] The report found that persistent poverty in Northern Ireland (21% before housing costs) is more than double that in Great Britain (9% before housing costs). View/download the report summary by licking here (.pdf format, 309Kb).
The report points to four main reasons for higher persistent poverty in Northern Ireland:
- High levels of worklessness: 31 per cent of the working-age population is not in paid work, higher than any GB region and 6 per cent higher than the GB average.
- High rates of disability and limiting long-term illness, especially mental ill-health.
- Low wages: the median wage for men working full-time is 85 per cent of that for British men.
- Poor-quality part-time jobs and obstacles to mothers working.
The authors recommend that the Assembly works on six key areas:
- Increasing the supply of well-paid, good quality jobs
- Supporting those already in work to increase their qualification levels
- Alleviating the worst impacts of poverty on children
- Addressing the lack of quality affordable childcare
- Increasing educational attainment
- Providing access to leisure and social activities for poorer young people
Julia Unwin, Chief Executive of the JRF, said: “The Assembly has already shown that it is possible to intervene to alleviate some of the worst aspects of poverty. Just as it provided the one-off fuel payment of £150 to families on benefit in winter 2008/09, it could make it easier for people to take 'mini-jobs', allowing those living on benefits to provide a little extra for their families. School budgets need to provide for all the costs of education including books, school trips and after-school activities. It must also address ways of giving poorer young people access to positive social and leisure activities.”
Tuesday 10th November 2009
Donegall Pass Community Forum welcomes the IFI announcement to support the Cromac Regeneration Initiative Project with £800,000 capital funding. The money will provide the Project with the bulk of the capital needed to purchase and refurbish the former South Belfast Economic Resource Centre located at the Ormeau Road end of Donegall Pass – opposite the Gasworks site. (Web page link)
“This very welcome funding, with the additional award of over £130,000 to enable us to employ an inter-community worker with programme funds, will allow the Forum, together with our partners – the Lower Ormeau Residents’ Action Group and the Markets Development Association – to deliver Peace and Reconciliation Programmes and Social Economy Projects within and between the three Inner South Belfast Interface Communities”, said Elaine Mansfield, Donegall Pass Community Forum’s Development Manager.
The Forum’s Chairperson, Mr Harry Todd, expressed his delight and commented, “For the first time the residents of Donegall Pass community will own a share of an asset worth several hundreds of thousands of pounds and have access to a valuable income stream, independent of public funding. The employment of an interface worker will promote and drive the Cromac Regeneration Initiative’s work in conflict transformation and support inter-community partnership work, community relations interventions and reconciliation, identify, secure and develop shared space and work towards a shared future, an embedded peace and inclusive community.”
Elaine Mansfield added that “the Project will be an asset to all three neighbouring communities and will enhance the work being carried out jointly through our Neighbourhood Action Plan.”
The project is now seeking approximately £230,000 in match funding to finalise the purchase and refurbishment of the building.
From Chris O’Halloran, Belfast Interface Project - Thursday 29th October 2009
Summary: A Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland. “Please find attached for your information (click here, pdf 404Kb) a document forwarded to us by Miriam Titterington at the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (NIHRC), intended to promote a greater understanding of NIHRC’s recommendations on a Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland.
“Miriam informs that an easy read version is about to be put on NIHRC’s website (www.nihrc.org) where you can also access the full advice document published 10th December 2008. The attached summary, however, contains all the recommendations and may be easier to find your way around.
“NIHRC has also prepared materials for schools and, if interested, you could contact their Education Worker, Deirdre McAliskey, at the same number below, about whether these can be adapted for use by youth groups.”
Contacts: Miriam Titterton, Development Worker; Deirdre McAliskey, Education Worker, Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, Temple Court, 39 North Street, Belfast BT1 1NA. Tel: 028 9024 3987; Textphone: 028 9024 9066; Fax: 028 9024 7844; SMS:07786202075; Email: miriam.titterton@nihrc.org”
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