Title :: Sustainable Communities

Programme :: Community Development

Commenced :: May 2003

Value :: £154,200

Measure :: 3.2 Locally-based Human Resource Training and Development Strategies

Aim :: Develop an integrated community infrastructure, education and communication programme, which will assist in creating a vibrant and informed community.

Overview :: This three year project has now entered its final year. Banbridge District is viewed as having a weak community infrastructure, with the District’s first community development strategy not being developed until 2001. The Bridge Partnership identified the need to support and strengthen the District’s community sector by provision of hand on support and advice, training and promotion of reconciliation activity. Banbridge Regeneration Agencies Network (BRAN) is now in the final year of this three year project to develop and implement an integrated community infrastructure, education and communication project which will assist in creating a vibrant and informed community.

Objectives ::

• Develop and enhance community spirit and civic pride.
• Build and support healthy, safe and active communities.
• Address social inclusion and isolation.
• Promote community cohesiveness through greater understanding and tolerance of different cultures.

Outputs ::

• Employment of a full time community development worker.
• 4 areas of weak community infrastructure targeted.
• 2 new groups established.
• 20 community groups supported in the development of projects and / or project ideas.
• 80 mentoring sessions delivered.
• 50 participants with accredited qualifications.
• Establishment and management of a community forum for the District.
• 8 information and networking opportunities provided.
• Development of a long term, sustainable strategy for community development within the District.
• Summer scheme to be held in July 2005, 3 days a week for 6 weeks, targeting 20 children. Specific targeting to be done for minority groups.
• Completion of an independent final evaluation.

Quote ::
By providing hands on support for community groups from throughout the Banbridge District we are helping build their capacity and giving them the skills they need to ensure their sustainability long after the project ends. Lynne Harvey, Community Development Officer

Contact ::
Lynne Harvey
Community Development Officer, Banbridge Regeneration Agencies Network (BRAN)
T: 028 4066 0566
E: may.bran@btconnect.com