Funding fair informs communities in South Antrim

The planning day, which was held in the Dunadry Hotel in Antrim, provided an opportunity for constituted community groups, the Housing Community Network (HCN) and partners from Housing Executive communities to come together. 

The event was jointly facilitated by the Housing Executive and Supporting Communities.

Stephen Gamble, Housing Executive Good Relations Officer South Antrim said, “This event provided the time and space to shine a spotlight and celebrate the fantastic work of our community groups across South Antrim.

“Specialist speakers facilitated a workshop which delivered crucial learning, allowed over 100 practitioners to network, share best practice and hear important updates on relevant issues affecting communities.

“Discussions on the day centred around domestic violence, community, and online safety and resilience and mental wellbeing, all very relevant topics given recent legislation and issues affecting society. 

“It is our belief that delegates have received vital information and support which will join the dots for many in attendance and propel future work in South Antrim.”

Speaking at the event Wayne Denner, Online Safety Specialist said, “Over 80 organisations from many backgrounds in Northern Ireland attended this fantastic event. 

“I discussed the importance of keeping up to date with AI and rapidly changing technology and how profoundly it impacts our lives and communities.”

Lindsay Harris, Training & Policy Manager, Onus and guest speaker said, “It was great to speak at this conference just after the launch of the new Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy. 

“We are looking forward to working with communities across South Antrim who are determined to play their part in creating ‘Safe Places’ for anyone living with abuse to access support.”  

Billy Dixon, Motivational Speaker said, “What a relaxed, informative and practical conference. 

“I learned so much from the other speakers about where to signpost victims of domestic abuse and the steps we need to take to protect ourselves against online fraud.”

Anita Doonan, Funding and Social Value Officer for Supporting Communities who organised the funding fair said, “For community groups across Northern Ireland, finding and securing funding for projects and activities is a constant challenge. 

“This funding fair enabled attendees to speak directly to potential funders about their project ideas, and more importantly, to meet groups from the South Antrim area and hear about what matters to them most.”