Young people in Newtownabbey are improving their confidence and community spirit, thanks to National Lottery funding.
Mayfield Village Community Association in Glengormley has been awarded a £70,757 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund (formally Big Lottery Fund).
The group is using the funding to support young people from Mayfield Village in Newtownabbey to improve their confidence, employability and community spirit.
Through the three year project, 25 young people aged 14-18 will join a certified young leaders programme to develop their skills and become role models and volunteers for the project.
These young people will take the lead in delivering a programme for other young people in the area, including games nights, dance and drama sessions, and produce a magazine for the whole community. They will also make videos for their own YouTube channel, with guest speakers talking about social issues which the young people have raised, such as social media, body image and substance misuse.
Helen Callaghan, Chair of Mayfield Village Community Association, said they have worked with young people to develop this project and given them a say on what is needed to help them gain new skills and be involved in positive community activities.
“Part of the money will also be used to replace the hall floor which will give us a sense of pride for the whole community and increase use of the hall,” she added.
Triangle Housing Association Limited has also received a £198,203 grant. The group provides housing for families and people with a range of disabilities and support needs. They are using the funding over three years for staff costs and training for Triangle’s accommodation projects, special educational needs school pupils, and community groups in areas including Newtownabbey.
The project, which is called Brilliantly Me, includes Train the Trainer sessions so learning can be shared, sensory storytelling skills, and singing using Makaton, which is a form of sign language. The project will form a Makaton choir to perform in community venues. They will also hold a celebration event to recognise the work of everyone involved.
Leanne McCafferty, Triangle Housing Participation and Engagement Manager said they are helping people to build their confidence, make positive changes in their lives and be their best selves, brilliantly.
Kate Beggs, who was recently appointed as The National Lottery Community Fund Northern Ireland Director, said it’s lovely to see the cash being used by people who are taking the lead in developing great ideas to help their communities thrive.
“I want to say thanks to all the National Lottery players who have helped make this possible,” she added.
Application forms and guidance notes are available to download at www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk. For more details call us on 028 9055 1455, or e-mail us at enquiries.ni@tnlcommunityfund.org.uk.