Integrating Communities Programme

Programme of training, support

and mentoring for community

organisations seeking to engage

in cross border and/or cross

community activities

Programme Aims

• Increase the capacity and confidence of unionist and nationalist communities to work together

• Foster and develop relationships within and between communities

• Encourage sustainable partnership working and promote continued reconciliation and peace building activities

• Be a catalyst for groups to engage in partnerships and take decisive action towards new and innovative programmes or projects which will benefit the community

Case Study

• Dennett Interchange Ltd in partnership with Learmount Community Development Group

• The Community Cohesion project is providing a range of community development activities and training within the villages of Donemana and Park to help build community cohesion and ultimately reconciliation between both communities.

Project Logo

Dennett Project Activities

• Joint steering committee established

• Capacity building to enable participation

• History sessions to explore divided past

• Music/Dance used to promote understanding of each culture

• Building Respect programme

•Training and Education programmes

• Networking activities

Dennett Project

• Constructive steps to build upon their initial relationship

• Project will create opportunities for future networking and dialogue

• Activities will impact on mutual understanding and reconciliation across all age groups and gender

• Strong peace building/ reconciliation focus throughout all elements

Evaluation

“This programme has been a watershed for us”

“The willingness was there but without the project there wouldn’t be life to it”

“You have to put yourself out of your comfort zone at times, and it is challenging work”

“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved”

“I never thought in my lifetime I would see participation in [the others’] religious events locally, I am glad to see the day people can feel comfortable to attend”