Empowering Communities Social Inclusion & Community Activation Programme (SICAP)
Launch of the new Finn Valley Community Services & Facilities Directory, Stranorlar
EUROPEAN UNION Investing in your future European Social Fund
The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) is co funded by the Irish Government and the European Union under the European Social Fund and includes a special allocation under the Youth Employment Initiative” Rialtas na hÉireann agus an tAontas Eorpach a chómhaoiníonn an Clár Gníomhachtúcháin Pobail agus Cuimsiú Sóisialta (SICAP) 2015 - 2017 faoi Chiste Sóisialta na hEorpa agus folaíonn sé leithdháileadh speisialta faoin Tionscnamh Fostaíochta don Aos Óg
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Foreword In Donegal Local Development CLG our purpose is to support our communities by enabling and empowering them through their ideas and actions to make Donegal a better place to live and work. Through the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) we have been very fortunate to partner and work with a wide range of community groups, organisations and volunteers across Donegal. Our common goal is the planning and delivery of services that target inequality, poverty, exclusion and disadvantage as experienced by our communities. We have produced this case brochure to shine a light on the wide range of activities, projects, services, events, training and workshops provided by people and community groups in different community areas in partnership with Donegal Local Development. We would like to express our thanks to everyone that works collectively with us in addressing many different issues and challenges and we look forward to working with you again in the future.
Jim Slevin Chairperson
www.dldc.org
John Starrett Vice - Chairperson
Padraic Fingleton Chief Operations Officer
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Welcome Thank you for your interest in the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP). In Donegal Local Development we have been very fortunate to partner and work with a wide range of community groups, organisations and volunteers across Donegal in the delivery of the SICAP Programme. We have produced this case brochure to shine a light on the wide range of activities, projects, services, events, training and workshops provided by people and community groups in different community areas in partnership with Donegal Local Development. We would like to thank our partners for linking with us and look forward to working with you again in the future.
About SICAP The aim of SICAP is to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion and equality. The programme has three distinct programme goals. 1. Empowering Disadvantaged Communities (Goal 1) To support and resource disadvantaged communities and marginalised target groups in identifying and addressing social exclusion and equality issues; 2.
Lifelong Learning (Goal 2) To support people and marginalised target groups experiencing educational disadvantage so that people can participate fully, engage with an progress through lifelong learning opportunities.
3.
Employment (Goal 3) To engage with marginalised target groups and people who are unemployed to move them closer to the labour market and improve work readiness. To support people in accessing employment / self-employment / social enterprise opportunities.
In Donegal Local Development different staff work to provide services for communities under each of the SICAP Programme Goals. Services are delivered in partnership with Donegal Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) and Donegal County Council in two different geographic areas. www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
SICAP – Geographic Areas Covered SICAP services are delivered by Donegal Local Development in two different geographic areas – in the Gaeltacht (SICAP Lot 332) and Central Donegal (SICAP Lot 333). We provide services in all of Donegal with the exception of Inishowen. Inishowen Development Partnership, provides SICAP supports and services in Inishowen www.inishowen.ie.
SICAP Staff SICAP STAFF Central Donegal
SICAP Goal 1
SICAP Goal 2
Stephen Barrett Margaret Larkin Lourda Nee
Susan Kierce Marsh Aisling Sharkey Kathy Cunningham Noelle Blaney
Gaeltacht
Programme Goal Teams
Margaret Doherty Angela Uí Fhearraigh Bridget Nic Gairbheith
SICAP Goal 3 Louise Brogan Colette Callaghan Helen Clarke Mary Higgins Michael Brenn Rachel Wasson
Programme Management & Administration Padraic Fingleton Joanne Murphy Anne Crossan Deirdre Cannon Alison McMonagle
Eibhlín Ní Dhuibhir Denise Ní Dhuibhir
SICAP Offices
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Letterkenny
Donegal Town
Gweedore
1 Millennium Court Pearse Road Letterkenny Co. Donegal F92 W50R Tel: 074 91 27056
Public Services Centre Donegal Town Co. Donegal F94 DKC
Áislann Ghah Dobhair, Páirc Gnó Ghaoth Dobhair, Doire Beaga Co. Dhún na nGall F92 D60W Tel: 074 95 32712
Tel: 074 97 23368
www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Central Donegal Goal 1 – Empowering Disadvantaged Communities
Stephen Barrett Coordinator
Lourda Nee Project Officer
Margaret Larkin Project Officer
Goal 2 – Lifelong Learning
Susan Kierce - Marsh Coordinator
Noelle Blaney Project Officer Education & Training
Aisling Sharkey Project Officer
Kathy Cunningham Project Officer
Goal 3 - Employment
Louise Brogan Coordinator
Colette Callaghan Project Officer
Rachel Wasson Enterprise Officer
Michael Brennan Enterprise Officer
Regional Employment Service Letterkenny (RES)
Helen Clarke Project Officer
www.dldc.org
Mary Higgins Project Officer
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Donegal Gaeltacht Goal 1 – Empowering Disadvantaged Communities
Margaret Doherty Coordinator
Angela Uí Fhearraigh Project Officer
Bridget Nic Gairbheith Project Officer Education & Training
Goal 2 – Lifelong Learning
Eibhlín Ní Dhuibhir Project Officer
Denise Ní Dhuibhir Project Officer
Goal 3 - Employment
Joanne Murphy Finance & Administration Manager
www.dldc.org
Anne Crossan Administration Officer
Deirdre Cannon Finance Officer
Alison McMonagle Administration Support
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Social Inclusion & Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2016 – Partnerships, Services & Supports
Case Studies The purpose of this case study section is to shine a light on the considerable community and voluntary work undertaken across Donegal by different community groups, organisations and volunteers. We have had an opportunity to partner with, support and resource many of the activities, projects, services, training, events and workshops organised by these groups and organisations under the SICAP programme. We welcome links with new community groups and partners on an ongoing basis. Please feel free to get in contact with the staff in one of our offices if you would like further information on how we can be of help and the supports and services available. We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks to all the groups and organisations that worked in partnership with Donegal Local Development in the delivery of SICAP supports and services throughout the year. If we have not had an opportunity to showcase the work which your group has undertaken in this publication, we look forward to including your details in future.
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
“Walk and Talk” Ards Forest Park
Partner(s) Mental Health Ireland, Coillte
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Event
“Walk and Talk” in Ards Forest Park as part of the National Green Ribbon Campaign
About
This event was part of a month long national Green Ribbon Campaign in May 2016 to get people talking openly about mental health issues. See Change, the National stigma reduction partnership, rolls out the Green Ribbon campaign which aims to encourage everyone to talk more about mental health. Aengus Kennedy from Nature Northwest led a very informative nature walk which was followed by walking football, refreshments and music. The aim is to make the month of May every year synonymous with promoting an open conversation on mental health and challenging the stigma of mental health issues.
Contact
Margaret Larkin – Letterkenny | mlarkin@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Open Day at Twin Towns Community Gardens
Partner(s) Twin Towns Community Gardens Event
Public open day at the community gardens
About
The community gardens is situated behind the HSE offices in Ballybofey. In early 2016 the gardens were almost completely destroyed due to the flooding in the area at the beginning of the year. Through sheer voluntary effort, spirit and determination members of the committee worked tirelessly all year to get the gardens up and going again. In August the committee hosted a public engagement and open day to showcase the gardens which is accessed and used by many different local community groups. A new mens shed has also setup on the same site this year.
Contact
Stephen Barrett – Letterkenny | sbarrett@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Community Group Networking Event - Ballintra
Partner(s) Donegal South Forum
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Event
South Donegal Communities Networking Event
About
A networking event was hosted by Donegal South Forum to bring together members of different local community and voluntary groups. The event provided people within the area with an opportunity to link together and discuss the many projects, activities and voluntary work that happens each day within the local community. Speakers at the event were given the opportunity to promote their group and showcase their achievements. The aim of the evening was to provide information on how to get involved in local groups and the benefits of joining community organisations.
Contact
Margaret Larkin – Letterkenny | mlarkin@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Parental Support Workshop - Ballyshannon
Partner(s) Donegal South Forum Event
“Parental Support to Improve Children’s’ Learning Workshop”
About
Pauline Hunter (B.ED, MA, NDT, JST) provided a series of workshops for Donegal Local Development in different community areas on “Parental Support to Improve Children’s’ Learning.” These workshops covered topics to include: how children learn, improving self-esteem in children and how exercise improves learning. The workshops were delivered in a fun, interactive and practical way with advice for parents on how they can assist their child with their learning and development. Workshops were delivered this year in Ballyshannon and Rosnakill.
Contact
Margaret Larkin – Letterkenny - mlarkin@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Ranganna Gaeilge Labhartha
Partner(s) CDP na Rosann
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Event
Ranganna Gaeilge Labhartha i dTí Niall O’ Dónaill, Loch an lúir agus Feirmeoirí ó Oileán Árainn Mór a rinneadh freastail ar seimineár traenála le AranLIFE
About
Ranganna Gaeilge Labhartha Bhí rang Gaeilge labhartha i Teach Niall O’ Dónaill áit a bhfuair daione deis an Ghaeilge a fhoghlaim. Bhain gach duine sult as an rang agus bhí Áine Ní Churráin i láthair le teastas a bhronnadh ar na rannpháirtí. Feirmeoirí ó Oileán Árainn Mór cuairt ar tionscnamh feirmeoireacht AranLIFE. Seo tionscnamh léirsiú atá ag obair ar na trí Oileán Árainn thar 4 bliana ó 2014 2017. D’freastal feirmeoirí ó Oileán Árainn Mór ar seimineár traenála le AranLIFE leis an iniúchadh a dheanamh ar an timpealleacht agus le fiosrú a dheanamh ar dóigheanna leis an tionscnamh seo a roinnt le oileán eile. Ba mhaith le CDP na Rosann buíochas a ghabháil le DLDC ar chur maoiniú ar fáil tríd Clár SICAP leis na himeachtaí thuas a reáchtáil mar cuid de plean oibre 2016 CDP na Rosann.
Contact
Margaret Doherty – Gweedore | margaretdoherty @dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Cumhachtú an Phobail - Bantracht na Tuaithe
Partner(s) Tobar na mBan Event
Cumhachtú na Phobail - i gcomhar le guild Bantracht na Tuaithe
About
Cláraithe leis an ICA (Bantracht na Tuaithe), seo grúpa úr mná, bunaithe i 2016 le imeachtaí suimiúil, oideachasúla agus forbartha a reáchtáil do mná as na dhá pharóiste den Iar Dheisceart – Gleann Cholm Cille & Cill Chartha. Le cuidiú faighte ó SICAP bunaíodh an coiste agus i measc na imeachtaí a rinneadh curadh tús ranganna athchúrsála a reáchtáil. Fuaireadar tuilleadh tacaíocht ón Sciobóil na Fir i Mhín an Aoire agus idir an dhá dram, seo thíos samplaí de cuid de na tograí athchúrsála atá déanta acu fríd 2016. D’éirigh go maith leo sa seó faisean a reáchtáil ag Bantracht na Tuaithe i Leitir Ceanainn ag tús an tsamhraidh. Sa grianghraf thíos fosta tá Lauren a taispeáint an gúna breá úr a rinneadh as carbhat fir, clár buidéil agus bath scrubs.
Contact
Margaret Doherty – Gweedore | margaretdoherty @dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Migrant Rights, Employment & Support Workshop Letterkenny
Partner(s) Donegal Intercultural Platform Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI)
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Event
Migrant Rights, Employment & Supports Workshop, Letterkenny
About
Guest speaker Grainne O’Toole from the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI), based in Dublin, provided a presentation and update on key Irish policy developments and issues impacting members of new communities. The workshop included a discussion on the key actions needed in working towards addressing barriers to inclusion and in addressing labour market inequalities that are experienced by migrant workers. The event formed part of “One Donegal” Social Inclusion Week.
Contact
Stephen Barrett - Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Intercultural Celebrations - Letterkenny
Partner(s) Donegal Intercultural Platform Letterkenny Community Development Project (CDP) Donegal County Council Event
Africa themed Intercultural Celebrations
About
In August, Donegal Intercultural Platform and Letterkenny CDP teamed up in Letterkenny to host an African themed intercultural day which included music, traditional games, food, dancing and a celebration of cultures and traditions. The event had been scheduled for the town park but due to the inclement weather, move indoors to Letterkenny CDP’s social economy unit at the Courtyard shopping centre. The event was a celebration of diversity and community spirit.
Contact
Lourda Nee - Letterkenny - lnee@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
A Celebration of the Achievements of Women in Public Life - Cranford
Partner(s) North Donegal Community Network Cranford Womens Group
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Event
A Celebration of the Achievements of Women in Public Life
About
This event was organised by North Donegal Community Network and Donegal Local Development in association with Cranford Women’s Group. Cranford Women’s Group has been in operation for 16 years and coordinates a range of activities for women living in rural areas along Mulroy bay. The event formed part of “One Donegal Social Inclusion Week” in October and was organised to highlight and celebrate the considerable contributions that women make to life within rural communities in Ireland – a celebration of gender equality.
Contact
Stephen Barrett - Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Social Inclusion & Networking Event - Gartan
Partner(s) North Donegal Community Network, Fanad Daycare Centre, Milford & District Over 65’s, The Young at Heart Group, Kilmacrennan, Gartan Care of the Aged Event
Annual Social Event - Colmcille Heritage Centre
About
This is an annual networking event organised by North Donegal Community Network which this year brought together representatives from four different community groups within North Donegal. As a social event the key focus was on addressing the isolation and loneliness experienced by older people that live alone within rural communities. Each group meets weekly in their respective areas but this event brought members of the different groups together for networking, sharing stories, music and celebrating life.
Contact
Stephen Barrett - Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Sliabh A’Liag Dyslexia Workshop
Partner(s) Sliabh A’Liag Dyslexia
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Service
Dyslexia workshop classes are held every Tuesday evenings between 6.30pm & 8.30pm, Coláiste Na Carraige, Carrick, Co. Donegal.
About
The Sliabh A’ Liag Workshop was set up in September 2015 with the support of Donegal Local Development. The workshop is run by a voluntary committee consisting of the parents of children attending the workshop, in partnership with the workshop teaching staff. The workshops provide specialized classes for children with dyslexia and all teachers at the workshops are fully qualified teachers with special training in helping children with dyslexia. Children from the surrounding areas in south west Donegal attend the classes on a weekly basis. The classes are tailored to suit primary and secondary school children.
Contact
Margaret Doherty – Gweedore | margaretdoherty @dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Club Iomartha Theilinn
Partner(s) Club Iomartha Theilinn Service
Cumhachtú an Phobail - tríd oiliúint den choiste agus iarratas maoinithe a líonadh agus tharraingt anuas.
About
Leasaithe i 2007 tá Club Iomartha Theileann a dhul ó neart to neart. Mar chuid den tacaíocht a chuireadh ar fáil do bhallraíocht an choiste faoi Clár SICAP, tugadh deis díofa páirt a ghlacfadh i dtraenáil deárialachas. Iomaíocht i gcomórtais iomartha, d’iarr an chlub DLDC a thacú leo chun iarratais a dhéanamh chun foinsí airgeadais a bhailiú bád rámhaíocht (ICRF Celtic Yawl) a chéannacht. Is é aidhm an chlub sa todhchaí, go dtabharfadh DLDC tacaíocht don chumann gréasán iomartha a láidriú faoi SICAP.
Contact
Margaret Doherty – Gweedore | margaretdoherty @dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Child Health & Well-being - Milford
Partner(s) Mulroy Community Health Forum
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Event
Child Health & Well-being
About
Mulroy Community Health Forum comprises a group of volunteers living with the Mulroy Bay area, with a shared interest in creating healthy communities and targeting social exclusion. We worked with the group on a number of events including an event on “Chronic Pain conditions” (pain which lasts for more than six months) and a workshop for families, “Child Health & Wellbeing.” This event provided parents with key information on a range of issues / conditions relating to their child health and wellbeing i.e. sleep disorders, night wetting, dental and oral hygiene, speech and language therapy. The event also included a practical “healthy cooking” demonstration by Chef Martin Anderson.
Contact
Stephen Barrett - Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Finn Valley - Community Services Directory
Partner(s) Finn Valley Community Health Forum Donegal Community Health Network Event
Launch of Community Services Directory
About
Finn Valley Community Health Forum (CHF) comprises a group of individuals that come together to discuss and act upon local health matters and to enhance the health and well-being of their communities. The committee in the Finn Valley area mapped the existing community services and facilities available within Convoy, Glenfinn, Ballybofey/ Stranorlar and Killygordon/Crossroads. The project was about letting the public know about the diverse range of services openly accessible within the local community The brochure was launched in November at St Marys Parish Centre in Stranorlar and is available online at www.communityhealthforum.net
Contact
Stephen Barrett – Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Carmichael Centre Training - Killygordon
Partner(s) Local Community Groups
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Event
Carmichael Centre Training – Two Saturdays
About
The Carmichael Centre visited Donegal in the Autumn to provide training sessions over two consecutive Saturdays. Day 1 provided an overview for volunteers of how to setup Community Based Companies Ltd by Guarantee (CLG’s) and the benefits of doing so, together with providing practical template documents for groups progressing to setup CLG’s. Day 2 covered key committee roles and the responsibilities of the Directors of CLG’s. This was the first time that these sessions were delivered in Donegal as typically volunteers need to travel to Dublin to access the training.
Contact
Margaret Larkin – Letterkenny – mlarkin@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Marketing Workshops for Community Groups
Partner(s) Local Community Groups Event
Marketing Workshops
About
We organised a series of Marketing Workshops for local community groups as part of our Autumn training series. The workshops took place in Ballybofey / Stranorlar, Letterkenny and Donegal Town in association with the local community fora and networks within these areas. The workshops provided an outline of the benefits of different lowcost marketing methods for local community groups and the importance of developing a marketing plan for activities, events, workshops and services.
Contact
Stephen Barrett – Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Laetha Spraoi Campaí Samhraidh
Partner(s) Coiste Forbartha Dhobhair
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Event
Laetha Spraoi Campaí Samhraidh – socraithe i 2016
About
Tógadh Ionad Naomh Pádraig faoi stiúir Coiste Forbartha Dhobhair ar son pobal na háite, le tacaíocht láidir, ó Phobal na háite. Ón lá sin go dtí inniu ann, tá Ionad Naomh Pádraig ag freastal go dílis ar idir óg ‘s aosta, ó cheithre aird na paróiste agus níos fuaide ó bhaile, tríd an réimse leathan gníomhaíochtaí agus imeachtaí rathúil a churtar ar fáil ann. Seo thíos roinnt pictiúir de laetha Spraoi Campaí Samhraidh a socraíodh i 2016 agus a ndearna DLDC tacaíocht air.
Contact
Margaret Doherty – Gweedore | margaretdoherty @dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Rosses Dyslexia Workshop
Partner(s) Rosses Dyslexia Support Service
Rosses Dyslexia Workshop
About
Delighted with the increased awareness and understanding of Dyslexia among both parents and teachers the Rosses Dyslexia Workshop the group has grown from strength to strength since its formation three years ago. With just under 50 young people now registered with them in such a short time and attending outofschool classes they also have a ‘waiting list’ of students. While focussed on literacy development in the classes the benefits far exceed that of improved literacy. In the eyes of the young people, the Dyslexia classes are now seen as just another afterschool activity like football or dance with noticeably increased selfesteem and love for book.
Contact
Margaret Doherty – Gweedore | margaretdoherty @dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Training & Employment Progression Event - Stranorlar
Partner(s)
Rural Social Scheme, TĂšS Programme, Donegal ETB, The Irish Defence Forces, Job Club, The National Learning Network, The Open University, The Regional Employment Service, Safetech, Teagasc, Donegal Volunteer Centre, BTWEA/STEA Schemes.
Service
Training and Employment Progression Event, Stranorlar
About
In November, Donegal Local Development with partners organised an employment progression and information event in Stranorlar for participants on different employment schemes. The day featured information stands provided by 15 employment, training, and support organisations which attendees could visit for advice. Organisations with stands at the event included the Department of Social Protection, DLDC’s Job Club, Donegal ETB, the Irish Defence Forces, the National Learning Network, The Open University, the Regional Employment Service, Safetech, Teagasc, the Volunteer Centre, and more.
Contact
Susan Kierce Marsh - Letterkenny - Susan.Kiercemarsh@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Cúrsaí & Imeachtaí Eolas 2016
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www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Cúrsaí & Imeachtaí Eolas 2016
Partner(s)
Cuir DLDC go leor cúrsaí agus imeachtaí eolas ar fáil fríd Gaeltacht Thír Chonaill ó tús Mí Eanáir 2016……… idir An Fánaid; Fhál Carrach; Ghaoth Dobhair; Machaire Rabhartaigh; Clochán Liath; Dobhar; An Ghaeltacht Lár; Cill Chartha & Ghleann Cholm Cille; Small Businesses.
Event
Various - listed below
About
Mar shampla…………san áireamh bhí; Lá Forchéimnithe – Progression day
Spraeáil Lotnaidicídí go Sábháilte – Pesticide Application Ghar chabhair Oibre – Occupational First Aid
Sábháilteacht Feirme – Farm Safety
Deá-Rialachas – Good Governance do bhall choistí
Feasacht sábháilteacht & Úsáid Sábh Slabhrach – Chainsaw Safety Awareness
Oiliúint do Chinnirí Óige – Training for Youth leaders
Clár Tuismitheoirí a Chumasú – Empowering Parents Programme
Ceardlann Lego – Lego Workshops
Workshops – we also ran various business workshops in Gweedore on preparing a health & safety statement, how to complete your annual returns online, a book keeping course and social media for your business.
BTWEA Business Network – The launch of the Business Network took place on the 5th December in Gweedore.
Contact
Margaret Doherty – Gweedore | margaretdoherty @dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Social Media Support for Community Groups
Partner(s) Local Community Groups Workshop Social Media Support for Community Groups
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About
We provide mentoring support for local community groups and committees to enable committees to utilise social media in promoting the work which they do within different community areas, to engage with the public and advertise for free online.
These workshops were piloted throughout 2016 and included practical assistance with the setup and administration of new Facebook pages, scheduling posts, organising activities and events, responsibilities of page administrators as well as tools to boost posts and engage with specific target audiences. As most resources are free to use, they can be very beneficial for local groups as a low-cost marketing methods.
Contact
Aisling Sharkey - Letterkenny - asharkey@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Cumann na gCurrach, Chloich Cheann Fhaola
Partner(s) Cumann na gCurrach, Chloich Cheann Fhaola Service
Regatta Bliantúil Cumann Rámhaíochta Chloich Cheann Fhaola ar loch Dun Lúiche, 5ú lá de mhí Iúil, 2016. Oscailte chuig an phobail uilig bhí suas le deich clubanna iomartha iomaíoch le níos mó na 300 lucht féachana a baint sult as.
About
Lonnaithe i Machaire Rabhartaigh, is club iomartha é seo ina bhfuil ballraíocht as na dhá pharóiste de Chloich Cheann Fhaola agus Ghaoth Dobhair a teacht le chéile go bliantúil agus a thraenáil idir Mhí Mhárta agus Deireadh Fómhar. Is ceann de na spriocanna bliantúil a bhfuil ag an Cumann na gradam /bonn a thabhairt na bhaile as na comórtais fríd an chontae nó fud na tíre.
Contact
Angela Uí Fhearraigh - Gweedore - auifhearraigh@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Ionad Machaire Rabhartaigh
Partner(s) Ionad Machaire Rabhartaigh
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Service
Mar cuid de na himeachtaí óige a reáchtáil i mbliana, socraíodh Cúrsa Fhorbairt Pearsanta céimnithe ag an OCN – i gcuideachta Ionad a’ Phobail, Machaire Rabhartaigh agus Michelle Wyam ón DYS.
About
Bunaithe i 1991, is tré mheán na Gaeilge amháin a dhéanann an coiste a ghnoithe. Tagann na baill le chéile uair sa mhí nó níos minice má bhíonn ábhair tábhachtach le plé. S’ iad príomh aidhmeanna an choiste nó forbairt a dhéanamh ar gach gné de shaol na paróiste. I mbliana bhíodh a reáchtáil cúrsaí chun deis agus tacaíocht a thabhairt do dhaoine óga na háite níos mó féin mhuinín a bheith acu agus chun cur leis na scileanna atá acu roimh ré. I gcuideachta an DYS agus Ionad Machaire Rabhartaigh curadh cúrsaí ar fáil ina raibh oideachas, ábaltacht agus muinín na daoine sa réigiúin Ghaeltachta a fhorbairt tríd ceardlanna suimiúil bunaithe ar aiseolas ó na grúpaí.
Contact
Angela Uí Fhearraigh - Gweedore - auifhearraigh@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Womens Networking Event - Stranorlar
Partner(s) Irish Countrywomen’s Association - Donegal Network Event
Craft and Networking Event, Stranorlar
About
The ICA through a network of guilds in different community areas across Donegal, provide valuable peer support and friendship networks for women living in rural communities – and have worked with Donegal Local Development on workshops to address issues to include isolation, poverty, debt management, and social networking events such as an annual networking and craft day in Stranorlar.
Contact
Margaret Larkin - Letterkenny - mlarkin@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
National Positive Ageing Week Event - Lifford
Partner(s) Lifford 50+ Group & East Donegal Groups
32 |
Event
Social Event Clonleigh Social Services Lifford
About
As Part of National Positive Ageing Week, Lifford 50+ group organised a social event which brought together members of eight different active age groups from across Donegal. The group organise a weekly social activity programme for people living within Lifford and the surrounding areas which meets each Tuesday morning at Lifford Clonleigh Resource Centre.
Contact
Stephen Barrett - Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Mr Jones Film Screening - Century Cinemas Letterkenny
Partner(s) Mental Health Ireland, HSE Event
Mr Jones Film Screening Letterkenny
About
Mental Health Ireland and Donegal Local Development organised a film screening at Century Cinemas in Letterkenny, of the film “Mr Jones” as a means of highlighting awareness of mental health issues. The evening included a discussion and talks around mental health as part of world mental health week and “One Donegal” social inclusion week.
Contact
Margaret Larkin - Letterkenny - mlarkin@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
East Donegal Forum Information Workshop - Letterkenny
Partner(s)
34 |
Donegal Active Retirement Association, East Donegal Community Forum, DLDC, Donegal ETB, Donegal Sports Partnership, Donegal County Council, Donegal Volunteer Centre
Event
Information Workshop on Agency Supports
About
This event in September was organised as part of National Positive Ageing Week and brought together members from different ARA affiliated groups in Donegal. An interagency workshop and discussion was provided on the different supports and services available to groups and committees.
Contact
Lourda Nee - Letterkenny - lnee@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Weekly Social Club - Adults with Alzheimer’s - Fanad
Partner(s) The Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland Fanad Daycare Centre Event
Weekly Social Club for people with Alzheimer’s
About
In response to the significant number of people living with Alzheimer’s in the Fanad area and in recognition of the need for respite for family carers, a new weekly social club was setup at Fanad daycare centre to provide music and activities for people with the condition. Pat McLoughlin CEO of the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland and Joanna Joyce, Advocacy Officer, visited recently to learn from Alistair McKinney, Donegal branch, about the critical services being provided for people with the condition within rural communities.
Contact
Stephen Barrett – Letterkenny – sbarrett@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Women’s Networking Event
Partner(s) Donegal Women’s Network
36 |
Event
Women’s Networking Event
About
Donegal Women’s Network has been providing advice, guidance, services and supports to the many different women’s groups throughout Donegal for the last twenty years whilst advocating for gender equality and raising awareness of gender inequalities in society. This year, we had an opportunity to link with the group for a countywide networking event as part of their 20 years anniversary celebration programme. We partnered with the Network to deliver a range of SICAP supported informational workshops to groups around the role, function and purpose of Public Participation Networks.
Contact
Lourda Nee - Letterkenny - lnee@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Man - Up Campaign
Partner(s) Donegal Women’s Network Event
Man-up Campaign
About
From the 25th November, the International day for the elimination of violence against women until 10th December, Donegal Local Development supported the 16 days of activism against gender based violence. One of the greatest gender inequalities in our society is domestic violence. There is no place in society for domestic violence. Unfortunately the reality is that violence is a lived experience for many women living within our communities and it can take many forms to include not only physical violence, but also many different hidden forms of mental and emotional violence and abuse. The Man-up Campaign is about raising awareness of this social injustice, whereby men in Ireland, ask other men to standup and say that violence towards women is both wrong and unacceptable in any form. We support the National Manup campaign in partnership with Donegal Women’s Network.
Contact
Lourda Nee – Letterkenny – lnee@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Men’s Shed Networking & Open Day - Dunfanaghy
Partner(s) Dunfanaghy Men’s Shed
38 |
Event
Public Open Day and Men’s Shed Networking Event
About
This event was held in September at the men’s shed which is behind Dunfanaghy Family Resource Centre with visiting groups from Letterkenny and Derry. The event included talks from Lourda Nee (SICAP) and Frank Kelly (RDP Programme) with a practical wood turning demonstration, music and refreshments. The Dunfanaghy shed subsequently visited the Derry Men’s Shed to learn from their projects and activities. The men have been supported in the setup and development of the shed by Dunfanaghy FRC and SICAP.
Contact
Lourda Nee - Letterkenny - lnee@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Open Day - Men’s Shed - Ballyshannon
Partner(s) Ballyshannon Men’s Shed Event
Open Day at Ballyshannon Men’s Shed
About
Ballyshannon men’s shed setup newly this year with assistance from Lourda Nee (SICAP). The group secured premises at the old ETB building in the town, got new members involved in the project, developed a constitution, setup a weekly activity woodwork programme at the shed and have gone from strength to strength throughout the year. In September they hosted a public open day at the shed to let people know about their group, services and to showcase their work. The group have also learned from the experiences of other sheds that have been set-up in the county, this learning has supported their development.
Contact
Lourda Nee - Letterkenny - lnee@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Social Gardening Project - Letterkenny
Partner(s) Acquired Brain Injury Ireland (ABI)
40 |
Event
Weekly Social Club - Gardening Project
About
Acquired Brain Injury Ireland and Donegal Local Development teamed up this year to provide a range of different activities for adults with brain injuries in Donegal. Many people with brain injuries have acquired the condition through accidents slips/trips/falls, road traffic accidents or through other situational or circumstantial misfortune. ABI operate a residential care facility in Letterkenny and home care support services. With the support of the SICAP programme they have been able to develop a social gardening project, computer and arts sessions for adults with acquired brain injuries. These services provide critical socialisation opportunities for adults with the condition in a supportive environment.
Contact
Stephen Barrett - Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Social Activities - Letterkenny and Donegal Town
Partner(s) Irish Wheelchair Association Service
Social activity programmes Letterkenny & Donegal Town
About
The Irish Wheelchair Association provide a range of services for wheelchair users weekly from their facilities in both Letterkenny and Donegal Town. The group provide a vital peer support network, friendships and advocacy support services. This year the IWA partnered with Donegal Local Development to provide activities including outdoor education at Gartan Outdoor Education and Training Centre and yoga workshops.
Contact
Margaret Larkin - Letterkenny - mlarkin@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Jobs & Career Fair with Department of Social Protection
Partner(s) Donegal Local Development Department of Social Protection
42 |
Service
“Jobs and Career Advice Fair 2016” Abbey Hotel, Donegal Town
About
The Jobs & Career Advice Fair, was a joint event between Donegal Local Development and the Department of Social Protection (DSP). The event offered participants the chance to apply for full and parttime jobs, as well as to explore new career directions and featured 40 employers and 20 education and training programme providers. All of the local employers present had jobs on offer in different industries health, medical, retail, IT, tourism, hospitality, food, the defence forces, An Garda Síochána, home care, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical positions. In the region of 2,000 people received advice, guidance and information on the day.
Contact
Louise Brogan - Donegal Town - lbrogan@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Irish Local Development Network - National Enterprise Awards
Partner(s) ILDN & Local Development Companies Event
“ILDN National Enterprise Awards” Gibson Hotel, Dublin, 15th September 2016
About
This National event was organised to highlight the huge achievement of people who had previously been unemployed and had setup a new business. 18 people from across Ireland were shortlisted for the National awards from across Ireland. All nominees had previously received business development supports from their respective Local Development Companies across Ireland. The first overall winner of the event was Derek Walker ‘Simply Natural Health’ who was supported to setup in business by Colette Callaghan and Louise Brogan in Donegal Local Development. Thousands of unemployed people across the country receive valuable support to establish a business each year and the awards served as a spotlight to recognise what can be achieved with the help and support of SICAP.
Contact
Louise Brogan - Donegal Town - lbrogan@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Empowering Parents Programme
Partner(s) Disability Equality Specialist Support Agency
44 |
Service
Empowering Parents Programme
About
DESSA provides support for the parents of children and young people with disabilities, in developing selfadvocacy skills. DESSA’s Empowering Parents Programme was delivered for two groups of parents in Falcarragh and Letterkenny. The majority of parents participating had children aged up to 12 years with a disability. The programme was not impairment specific and included the parents of children and young people with different disabilities. The programme enabled parents to connect with other parents and see disability as a social equality issue. The 6 week programme sought to support parents in acquiring the knowledge and skills to effectively advocate on behalf of their children and think differently about disability.
Contact
Margaret Larkin – Letterkenny | mlarkin@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Ramelton Summer Programme
Partner(s) Community Groups Service
Developmental Summer Programmes
About
Donegal Local Development supported summer programmes activities across Donegal that had a focus on reducing poverty, promoting social inclusion, equality and improving the life chances and opportunities to those who are most disadvantaged and excluded in our society. We worked with individuals and community groups to support their needs, activities and facilitate lifelong learning opportunities. A number of these supports included summer/holiday schemes with an emphasis on learning and development, school based initiatives to preventing early school leaving and community based afterschool supports.
Contact
Susan Kierce Marsh - Letterkenny - Susan.Kiercemarsh@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Ards Walled Community Gardens - Open Day
Partner(s) Ards Walled Community Gardens
46 |
Event
Public Open Day at Community Garden
About
Ards Walled Community Gardens hosted an open day at their gardens to showcase the project to members of the local public and to encourage members of the public to visit and become members of the local garden.
Contact
Kathleen Gallagher - Letterkenny www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
We Care Foodbank Letterkenny - Awareess Raising
Partner(s) We Care Foodbank Letterkenny Service
Food for Families Experiencing Food Poverty
About
The “We Care” Foodbank in Letterkenny provides families that experience food poverty with access to one of the most fundamental and basic human needs – food. The Foodbank provides a weekly dropin service through which families can access food which has been donated to the Foodbank from different supermarkets, producers and suppliers. The group held an event in Letterkenny town centre to raise awareness of food poverty as a lived reality for many families within the community whilst informing the public about the local service. The Foodbank hopes to extend the service on an outreach basis into different communities across Donegal in the future.
Contact
Lourda Nee - Letterkenny - lnee@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Feel Good Fair - Pettigo
Partner(s) The Forge Family Resource Centre, Pettigo
48 |
Event
National Carers Week – Respite Event Feel Good Fair, Termon Complex, Pettigo
About
The Forge Family Resource Centre in Pettigo linked with SICAP to organise a respite event for family carers which was cosupported by Family Resource Centres in Pettigo, Donegal Town and Downstrands. The FRC also assisted in the coordination of a community “Feel Good Fair” at the Termon Complex in Pettigo with guest speakers, information points, massage therapies and much more. The Forge FRC provide critical children and family supports services within this isolated community area and a number of women’s and men’s support group affiliated with the centre are also supported and resourced by SICAP.
Contact
Margaret Larkin – Letterkenny mlarkin@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Children and Family Supports - Letterkenny
Partner(s) Cara House Family Resource Centre, Letterkenny Service
Support Services – Children & Families
About
Cara House worked in partnership with DLDC to provide different services for families and people who access their centre to include workshops for parents on paediatric first aid, mother and baby bonding sessions, a summer programme and support for the centres “Strollers Group.” CARA House in based at the market square in Letterkenny and provide a wide range of services to include “helping hands (DIY),” dropin support facilities for adults, a dropin crèche, a “Baby and Me” group, a coderdogo club and other services in support of children and families in the Letterkenny area.
Contact
Lourda Nee – Letterkenny – lnee@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Child & Family Supports - Ardara, Glenties, Rosbeg, Portnoo
Partner(s) Downstrands Family Resource Centre
50 |
Service
Support Services – Children & Families
About
Downstrands FRC worked in partnership with Donegal Local Development to provide supports for a number of groups that have been setup by the FRC in response to different needs identified within communities in South Donegal including “Bumps & Beyond Ardara” Parent & Toddler group, “Glenties Parents and Toddler group”, “Downstrands Women’s Group” and “Kilclooney and Ardara community gardens”. Downstrands FRC are also actively involved in men’s shed, youth projects, a community library, counselling, local history /heritage project amongst a wide range of other services within the local community. The group are based at the Dolmen Centre in Kilclooney and the services which are provided are critical within isolated rural communities in addressing gaps in services.
Contact
Margaret Larkin – Letterkenny | mlarkin@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Child & Family Supports - Donegal Town
Donegal Family Resource Centre
Partner(s) Donegal Town Family Resource Centre Service
Support Services Children and Families
About
Donegal Town FRC have setup and provide ongoing support for a number of community and voluntary groups in the town. We have had an opportunity to work with the FRC to support a newly formed Bereavement Support Group, a Women’s Group and a Chronic Pain Support group. Activities undertaken included first aid, art, music and facilitated workshops. Working collectively with other FRC’s in South Donegal, family carers were engaged with and people who experience isolation, depression and anxiety.
Contact
Margaret Larkin – Letterkenny | mlarkin@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Community & Family Supports - Letterkenny
Partner(s) Letterkenny Community Development Project
52 |
Service
Community Support Services
About
Letterkenny CDP is a voluntary group of caring and supportive people who have an ambition to improve the community for all in the Letterkenny area. The group provides a range of support programmes and services for people including personal development, adult/community education, youth work, affordable childcare, a drugs and alcohol project, intercultural project, community safety and security initiatives amongst other services. This year SICAP had an opportunity to link with the CDP in supporting and resourcing different events with Letterkenny CDP to include Bealtine, Men’s Health Checks, a Family Engagement event, Monster Ball at Halloween. Letterkenny CDP also cohosted an Intercultural celebration with Donegal Intercultural Platform. This year the group opened a new community resource facility and social economy project at the Courtyard Shopping Centre in Letterkenny.
Contact
Lourda Nee – Letterkenny | lnee@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Peer Support Group - Transgender
CONFIDENTIAL SUPPORT GROUP MEETING FORTNIGHTLY
Partner(s) Gender Identity Identity Ireland Gender Service
Ireland
Peer Support Group for Transgender and Intersex Providing peer support Individuals to transgender & About Gender Identity Ireland is a new peer support group intersex individuals based in Letterkenny that has setup to provide peer in the North West support to Transgender and Intersex people from Ireland Donegal and theof surrounding counties. Gender Identity s I’d be grateful if you could Ireland provides people with support in a safe and portLists][endif ] genderireland@gmail.com confidential space and a nonjudgemental listening ear. the DLDC logo, the SICAP @gender4ireland Identity Ireland meets fortnightly in a LCDC logo smaller in size The peer support group/Gender os that read “Irelands confidential, safe and private space. The group has ructural” and “European been supported with different aspects of their setup pportLists][endif ] and development by SICAP. der such that the DLDC logo EUROPEAN UNION
Investing in your future European Social Fund
r the LCDC logo i.e. Irelands The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2015-2017 is funded by the Irish Government and Contact Stephen Barrett - includes Letterkenny sbarrett@dldc.org co-funded by the European Social Fund and a special allocation under the Youth-Employment Initiative. ructural Funds logo comes U etc www.dldc.org Comhlucht Áitiúl Forbartha Dhún na nGall Teoranta
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Children, Family & Seniors Supports - Raphoe
Partner(s) Raphoe Family Resource Centre Raphoe Seniors Friday Club
54 |
Services
Support Services – Children and Families
About
Raphoe Family Resource Centre is based at the Volt House in Raphoe town and held an open day in June to engage local children and families letting them know about the supports available and different groups at the FRC. This year Raphoe FRC celebrated their 15 year anniversary. Amongst those groups supported by SICAP was “Little Smiles with Big Dreams” Parent & Toddler Group. We also had an opportunity to support activities at the Volt House for Raphoe Seniors Friday Club. The club provides a vital link for older people living within Raphoe and the surrounding areas with a volunteer run collection and dropoff service weekly.
Contact
Stephen Barrett - Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Family Engagement - Inver
Partner(s) Inver Community Centre Services
Christmas Themed Family Event – Inver Weekly Social Club for Older People
About
The community in Inver came together to transform their community centre into a Christmas themed winter wonderland for local children and families with music, hot chocolate, treats, children’s gifts, Mrs. Clause, Elves and of course Santa Clause himself. This event was coordinated by the centre to engage with local parents, children and families from the area. The group also provides a weekly social club for older people living in Inver and the surrounding areas with a full activity programme organised throughout the year.
Contact
Stephen Barrett - Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Farm Health, Safety & Well-being - Ramelton
56 |
www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Farm Health, Safety & Well-being - Ramelton
Partner(s)
Irish Farmers Association (IFA) Mental Health Ireland Teagasc The Health and Safety Authority, Ireland Macra na Feirme Letterkenny Institute of Technology
Event
Farm Health, Safety, Security & Wellbeing
About
The Ramelton farm of awardwinning dairy farmer John Speers, Ramelton was the site of this free public information event on “Farm Health, Safety, and Security” issues which featured a range of speakers and a practical farm walk, talk, and risk assessment.
Featured speakers at the event included Michael Chance of the IFA, William Gaffney of the Health and Safety Authority, Bill Vaughan of Mental Health Ireland, Garda Patrick McGlynn of An Garda Sióchána, IFA Farm Family representative Mabel Russell, Andrew McNamee and Shane McHugh of Teagasc, and Michael McHugh of FBD Insurance.
Students studying agricultural science courses at LYIT also attended as part of a practical health and safety farm visit.
A number of stands offering information of interest to the farming community were present at the event as well as free health checks.
Contact
Margaret Larkin – Letterkenny – mlarkin@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
South Donegal - Connect Mental Health
58 |
www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Mental Health Awareness - South Donegal Partner(s) Connect Mental Health, HSE, Mental Health Ireland, See Change, Connecting for Life Donegal, Local Schools Event(s)
Inspire Hope Community Conference – Ballyshannon Employers Workshop Letterkenny State of Mind Workshop – Donegal Town “Real Talks in Schools”
About
Connect Mental was setup by Ciaran McLoone in 2015 to promote awareness of mental health within the community and importantly to convey a message to young people that its ok not to feel ok, to start a conversation about mental health, let people know that there are many different support services available and most of all to “Inspire Hope” within the community. Ciaran with the support of a local committee, organised a full programme of events as part of world mental health awareness week in October to include a community conference “Inspire Hope,” at the Abbey Arts Centre in Ballyshannon, cinema screenings, workshops, in schools, “Real Talks,” and many of these activities were supported under Goals 1 and 2 of the SICAP programme.
Inspire Hope included talks from Ken Egan (Olympic Silver Medallist), Caroline McGuigan (founder of Suicide or Survive), Alison Canavan (Author & Model), Breifne Early (Author & World Cycle Race Winner) among other inspirational speakers and medical professionals. Alan O Maras “Real Talks” provided a meaningful conversation with students in the Abbey Vocational School, Donegal Town, Colaiste Colmcille, Ballyshannon and Magh Ene College Bundoran around mental health issues in an open way where vulnerabilities could be discussed, resilience built and the skill of listening valued. This programme is designed to enhance the current SPHE curriculum.
Contact
Stephen Barrett – Letterkenny – sbarrett@dldc.org Susan Kierce Marsh - Letterkenny - Susan.Kiercemarsh@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Active Seniors Narin/Portnoo/Lettermacaward/Doohary
Partner(s) Active Seniors: Narin/Portnoo/Lettermacaward/Doohary
60 |
Event
Various Activities & Events - 2016
About
Active Seniors Lettermacaward & Doohary coordinated a series of activities and events for seniors this year including a mad hatters tea party, an information night on wills and farm transfers, social activities at day centres, get togethers and social activities. The purpose of the group is to target the exclusion and isolation experienced by older people and those who live alone within rural communities.
Contact
Lourda Nee - Letterkenny | lnee@dldc.org Margaret Doherty – Gweedore | margaretdoherty @dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Traveller Job Coach
Partner(s) Donegal Local Development & Donegal Travellers Project
61 |
Services
Traveller Job Coach
About
Donegal Local Development’s Job Coach Maeve McIvor assisted 54 Travellers from across Donegal with their employment and training needs through one-o-none assistance and group programmes. Seventeen of Maeve’s clients became employed on either a full- or part-time basis, including two people who are working toward running their own businesses. Others participated in one or more of the well-attended employment-focussed training programmes that Maeve organised in collaboration with Donegal Travellers Project. All of the different programmes have been developed and tailored to meet the interests and the needs of the community and have been coordinated in collaboration with and the support of the SICAP programme.
Contact
Maeve McIvor - Letterkenny - mmcivor@dldc.org Susan Kierce Marsh - Letterkenny - Susan.Kiercemarsh@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Support for Traveller Families
Partner(s) Donegal Travellers Project Services
Support Services Traveller Families
About
DLDC links with Donegal Travellers Project in resourcing and supporting services for Traveller Families within Donegal. The services supported include educational supports for Traveller children, the production of a quarterly newsletter to provide critical service information to Traveller families, awareness raising on Traveller issues, rights and ethnicity as well as celebrating Traveller culture as part of National Traveller Pride week. The organisations main office is in Letterkenny with outreach services in South Donegal and Inishowen. This year Donegal Travellers Project reached a landmark in their history, celebrating their 20 Year Anniversary and we were delighted to celebrate with the organisation in their many achievements.
Contact
Stephen Barrett – Letterkenny – sbarrett@dldc.org Susan Kierce Marsh - Letterkenny - Susan.Kiercemarsh@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Child & Family Engagement - Rosnakill
63 |
Partner
Little Rascals Rosnakill
Services
Christmas Themed Family Event - Rosnakill
About
We linked with Little Rascals Playgroup in Rosnakill to organise a Christmas themed event at Rosnakill Activity Centre for children and families from the Fanad area. Local school children volunteered to take part in different plays that run simultaneously as families visited and walked through the different themed rooms in the centre with a visit to Santa and presentation of small gifts to local children. Opportunities to take part in such activities and events are not readily or openly accessible to families living within rural communities and so it is great to see the community coming together to address this gap through collective community spirt.
Contact
Stephen Barrett - Letterkenny - sbarrett@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Review & Planning - South Donegal Forum
Partner
Donegal South Forum
Services
Annual Review & Planning Community Services
About
We link with community fora and networks in North, South and East Donegal in the delivery of SICAP supports and services and this linkage with communities across Donegal is extremely important to us, not only in highlighting issues and concerns impacting particular areas but also in terms of referring groups to us in need of SICAP supports. The fora and networks collaborate with us in the delivery of different services, initiatives and events that address issues of importance within their respective areas and in planning services collectively.
Contact
Margaret Larkin - Letterkenny - mlarkin@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Review & Planning - North Donegal Community Network
Partner(s) North Donegal Community Network An Garda Síochána
65 |
Services
Annual Review & Planning Community Services
About
Garda Superintendent David Kelly met with community representatives from Cranford, Termon, Ards, Portsalon, Termon, Fanad and DLDC as part of a forum to discuss priority policing issues and needs within community areas in North Donegal. A number of joint projects are being planned by NDCN in 2017 in collaboration with An Garda Síochána in Donegal to address issues to include crime prevention, crime reporting, road safety and protecting vulnerable people from online and postal scams as well as empowering the community to prevent crime through community text alert schemes.
Contact
Stephen Barrett – Letterkenny – sbarrett@dldc.org www.dldc.org
SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Social Enterprise Exchange Networking Event
Partner(s) Donegal Local Development Event
Social Enterprise Exchange Networking (Mon 27th June)
About
This event was organised to bring together four Social Enterprise Groups with a view to getting to know each other’s projects. Two from the DLDC catchments of central Donegal and two from the Gaeltacht region. The networking event included visits to a number of craft businesses that are tourist attractions to create awareness of the creativity and culture that is taking place in the South of the County. The people who travelled on the bus were committee members, workers in the centres (C/E, CSP, TUS, JI participants) and volunteers associated with different social economy projects in South Donegal. The groups all discussed what was happening in each locality. Each group had different dynamics according to their location. Twenty one people were involved in the exchange event and all found it a very enjoyable beneficial day.
Contact
Louise Brogan – Donegal Town – lbrogan@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Social Enterprise & Sustainability Joint Networking Event
Partner(s) Donegal Development Centre Event
Social Enterprise & Sustainability Joint Networking
About
Donegal Local Development have identified twelve well established successful Social Enterprise Groups. Six from the Gaeltacht region and six from the central DLDC catchment area. The aim of the initiative is to develop a joint network to provide an opportunity for exchange of ideas and learning within the respective enterprises. With an emphasis on viability and additional income generation that will hopefully lead to job creation in the long-term. The first joint network event for the both regions took place on Friday 7th October at the’ Work House’ Dunfanaghy (one of the Social Enterprise Projects). Two additional potential income generation projects have now been identified that will link up with a number of the Social Enterprises across both regions. All present found the network event very beneficial and this will be further developed in 2017.
Contact
Louise Brogan – Donegal Town – lbrogan@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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SICAP - Empowering Communities - Donegal Local Development
Empowering Communities Working Group
Partner(s) Volunteers / Local Community Representatives Event
Review & Planning SICAP Services
About
SICAP services are planned and coordinated each year by different Working Groups of volunteers from across the community and voluntary sector in Donegal and from different statutory agencies. For example, pictured are members of our “Empowering Communities” Working Group and Donegal Local Development staff who came together in December for an annual review in Letterkenny of the service delivered in 2016 in Donegal Central. During 2016 the group supported 62 different community events / workshops and 42 different weekly social programmes across Donegal. As part of the workshop the group has planned a wide range of service for 2017 and look forward to working with partners in the delivery of these services.
Contact
Stephen Barrett – Letterkenny – sbarrett@dldc.org
www.dldc.org
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Empowering Communities Social Inclusion & Community Activation Programme (SICAP)
DLDC Letterkenny
DLDC Gweedore
1 Millennium Court Pearse Road Letterkenny Co. Donegal
Comhlacht Forbartha Aitiuil Dhun na nGall Teo Pรกirc Gnรณ Ghaoth Dobhair Doire Beaga Co. Dhun na nGall
Tel.: 07491 27056 Email: info@dldc.org
Tel.: 07495 32712 Email: info@dldc.org
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