Issue 193 - Belfast BT6 • BT7 • BT8
ORMEAU LABS FIRST LIVING WAGE HUB IN LINEN QUARTER
At Linen Quarter BID, sustainability is more than just the environment, it’s about creating a district where businesses, people, and communities can thrive together. Fair pay and inclusive economic growth remains central to that vision, and we are proud to celebrate the organisations helping lead this change across the district. Since launching our ambition to become Northern Ireland’s first sustainable district in 2021, we have continued to champion the real Living Wage as a practical way for businesses to support their employees and strengthen workplace wellbeing. After achieving our own Living Wage Accreditation in 2023, we introduced a unique incentive scheme that covers the first year of accreditation fees for BID members, currently the only scheme of its kind in Northern Ireland. Celebrating their first year from becoming an The annual celebration of good relations week 2026 will return from Monday 12th to Sunday 18th October 2026, bringing together hundreds of events focused on inclusion, belonging and community connection.
Good Relations Week 2026
Good Relations Week 2026 has officially launched with a call for people across the region to help create a society where everyone feels welcomed, valued and connected. At a time when conversations around identity, inclusion and belonging remain increasingly important across Northern Ireland, organisations, schools, councils, businesses and community groups are being encouraged to get involved in this year’s celebration under the
theme: ‘Include’. Organised by the Community Relations Council, the annual celebration of good relations, peace-building and cultural diversity will return from Monday 12th to Sunday 18th October 2026, bringing together hundreds of events focused on inclusion,
belonging and community connection. Good Relations Week has been running for over 20 years and has become one of the region’s largest and most recognised celebrations of good relations. Featuring hundreds of events organised by more than 130 organisations,
the week shines a spotlight on the important work taking place all year round across the region to strengthen relationships, celebrate diversity and create more welcoming and inclusive communities.
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accredited Living Wage Employer, Ormeau Labs continues to demonstrate the positive impact businesses can have when they put people first. Based in the historic Ormeau Baths building, Ormeau Labs has created more than a hub for innovation and collaboration, it has created a strong sense of community and inspired others around them to take action. Today, there are 29 accredited Living Wage employers in the Linen Quarter, supporting 9,305 employees, including 1,278 pay uplifts. With almost one in six jobs in Northern Ireland paid below the real Living Wage, the role businesses can play in creating positive change has never been more important.
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Issue 193 - Support Local
Issue 193 - Support Local
Autism NI calls for immediate action as new diagnosis figures revealed New statistics released recently reveal a continued rise in autism diagnosis rates across Northern Ireland, with 1 in 16 school age children now having a diagnosis of autism. The latest figures, published by the Department of Health, also show particularly high prevalence rates in Belfast, where 1 in 8 school age boys now have a diagnosis of autism. The statistics highlight an urgent need to better understand diagnosis rates and what this means for future autism services and support provision. Autism NI CEO Kerry Boyd comments: “As the latest figures have shown, there are significant disparities in autism diagnosis rates across Northern Ireland’s Health and Social Care Trusts. Northern Ireland now records one of the highest reported rates of autism prevalence internationally, with the most recent Department of Health statistics estimating that 6.2% of school-aged children, approximately one in 16, have an autism diagnosis. The Belfast Trust area continues to show the highest prevalence, with rates among boys particularly striking, estimated at around one in eight. These figures underline the urgent need
(L-R) Rebecca Allen (5) and Aaron Allen (9) from Lisburn and Autism NI’s CEO, Kerry Boyd enjoy Autism NI’s Family Fun Day at W5 to celebrate World Autism Acceptance Week. For more information visit www.autismni.org
for comprehensive research into the causes of these regional variations and the growing prevalence of autism across Northern Ireland. It is therefore essential that the Executive commissions robust, evidence-based research and develops longterm strategic planning to ensure that autistic children and their families receive the support they
need. This must include sustained investment in diagnostic pathways, early intervention, educational provision, mental health support, and adult transition services. Without meaningful forward planning and increased investment, health and education services will continue to struggle to meet rising demand, leaving too many children facing unacceptable waiting times
and inadequate support.” As a local charity, Autism NI provides life-changing services and support to thousands of autistic people and their families throughout Northern Ireland, while campaigning for greater autism acceptance and inclusion in society. For further information, please contact Autism NI on 028 9040 1729 or visit www.autismni.org
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