Northern Ireland Housing Executive

Northern Ireland Housing Executive investment provided funding for 5 projects through the Live Here Love Here Small Grants Scheme;

 Shankill (Lurgan) Community Projects upgraded their community garden which were underused by the community. The group transformed the area by creating a sustainable space where plants, fruit, vegetables/other vegetation grow and flourish, improving the area's greening, biodiversity and pollination. The new space has attracted local people and members of community organisations who use the facility. It has allowed people to take part in horticulture activities, socialise among nature and enjoy the social, emotional and mental benefits of nature engagement. Volunteers report reduction of the negative effects of social isolation.

Saints Youth Centre developed existing space and fixed old resources to attracting more young people and adults, to a space used for outdoor learning, planting,  gardening , learning about the world and creating a space to have pride and ownership of. Investment in plants, trees, tools & materials have enabled creation of learning opportunities for young people rather than relying on technology. The project has helped promote positive mental & physical wellness while creating a sense of ownership.

Magilligan Community Garden project has transformed a space into a beautiful area to sit and relax.  It is now a space that gives the local community an opportunity to engage with the surrounding natural beauty of Binevenagh and the mountains of Innishowen. Planting this area has encouraged more wildlife and pollinators where before there was no habitat or food. The neighbouring playgroup enjoy the space and use it as an outdoor classroom.  There is no other local space that is easily accessible and open to the whole community. 

Saint Mary’s Scouts 1st 2nd & 3rd Creggan project has given the scouts and cubs a focus and ti immerse themselves in the concept of growing food. Having provided fruit trees & bushes, raised beds, vegetable seeds and plants, to allow the group to be self sufficient. A collaboration project with Boys Brigade Killfennan provided a cross community friendship that will bloom and grow stronger and stronger. Funding enabled promotion of sustainable growing activities, enhancing understanding of biodiversity and use of resources to explore healthy living.

Tyndale Residents Group created a garden of reflection where the community can take time out and appreciate nature and enjoy the environment. The original space was neglected and unused so the funding was utilised to transform it into a space of beauty with wild flowers to increase pollination and feed the bees. Fruit trees were also added. The creation of this garden has improved residents well-being, encouraging a sense of ownership, pride and community spirit. Young people are involved and upskilled and antisocial behaviour has ceased.