PEACE-PLUS funded Strabane youth project empowers 204 young people

KINSHIP Care NI received £126,865 to develop and deliver a range of cross community programmes and activities, including a Youth Club for young people living in the Strabane area.

Nathan, aged 12, was one of 204 young people who participated in the project.

Nathan said: “The staff took us to lots of different places.

“We went to Letterkenny Activity Centre, Xtreme Bounce, Lake Kilea and Wall Climbing at the Foyle Arena.

“I really enjoyed the activities and the staff were great.”

The project was funded through Derry City and Strabane District Council’s PEACEPLUS Local Co-Designed Action Plan as part of the Thriving and Peaceful Communities Theme.

Sue Divin, council’s PEACEPLUS programme manager, said: “The inclusion of a Strabane Youth Programme within council’s PEACEPLUS delivery was vital.

“In the co-design process the Strabane community clearly articulated the need for cross-community youth opportunities in the town and the surrounding areas.

“We’re delighted that Kinship Care have delivered on this two-year programme which created chances for teenagers to meet, socialise, make friends and develop skills.

“Recent tensions in Northern Ireland have shown the importance of specific peacebuilding programmes and activities for all generations.”

The Strabane Youth Project is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

The project, delivered a Cultural and Diversity Programme, a Farming and Environmental Programme and a History and Sports Programme to 204 young people.

The project also offered young people CPD accredited qualifications through its Community Leadership Programme.

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