Documents 186 days overdue
Overdue: 186 days
- Charity no. 109837
- Date registered. 27/11/2023
Public benefits
The main benefits flowing from our organisation are community pride, engagement and active citizenship. Ardcarn is a small, working-class estate without a widely-known reputation or identity. Through the work of our organisation, it has become a well-renowned example of community invigoration in East Belfast. our group has helped to foster a sense
of belonging and pride. We are also very rooted in giving a voice to working-class community members who may otherwise struggle to engage with official channels. By liaising with organisations like the Housing Executive, council and elected representatives, people feel empowered to tell what matters to them in their area. They can then be equipped with the knowledge and means of amplifying these.They stand to gain from improvements in infrastructure, public services, and the overall economic and social landscape. These improvements can lead to an enhanced standard of living, better employment opportunities, and increased access to essential resources and amenities. Celebrating local culture, history, and traditions in a respectful way is fundamental to preserving the unique identity of Ardcarn. This cultural preservation not only strengthens the community's sense of identity but also serves as a source of pride. It is a reminder of the community's heritage and what makes Ardcarn a special place to live. [How can the benefits identified above be demonstrated?] Attendance at community events has been increasing with each one hosted. We regularly receive thanks and encouragement from residents, for example on our Facebook page. Our Chatty Bench and its benefit was featured on BBC NI 'Community Life' programme. Our oral histories booklets have been given to every Ardcarn resident and are being donated to organisations across East Belfast, such as EastSide Partnership. Ardcarn Local Residents Group has been nominated for a Kings Award for voluntary service by East Belfast Community Development Agency. We plan to conduct a community satisfaction survey in the coming months to gauge benefits and areas for improvement. [Is there any harm arising from any of the purposes?] No The beneficiaries are the people living in the Ardcarn area. This applies to those presently residing there as well as future generations, as their well-being and quality of life will hopefully be improved by our initiatives. [Is there any private benefit flowing from any of the purposes? Is it incidental and necessary?] None
What your organisation does
So far, the activities of our group in striving to fulfil its purpose have been wide-ranging. At the basic end, we have set-up a community Facebook page for people in the area to keep in touch and have access to contact details of elected representatives. We have installed a community noticeboard in Carnet House flats and aim to install one on the
main green, to keep people updated of local activities. Alongside with several other groups in East Belfast, we were chosen as a spot to erect a 'Chatty Bench' to combat loneliness and isolation. Other activities have included regular litter-picks and clean-ups of the local area, which are always well-attended by local residents. Recently, we engaged in a 9-month project with Corrymeela which culminated in the publication of a booklet of oral histories, collected through interviews with Ardcarn residents. Hosting community events e.g. fun days and trips to cultural shows, encourages community interaction and cohesion. We also facilitate community information days, inviting relevant organisations in East Belfast to advertise their services. We were also designated as a key distributor of vouchers when the roll-out of the Belfast City Council fuel hardship fund was implemented.
The charity’s classifications
- The advancement of citizenship or community development
Who the charity helps
- General public
How the charity works
- Advice/advocacy/information