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E-bulletin: 26 November 2025

  • kevin7809
  • Nov 27, 2025
  • 11 min read

In this edition



  1. NWCN AGM

NWCN would like to invite you to our Annual General Meeting:


Friday 12th December 2025 10:30am Gasyard Centre, Function Room, 128 Lecky Road Refreshments provided


If you are going to join us, please let us know by emailing info@nwcn.org




  1. The Fore - Registration open for Spring 2026 Funding Round

Registration will be open for one week from 12pm (midday) on Wednesday 26th November to 12pm (midday) on Wednesday 3rd December.


The Fore funds small charities that make a big impact.


We offer unrestricted funding of up to £45,000 over one to three years, to have a transformational impact on your whole organisation, supporting growth, structure, sustainability or efficiency.


We see applicants as experts in their fields. We also know that many of the best people who run small charities don’t have lots of fundraising experience. Our approach is designed to level the playing field.


We encourage applications from organisations working with underserved communities, and those who have struggled to access trust and foundation funding in the past. We are proud to have been one of the first grant funders for many of our portfolio charities.


Further information available here


Question Time with The Fore - Today - Nov 26 from 12pm to 1pm


Register here for the opportunity to hear from The Fore and pose your own questions before registering your interest on our next funding round.




  1. Programme with Grant to Engage More Women and Girls in Sport (NI)

Engage Her is a volunteer-supported programme designed to increase grassroots clubs/groups’ understanding and knowledge on how to help engage women and girls from their local area.


With funding from the National Lottery, the programme is being delivered as part of Sport NI’s Be Seen, Be Heard, Belong campaign, which aims to level the playing field and ensure that women and girls have the same opportunities as men and boys in sport.  Through training and resources, clubs will be supported to develop a plan to engage women and girls within their sport, to challenge attitudes and remove barriers to participation and to increase capacity to provide opportunities for women and girls activities. Each club will receive an unrestricted grant of £2,000 to support the implementation of their engagement plan.


Not-for-profit organisations, including charities, community groups and traditional sports clubs, based in Northern Ireland can apply.


Priority will be given to applications from organisations that operate in and support people from areas of high deprivation.


The deadline for expressions of interest is 8 December 2025 (17:00). For more information, and to apply, please visit www.sported.org.uk/engage-her




  1. National Lottery Awards for All - Northern Ireland briefing session

The National Lottery Community Fund in Northern Ireland are hosting a lunch time information session to tell you more about their ever-popular small grants programme, National Lottery Awards for All.


Monday 8th December 2025, 12:30PM - 1:30PM Register your place here

This session is for voluntary or community organisations based in Northern Ireland who are seeking funding between £300 to £20,000, for projects lasting up to two years, to deliver activity in their community.


The session is open to everyone but is aimed primarily at groups who have not applied to National Lottery Awards for All Northern Ireland before or who would like a refresher on the programme aims and application criteria.


At the session you will receive advice on how you can check that your project and organisation are eligible to apply and how you can make sure you have provided the right info on your application form.


We recommend that you have a look at the webpage guidance to ensure your organisation is eligible to apply before you reserve your spot. Find out more at https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/programmes/awards-for-all-northern-ireland




  1. Social Enterprise NI: Regional Networking Event

15 January 2026, 10am - 12pm The Enterprise Hub, North West Business Complex, Skeoge.


Are you passionate about making a positive impact in your community? Do you believe in the power of business to drive social change? Are you looking to connect with like-minded individuals and fellow social enterprises and stakeholders in the sector. If so, we invite you to join us for the Social Enterprise Regional Meeting!


Why Attend?

  1. Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow social entrepreneurial leaders and partners who share your vision for a better world.

  2. Inspiring Speakers: Hear from industry experts and pioneers in social enterprise who will share their insights and experiences.

  3. Community Wealth Building: Be a part of a supportive community dedicated to using business as a force for good.


Who Should Attend?

  • Social Entrepreneurs We would encourage social enterprises from within the local area to attend, but also encourage any social enterprise who wants to connect/extend their reach within that area, to also attend.

  • Local Businesses Interested in Social Impact Do you want to find out more about the diverse range of social enterprises in the country, why not come along and network and start building relationships

  • Anyone Passionate About Social Change If you haven’t  yet started your social enterprise journey but would like to find out more about Social Enterprise, why not come along, network and hear from established Social Enterprises.


To register, please click the BOOK NOW button and complete the form.And if you need any further information please contact catherine@socialenterpriseni.org 




  1. Unlock Public Sector Opportunities – Join Our Tendering Workshop!

Are you part of a community & voluntary group or a social enterprise looking to explore new opportunities within the public sector and grow your impact?


The North West Community Wealth Building Partnership invites you to join us for an interactive workshop designed to introduce you to tendering for public sector contracts. Learn how to navigate the process, understand requirements, and position your organisation to win contracts that align with your mission and support the sustainability of your organisation. Build the knowledge, confidence and skills to apply for public sector contracts after attending this workshop.


What you’ll gain:

  • A clear understanding of public sector procurement landscape

  • Practical steps to get started with tendering

  • Insights from experts and real-world examples


Date: Thursday 27th November 2025 Location: Gasyard Centre, 128 Lecky Road, Derry BT48 6NP Time: 1300 - 1500Spaces are limited – reserve your spot today! Email brian@enterprisenw.com to reserve a place on this workshop




  1. Free OCN Level 1 - Community Development Practice


Start Date: 13th January 2026

Time: 10-12 noon (fortnightly) 

Duration: 8 weeks (4 sessions)

Location: The Churches Trust Office, Limavady Road


For more information or to register, please email margaretbonner@thechurchestrust.org.uk



 
  1. NLCF - Community Learning Panel

We want your help to shape and improve the services we offer.


We’re creating a new Community Learning Panel to gather views from across the UK on our learning products, to advise us, give feedback and help us design services that enable communities to learn, connect and develop.


Your organisation will be paid for the time you commit to working with us, including reimbursing travel expenses for any in-person meetings or events.


We’re aiming for a balance of representation across sectors, organisation sizes and communities, ensuring voices from diverse backgrounds, lived experiences, and areas of need are included.


If you have an active grant with us and want to express your interest, please complete our short form by clicking this link: https://ow.ly/FcP150Xxmx5 


The closing date for Expressions of Interest is Tuesday 16 December. We’ll be in touch with all applicants to let you know the outcome and next steps.




  1. Reclaim the Night

Recognise women’s journey to peace by joining Foyle Women’s Information Network’s walk across The Peace Bridge.


29th November 2025, 5pm – 6:30pm Meeting Point: From 5pm, Ebrington Square Route: Depart at 5:30pm, across the Peace Bridge End point: Guildhall Square Final thoughts: From 6pm, guest speakers




  1. 30 Under 30 Climate Change-Makers 2025/26 programme is now OPEN

Are you aged 30 and under? Got a passion for the environment and climate change? Or maybe you know someone who does? 


The 30 Under 30 Climate Change-Makers 2025/26 programme is now OPEN for applications.Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful is searching for the next generation of leaders driving climate action and inspiring positive change. Don’t miss this opportunity to join an incredible network of change-makers working together for a more sustainable future.


Find out more and start your application today. Closing date 7th Decemberhttps://pulse.ly/kfkhxeeo6i




  1. Job Opportunity with Aware NI

Education & Training Officer Location: Derry/Londonderry Office of AWARENI with a regional remit (Hybrid working) Reports to: Education & Training Manager Direct Reports: Sessional Trainers Salary Scale: £26,500- £30,000 (candidates will normally be appointed at the start of the scale) Hours: 35hrs per week Duration of Contract: Permanent Holiday Entitlement: 25 days per annum


Role: To assist in the overall development, co-ordination, and evaluation of AWARE NI’s Education and Training programmes.


Send your online application by Thursday 4th December at 4pm by 12noon

All details can be found in the attached Job Pack




  1. Foyle JBO- Upcoming Events

Now Group Foyle JBO Wednesday 26th November 2pm-3:30pm A representative from the Now Group will be in Foyle Jobs & Benefits Office tomorrow, Wednesday 26th November from 2pm-3:30pm. The organisation offers a range of services that support people with learning difficulties and autism. Their services focus on supporting people into employment, training, transition, and volunteering.They also offer a family service to support new and expectant parents with a learning difficulty or autism. If you would like to find out more about the organisation, please call in 


Barclays Local Specialist Drop In Foyle JBO Wednesday 3rd December 10am-12pm Leon, the Barclays Local Specialist will be in Foyle Jobs & Benefits Office on Wednesday 3rd December 10am-12pm The Barclays Local Specialist can provide support with managing money, banking, setting up bank account, financial and mental wellbeing They can offer free learning resources and support to help build confidence in areas including digital skills and being online There is also a range of support for those on self-employment journeys 


USEL Drop In Foyle JBO Monday 8th December 11am-1pm Tracy from USEL’s Empower programme will be available to discuss the Empower programme has been designed to help adults who are living with a disability or long-term health condition develop new skills and gain the confidence to get into the workplace. Empower can offer support to:

  • Identify key strengths and areas where support is required

  • Search for work

  • Update CVs

  • Complete job applications

  • Improve interview skills

  • Build self-confidence

  • Gain qualifications

  • Gain work experience

  • Secure a job or get into self-employment

  • Stay in work 


Disability Action Drop In Foyle JBO Wednesday 10th December 10am-12pm Maura from Disability Action will be in Foyle Jobs & Benefits Office on Wednesday 10th December from 10am-12pm. Maura will be discussing the empower programme which is a comprehensive programme designed for individuals aged 16 and above who have not worked in the last 4 weeks due to disabilities or health conditions. The programme is delivered with a strengths-based focus, providing tailored guidance, and holistic support. What empower offers:

  1. Personalised Job Search

  2. CV Enhancement

  3. Job Application Assistance

  4. Interview Preparation

  5. Boosting Self-Confidence

  6. Qualification Opportunities

  7. Work Experience Placement

  8. Pathways to Employment

Anyone interested is welcome to call in on the day to have a chat with Maura


CMP Clinic Foyle JBO Thursday 15th January 10:30am-12:30pm Representatives from the Condition Management programme (CMP) will be in the office to discuss their voluntary programme which can offer up to 12 sessions with a health care professional.CMP could help you if you have a health condition which affects your ability to work, return to work or to stay in work. It offers help with dealing with stress and anxiety, managing low mood and depression, coping with pain and fatigue, developing a healthier lifestyle, and exploring potential work options.Please note potential participants must have an interest in progressing into/ remaining in work and participation on the programme is subject to eligibility criteria. For more information you can book an appointment through a Work Coach in the jobs and benefits office or call in on the day. 




  1. Latest Offers from Salto Youth

Please see attached document for the latest offers from Salto Youth, including:


  • Crafting desirable futures through animation

  • Learning Sustainability through Gamified Micro-Learning Experiences

  • Meet your future - Tools to navigate the future of youth work

  • Trauma-Informed Approach in Youth Work

  • Be Yourself




  1. Midwinter Gala Christmas Concert

Season Four opens on 4 December 2025 with a firecracker programme of baroque brilliance, with music by J.S Bach and Handel.


Kindly sponsored by Alchemy Technology Services, part of NTT Data, and the Dutch Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in London, the concert features internationally-acclaimed Irish Mezzo-Soprano, Tara Erraught.


The programme will be played on authentic historic instruments and marks the launch of the Le Foyer des Artistes singers.


Date: Thursday, 4 December 2025 Concert Time: Promptly at 7:30 PM Venue: St. Columb’s Hall in Derry


The concert programme features the exciting launch of the Le Foyer des Artistes Singers in a celebration of baroque brilliance. Experience beautiful music by J.S Bach and Handel played on authentic historic instruments.  We are especially thrilled to welcome Irish mezzo-soprano - Tara Erraught.


Book your tickets now for the hottest date this Winter as we look forward to celebrating together the beginning of the Christmas season with you.





  1. Eden Place Arts Centre Christmas Exhibition

You are cordially invited to the launch of our Christmas Exhibition of work created this term on Monday 15th December @ 7pm. The exhibition will be available to view on Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th December from 9.30am-7.30pm.


If you have taken part in any of our courses this term please click on the link below to fill out our feedback form (it will only take a minute!)





  1. Christmas Toy Drive

Every child deserves a gift this Christmas!


We'll be helping Santa by gathering and wrapping gifts from the local community. You can help us make this happen by donating unwrapped toys and gift vouchers (up to the value of £20 per voucher) for children aged 0-18.


Please do not bring clothing (accessories such as hats, gloves, & scarves are okay) or perishable food items.


You can drop off all donations off at Holywell Trust, Bishop Street. Please do so by the 18th December to make sure our elves get them wrapped and ready to be delivered in time!


If you need more information or have any questions contact us: Tel: +44 (0) 28 71 266 291 Email: info@fwin.org.uk




  1. Santa Paws is coming to town

Action Mental Health brings Santa Paws to the Garden of Refection on Thursday 4th December from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.


Bring your pet along with a discount voucher (which can be collected from any shop in the Cathedral Quarter) to get your pets photo with Santa; only £10.   While you wait for the print, visit our Mini Craft Fair for homemade cards, crafts, gift ideas, decorations, & 2026 Wellbeing calendar.   Give a socially conscious gift this year.


All funds raised will go towards Action Mental Health Foyle recovery programmes & activities




  1. Accessible Performances of Beauty and the Beast

Millennium Forum Productions presents: Beauty and the Beast


  • Wednesday 3 December @ 7pm Signed Performance

  • Sunday 7 December @ 1.30pm Relaxed & Dementia Friendly Performance

  • Sunday 21 December @ 1.30pm Audio Described Performanc

  • Sunday 28 December @ 5.30pm Live Captioned Performance


As part of our inclusive programme every show will contain a song performed using MakatonBox Office 71 264455 (option 1) Website




  1. Translink - Late bus and train services

As the festive season begins, Translink is pleased to announce an enhanced schedule of late-night bus and train services for Derry~Londonderry.


For those travelling further afield, late 212 Goldliner services currently run from Foyle Street for Belfast departing at 23:00 on Friday and Saturday nights. The 212 service also offers late-night departures from Belfast Grand Central Station to Derry~Londonderry with departures at 00:15 and 01:15, Friday and Saturday


 In addition, a range of later Foyle Metro services also operate throughout the week.


For full timetable information, visit www.translink.co.uk




Submit an article - Email info@nwcn.org.


Please note that the e-bulletin goes out once per week on a Wednesday, please have your article for inclusion with NWCN by Tuesday afternoon 


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The information in this E-Bulletin has been collated from a range of sources. NWCN does not however accept responsibility for any third party content or for any of the opinions expressed.

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