NWCN E-bulletin: 12 November 2025
- kevin7809
- Nov 12
- 14 min read
In this edition:
The Blackburn Trust – Small Grants for Families, Women & Children in NI
Unlock Public Sector Opportunities – Join Our Tendering Workshop!
Inform, Influence, Inspire: EPIC Futures NI Findings & Insights for Policy and Practice
Information Session hosted by Foyle Women's Aid and Family Justice Centre
Just Launched: Webinars for autistic adults and parents/carers
Mayor launches Initiative to Support UNICEF’s Gaza Appeal for Children in Crisis
Request for Information: Christmas & New Year Support Leaflet for Older People
Public Appointment Vacancy - Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland
Nurse Catherine Black Exhibition & Live Performance at Monreagh Heritage Centre
NWCN Funding Fair Strabane
Tuesday 18th November 2025 10:30am – 1pm Fountain Street Community Development Association, Fountain Street, Strabane
National Lottery Community Fund
Community Relations Council
Community Foundation NI
John Moore’s Foundation
NI HE Social Enterprise Plus Programme
The Honourable The Irish Society
Heritage Lottery Fund
Join NWCN on Tuesday 18th November for a festival of funders where you will have the opportunity to hear about the latest funding on offer from a range of funding bodies. Meet with them face to face and receive guidance and advice.
Register your interest: info@nwcn.org
Gender Budgeting Workshop
Friday 14 November 10.30 to 12.30 Holywell Building, Bishop Street
NIAPN, North West Community Network and Foyle Women's Information Network have partnered to deliver a workshop on gender budgeting on Friday 14 November.
The workshop will explore what is gender budgeting and how it can be used as a tool to tackle poverty. Additionally, the workshop will hear about a gender budgeting pilot in the Derry City and Strabane District Council.
Places are limited. Please contact becca@niapn.org to book your place.
Education Authority Youth Funding now open
Youth organisations can apply for funding across a number of opportunities including Local Area Based, Regional Project, Regional Development and Regional Strategic funding.
The funding awards have a focus on universal youth services, ensuring that the EA Youth Service and the Voluntary Youth Sector can deliver quality youth services, through an open access approach and ensure youth services are open to all and delivery is based on children and young people’s needs.
All regional and local youth organisations who are registered with the EA Youth Service are eligible to apply.
Applications close on 28 November 2025.
Further information available here
Rosa - Voices from the Frontline
Rosa’s Voices from the Frontline fund, offers grants of up to £10,000 over 18 months to women’s and girls’ organisations to support campaigning and influencing work that enables women and girls to use their voice to achieve change.
Women’s and girls’ organisations are at the forefront of addressing social issues. We believe change comes about when women and girls who have lived experience of injustice and inequality get heard.
However, there remains a critical need for funding for women’s and girls’ organisations to deliver activism and campaigning to raise awareness of the issues women and girls face. This is why Voices from the Frontline exists.
The deadline for applications is 4pm on Tuesday 9th December. You need to submit your application form and video by this date.
How to apply webinar: Thursday 27th November 2.00-3.00pm – Register here
Further information available here
The Blackburn Trust – Small Grants for Families, Women & Children in NI
The Blackburn Trust provides small grants for the support of the family, including parenting initiatives and work with women and with children under 16 living in Northern Ireland.
Examples of eligible projects include:
Parenting initiatives & family support programmes
Training for volunteers or parents
Equipment or accessibility improvements for children with disabilities
Start-up costs or pilot projects for play and child development
Groups expanding to support children with disabilities
Grants average £600, with a maximum of £1,000 (and typically cover at least 10% of project costs).
Deadline: 31 January 2026
Request an application form and guidelines: trusts@cfrlaw.co.uk
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: Tuesday 27th November 2025
Location: Gasyard Centre, 128 Lecky Road, Derry BT48 6NP
Time: 1300 - 1500
Spaces are limited – reserve your spot today!
Email brian@enterprisenw.com to reserve a place on this workshop
Inform, Influence, Inspire: EPIC Futures NI Findings & Insights for Policy and Practice
EPIC Futures NI is delighted to invite you to Inform, Influence, Inspire: EPIC Futures NI 2025 Findings & Insights for Policy and Practice.
Together, we’re building evidence-based solutions for fair and inclusive employment across Northern Ireland.
Wednesday 26 November 2025.
9am arrival for tea/ coffee and networking for a 9.30am - 4:00pm event.
To confirm your attendance, please register via our Eventbrite page
This event is aimed at those working across government, policy, research, business, and the community and voluntary sector. Anyone with an interest in building a more inclusive, responsive, and evidence-informed labour market in Northern Ireland.
The day will open with reflections from the Principal Investigator of EPIC Futures Professor, Kristel Miller, who will speak to the role of place-based partnerships in addressing complex, systemic challenges. There will be an opportunity to hear new data and insights and share your views, with the aim of identifying action that we can take to create change.
At the core of the event will be presentations from eight Phase 1 funded projects and three partner led research projects, each offering a unique lens on economic activity and employability in Northern Ireland. Together, we’re building evidence-based solutions for fair and inclusive employment across Northern Ireland.
The day will conclude with discussions to consolidate key insights and identify next steps. An update on the EPIC Futures NI Phase 2 Policy Commissioning Call funding will also be shared.
If you have any questions, please contact epicfutures@ulster.ac.uk
Information Session hosted by Foyle Women's Aid and Family Justice Centre
Foyle Women’s Aid & Foyle Family Justice Centre would like to invite you to: Information Session
As part of the global 16 Days of Action campaign, Foyle Women’s Aid and Family Justice Centre invites you to an informative session focused on Domestic and Sexual Violence the realities of domestic violence in the community and services available across the Foyle area of Derry/Londonderry, Limavady and Strabane.
9th December 2025 10:00 AM - 12.30PM Guildhall, Whittaker Suite Guildhall Street, Derry-Londonderry BT48 6DQ
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
Free Training for Community & Voluntary Organisations
Facilitated by Conor McCafferty ( Zest)
15th December 2025 - Online
18th February 2026 - Online
26th November 2025 - Online
21 Jan 2026 - Online
29 & 30 Jan 2026 - Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady
ACET Training course for the Homeless Sector
ACET will be running the Online HIV STIs and Contraception Training course specifically for people working or volunteering within the Homeless Sector.
The course consists of 2 live online Zoom sessions run over:Monday 1st December AND Wednesday 3rd December 10.00-12.00
Across the 2 sessions, the course covers STIs, Blood Borne Viruses (HIV, Hepatitis B and C) Contraception, Prevention and Sexual Health Services.
It will be suitable for anyone working or volunteering in the Homeless Sector in Northern Ireland who would like to improve their understanding of sexual health, and how to promote sexual health within their own context.
The course is funded by the Public Health Agency so free of charge to participants.
Just Launched: Webinars for autistic adults and parents/carers
Autism NI are excited to launch brand new on-demand webinars designed specifically for autistic adults.
Plus: we have expanded our range of on-demand webinars for parents/carers of autistic children.
Topics include:
Anxiety and self-care
Executive functioning
Building a positive autistic identity
These pre-recorded sessions are available for you to access at a time that suits you, so you can learn at your own pace and in your own environment.
Please note: These webinars are funded by National Lottery Awards for All, and are only available to autistic adults and parents/carers of autistic people (pre or post diagnosis).
Mayor launches Initiative to Support UNICEF’s Gaza Appeal for Children in Crisis
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, has today announced details of a major new Council-wide initiative encouraging local communities, schools, and businesses to fundraise for UNICEF’s Gaza Appeal for Children in Crisis.
The initiative is timed to coincide with World Children’s Day on November 20th, UNICEF’s global day for action for children and to mark the Council's status as a UNICEF Child Friendly City and Community.
The Mayor is appealing to all sectors of the community to organise events or activities between November 17th and 23rd to raise vital funds. Activities can include cookouts, collections, sponsored challenges, and non-uniform days.
Register Your Event: Interested participants should register their activity by clicking hereFor individuals wishing to donate directly to the appeal, the following channels are available: Just Giving: Donations can be made online via the dedicated Just Giving page
Volunteers will be holding official street collections in Derry and Strabane on Thursday 20th November 2025.
All funds raised through this Mayoral Initiative will be donated to the UNICEF Gaza Appeal for Children in Crisis to support their work in providing essential supplies and services.
Request for Information: Christmas & New Year Support Leaflet for Older People
As we approach the festive season, DCSDC wish to pull together a leaflet for older people, which highlights local support, activities, and services available over the Christmas and New Year period.
The leaflet aims to help older residents stay connected and informed during what can be a difficult and isolating time for many. I’d like to include as many services as possible, particularly those offering:
Drop-in sessions, befriending, or community meals
Telephone support or check-in services
Any other practical or wellbeing support
Details of opening hours and closures over the holidays
I would really appreciate it if you could share your organisation’s details (or any other relevant services you’re aware of) by Friday 29 November so we can ensure everything is included in time for distribution.
Please complete form attached
We know this is a busy time for everyone, but your input really helps make this resource as comprehensive and useful as possible.Thank you in advance for your support and for all the work you do to reduce loneliness in our community.
An Evening with Cecil Frances Alexander
EVENT: An Evening with Cecil Frances Alexander Where: at The Old Rectory, Fahan Who: Presented by The Churches Trust When: Saturday, 15 November 2025 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The Churches Trust will host a unique celebration of poet and hymnist Cecil Frances Alexander at The Old Rectory in Fahan, her former home, for An Evening with Cecil Frances Alexander — an immersive event of music, light sculpture, spoken word, and historical reflection.
This special evening, funded by PEACEPLUS which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and supported by Derry City and Strabane District Council, honours the enduring and unifying legacy of Cecil Frances Alexander — known for timeless works such as “All Things Bright and Beautiful” and “There is a Green Hill Far Away.”
We extend heartfelt thanks to the Dorrian Family for opening their home in memory of the late Mrs. Pat Dorrian (née Carlin), who held deep admiration for Alexander’s humanitarian work and literary achievements.
Programme Highlights
Panel Discussion (6:00 – 7:30 PM) – Historians Gordon Smyth (Christchurch, Strabane), Elizabeth Fielding (Friends of St. Columb’s Cathedral, Derry), and Eva Baxter (Enniskillen) explore the impact and charitable legacy of Alexander’s life and writings.
Parlour Concert (7:30 – 9:00 PM) – Enjoy an intimate performance by acclaimed folk trio The Henry Girls from Malin, Inishowen, renowned for their harmonious blend of Irish roots and contemporary sound.
Spoken Word & Poetry Recital – Hosted by Kathy Donaghy, award-winning journalist and author of Finding My Wild, featuring original works from members of our Each Bird Sings writing workshops held in Strabane in September.
Mini Museum & Light Sculpture Trail – Artifacts from St. Columb’s Cathedral’s Alexander collection, curated by Bridgeen Rutherford inside the house and a magical outdoor light installation, by the Inishowen Carnival Group, in the garden.
Craft & Creativity – A crochet workshop with textile artist Anna Stainsby.
The evening will be hosted by an actor portraying Cecil Frances Alexander, directed by Ruth Garvey Williams of Living Breath Productions, known for bringing historical figures vividly to life.
Light refreshments will be served, provided by Corner Coffee of Carndonagh.
A House of History
The Old Rectory holds deep historical significance — it was here that Cecil Frances Alexander lived with her husband, William Alexander, and gave birth to two of their four children during their five years in residence.
Tickets are extremely limited. To inquire or join the waiting list, please contact The Churches Trust, sineadsmyth@thechurchestrust.org.uk
Let us come together in music, memory, and light to honour one of Ireland’s most cherished voices.
International Men’s Day Event
One of Omagh’s men’s support group, Men's Healthy Minds, are celebrating their 2nd anniversary on International Men’s Day, 19th of November, 2025.
To celebrate this and International Men’s Day, Men’s Healthy Minds (MHM) are hosting an evening not to be missed in Canavans, Garvaghy, on Wednesday, 19th November at 7.30pm.
The global theme for International Men’s Day 2025 is “Supporting Men and Boys”. This helps to promote positive conversations about men and masculinity, raising awareness for men’s health and well-being, and fostering male allyship.
In line with this the theme of our evening is “Bridging the Generations” where we will have a panel discussion on various topics, such as social media, the influence of influencers, and dating. It will look at the different perspectives of both generations. The panel will consist of a group of 18-25 year old men, and a group of 40+ year old men.
We will follow this up with and evening of stand up comedy. The headline act is Ronan Boyle, along with Eamon McElwee, and we also have a guest slot with our very own Conor Keys.This promises to be a great event for both men and women.
MHM meets on the 2nd Sunday of each month in The Sandwich Co, 50 Market St, Omagh, and provides a safe, non-judgemental and respectful space where men can connect over a coffee, and share the wins and challenges of daily life.
So why not come along on Wednesday, 19th November for a night of discussion and comedy, and you’ll be supporting our local Men’s Group, MHM.
The link to purchase tickets is:https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/RZZCZBBT2FGYU For further details contact Donal Rowan 07881912413 Or Mandy Chism (mandy@resilio-ni.org)
Latest Offers from Salto Youth
Please see attached document for the latest offers from Salto Youth, including:
Food For Good Club Online
Massive Open Online Course on European Solidarity Corps 2025
Returning to Earth — Pathways to Ecological Awakening
Networks in Bloom
Conversations that matter: From the Heart to the World
The Bytes Project seeks new Board Members
Join the Board of The Bytes Project Project or Subsidiaries!
Are you passionate about empowering young people and strengthening communities across Northern Ireland? The Bytes Project seeks new Board Members for our parent charity and its dynamic subsidiaries: Youth Hubs and Bytes Digital Innovation Ltd.
For over 30 years, Bytes has supported thousands of young people, families, and communities through innovative youth work, digital inclusion, and social action. In the past two years alone, we’ve:
Engaged 2,500+ young people across thirteen youth hubs
Supported 800+ families and 200+ volunteers
Achieved 892 qualifications and helped dozens into employment or education
Delivered 78 community improvement projects and 45 shared education sessions
Raised over £8,000 for local causes and supported hundreds of children and elderly residents
We’re looking for directors with skills in: Risk management, finance (especially VAT), property, procurement, legal, HR, youth services, digital mental health, social enterprise, and technology (especially digital inclusion). We especially welcome applications from women and underrepresented groups.
As a Board Member, you’ll help shape strategy, ensure good governance, and champion our mission: We will create consistent and dependable local youth services where young people reach their potential and contribute to the community and society (read more about our new strategy at www.bytes.org).
Interested? Email - stephen.dallas@bytes.org
Public Appointment Vacancy - Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland
Competition to appoint a new Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland.
The Executive Office has today launched a competition to appoint a new Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland (PONI).
For more detailed information and how to apply please go to: https://irecruit-ext.hrconnect.nigov.net/
Completed application forms must be returned no later than 28th November 2025.
The Quirky Corner Fashion Fest 2025
QC Fashion Fest 2025 The Quirky Corner ‘Local Edit’ Runway
We are so excited to announce the second year of our Charity Fashion Fest this year with a 'Local Edit' Twist, guaranteed be an amazing day out!Expect special guests, live music, local stalls, an influencer corner, not to mention the 'best dressed' prizes!
Our Host for the afternoon is the one and only Micky Doherty ready to bring the fun to our Show
Sunday 16th November 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM Waterfoot Hotel, Derry Don’t miss out on one of our biggest events of the year, all in support of HURT, Have Your Tomorrows Tickets: £22 Available at The Quirky Corner or get your ticket here
Nurse Catherine Black Exhibition & Live Performance at Monreagh Heritage Centre
We are delighted to share that the Catherine Black Exhibition will be hosted at Monreagh Heritage Centre near Carrigans village, County Donegal, from Monday 24 November to Friday 28 November, 12 noon to 3pm daily. This special display celebrates one of Donegal’s most remarkable women.
Catherine Black was born in Ramelton in 1878 and trained as a nurse at the Royal London Hospital. She served with courage on the front lines during World War I, caring for wounded soldiers in France and Belgium. After the war she became private nurse to King George V and remained with him until his death in 1936. Known as “Blackie”, she later published her memoir “King’s Nurse, Beggar’s Nurse”, which offers vivid insight into wartime nursing and royal service. Despite her distinguished career, she stayed deeply proud of her Donegal roots.
The exhibition includes newspaper reviews of her memoir, notes and cards from the Royal Family, rare photographs of old Ramelton, images from her travels and nursing career, her nursing qualification certificates and the official funeral booklet of King George V. It is a thoughtful tribute to an extraordinary life.
Dates: Monday 24 to Friday 28 November Time: 12 noon to 3pm daily Venue: Monreagh Heritage Centre, Carrigans, County Donegal
A live theatre performance will also take place on Friday 28 November at 2pm. Sister Black is a powerful one-woman play written and performed by Maggie Hannon, a Ramelton-based actress, writer and former doctor. The play brings Catherine Black’s story to life with honesty, emotional depth and gentle humour. Maggie’s medical background gives her performance a rare authenticity as she carries the audience from the wards of London during the First World War to the quiet strength of a Donegal woman whose compassion shaped every stage of her life.
The performance begins at 2pm. We look forward to welcoming you.
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