top of page
NWCN Tree Logo.png

NWCN E-bulletin: Community jobs, funding and opportunities

  • Writer: Kevin Burns
    Kevin Burns
  • 9 hours ago
  • 10 min read

Welcome to the new edition of the NWCN E-bulletin, the best source of community jobs, funding and opportunities in the North West of Ireland.

In this edition

  1. Which? Fund Accepting Applications for 2026 Funding Round 

Which?, the UK’s consumer champion, is offering grants to UK-registered charities, universities with exempt charitable status, and not-for-profit Community Interest Companies registered in the UK, to support research projects aiming to improve understanding of the specific consumer harms that diverse and disadvantaged communities experience, and develop evidence-based solutions. 

This year, Which? Has made £75,000 available for proposals specifically in two policy areas:

  • Next-generation energy business models supporting the clean energy transition.

  • Online choice architecture. 

In each of these areas, Which? is interested in funding work that:

  • Improves understanding of consumer harms affecting diverse and disadvantaged communities in relation to these topics.

  • Identifies and tests evidence led, pragmatic solutions to consumer harm experienced by diverse and disadvantaged communities in these areas.

  • Develops partnerships and encourages collaborative work around these topics. 

There is no set minimum or maximum grant. It is anticipated that a small number of high-quality projects will be funded.

There is a two-stage application process. Groups should submit a stage one application form, being shortlisted to complete a full application. 

The deadline to submit a Stage One application is 30 March 2026. 

For more information, please visit The Which? Fund - Which? Policy and insight

  1. Hinrichsen Foundation

Grants of between £500 and £3,000 are available for charities and organisations across the UK to deliver music projects that focus on the performance, commissioning, or recording of contemporary music.

The Hinrichsen Foundation will support projects and activities that:

  • Align with The Hinrichsen Foundation's values and objectives for contemporary and experimental music.

  • Express a clear programme of activity and project timeline, parameters, and outputs

  • Deliver high-quality projects for diverse audiences, prioritising the cultivation of less familiar and experimental music appreciation.

  • Embrace artistic risks and diversity.

  • Encourage thoughtful collaboration among composers, musicians, and project leads.

  • Ensure fair payment for composers and musicians, particularly in larger organisations.

  • Demonstrate the financial need and feasibility of the proposed project.

Applications that take artistic risks, promote diversity, consider sustainability, or are artist-led are encouraged.

The Foundation rarely supports projects where it is the sole funder. Applicants are expected to indicate another source of income, either secured or projected.

The deadline for applications is 13 March 2026, 5pm.

Further information available here


  1. Ulster-Scots Community Festivals Grant 

The Ulster-Scots Agency has opened its Ulster-Scots Community Festivals Grant for 2026/27. 

The funding stream will support the delivery of community festivals throughout Ulster from 1 June 2026 to 31 May 2027. 

Groups interested in applying should visit the Ulster-Scots Agency website for further information https://ow.ly/qS4j50Y9NRR 

Deadline for applications is 3pm on Monday 9 March 2026.


  1. Grow Wild Youth Grant programme

Applications for our UK-wide Grow Wild Youth Grant programme will open in mid February 2026. 

Are you aged 16–25 and live in the UK? Apply for a £500 Grow Wild grant to bring your nature project to life this summer!

We are calling on young individuals to come up with a project idea to champion UK native plants and/or fungi.  

What You Get

  • A £500 grant for your project. This can be used for anything you might need such as materials, equipment, resources and training to develop your skills.

  • Support, online sessions and resources from Grow Wild.

  • Opportunities to connect with other participants across the UK and see your project featured in a collective portfolio.

  • The chance to complete Kew's Young Environmental Leader Award designed to work alongside your Grow Wild project and recognise your achievements. 

Attend our webinar for applicants and supporting organisation contacts on Tuesday 24 February 2026, 12.30pm.  Register to attend the webinar 

Further information available here


  1. AMH Foyle Appeal - Stop Cuts To Mental Health Service

Help STOP the UK Gov cuts to Community & Voluntary Sector across NI. Action Mental Health FOYLE provide vital Mental Health Services to the Community.

Please Help: You Can Take Action on Mental Health by signing the petition. Every signature counts;  https://www.amh.org.uk/ni-cant-wait/ Thank you


  1. Invitation to Victim Support's 2026 Annual Conference

Victim Support NI is pleased to invite you to our upcoming annual conference: From Harm, to Help, to Hope: Balancing the Scales

Date: 24th February 2026 Time: 9.30am - 3.00pm Venue: Crumlin Road Gaol, Belfast

Our annual conference will bring together key voices from across society, including academics, journalists, victims, and professionals working within the criminal justice sector, to explore how we can address the harm, through help, to foster hope.

The event will officially launch Victim Support NI’s new corporate strategy as well as explain its new Road to Recovery Project, which demonstrates how trauma-informed, recovery-focused support can help victims regain control, rebuild resilience, and move forward beyond the justice process.

With contributions from the judiciary and policymakers, the Rabble Cooperative, the Centre for Protecting Women Online, Criminal Justice Inspection Northern Ireland, and Queen’s University Belfast, the conference will highlight innovative approaches to improving outcomes for victims across all types of crime.

We only have a limited number of tickets available so book your place ASAP here: From Harm, to Help, to Hope: Balancing the Scales Tickets, Tue, Feb 24, 2026 at 9:30 AM | Eventbrite


  1. JRCT Gender Budgeting Conference

Wednesday, Jun 17 from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Ulster University, York St, Belfast

Join us to conclude and reflect on 7 years of gender budgeting research and impact in Northern Ireland!

This conference will bring together stakeholders from across the public, private and community sectors to reflect on what we have learnt from our research on gender budgeting over the past seven years and what it means for budgeting in Northern Ireland going forward.

The JRCT Gender Budgeting Project is funded by the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust (JRCT) and delivered in partnership between Ulster University researchers and civil society representatives from the Northern Ireland Women's Budget Group. To find out more, please visit: https://www.ark.ac.uk/ARK/projects/Gender_Budgeting/

Reserve your place here


  1. DE Consultation Events on the Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy

The Department is seeking views on the draft Executive ELC Strategy.

The draft ELC Strategy is the Executive’s draft plan for more affordable, accessible, high-quality early learning and childcare.

The draft strategy builds on work already undertaken to enhance early learning and childcare provision in Northern Ireland and seeks to consolidate and expand on these achievements. The strategy is structured around three core themes which together seek to provide a holistic approach to improving early learning and childcare provision across Northern Ireland:

  • Supporting Children in Their Early Years

  • Supporting Families with their Children’s ELC Costs

  • Supporting the Early Years Sector and Workforce

Consultation Events

The Foyle Arena, Derry/Londonderry, Tuesday 10th March at 7pm Register here: Derry/Londonderry Event(external link opens in a new window / tab)

Consultation and further information available here


  1. LGBT+ History Month Event

You are cordially invited to join us for a celebration event marking LGBT+ History Month 2026

Discrimination and Persecution, World War II and Beyond Thursday 19th February 2026, 4.00 – 6.00pm The Whittaker Suite, Guildhall, Derry~Londonderry

There will be presentations by Martin McConnellogue and Stephen Birkett and refreshments will be provided.


  1. Inclusive Employment Academy 

After our successful launch, we’re delighted to announce the start of the Inclusive Employment Academy — a new, supportive training programme designed to help residents across Derry & Strabane with mental or physical disabilities build skills, confidence, and clear pathways into employment. Our first sessions are about to begin, and we’d love for you to join us! 

Upcoming Training Schedule:

  • Day One: World Host Ambassador Training, 16th February |  9:30am – 4:00pm

  • OCNNI Level 1 in Employability Skills, 23rd – 25th February |  9:30am – 4:00pm

Location: Verbal Arts Centre, Bishop’s Street, L/Derry Lunch will be provided each day

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain recognised qualifications, explore exciting career paths in I.T., Finance, and the Creative Industries, and connect with local employers who believe in inclusion and potential. Places are limited — don’t miss out!

We look forward to welcoming you on this journey towards new opportunities and success.


  1. Upcoming Training with The Clear Project

Mental Health First Aid Dates:   17th & 24th February 2026 Times:   9:30am - 1:30pm Venue: Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre, Limavady ** Both sessions must be attended in order to complete training *

Impact of Social Madia on Emotional Health Date:  2nd March 2026 Time:  9:30am - 12:30pm Venue: Onlinesafe

TALK Training The Koram Centre, Railway Street, Strabane, BT82 8BG - Thursday 12th March, 6pm to 9pm.

safeTALK is a training workshop, which raises general awareness on how to prevent suicide in our community.   Learn four basic steps to recognise persons with thoughts of suicide and help connect them with suicide intervention resources. Please Note: This workshop is not suitable for anyone recently bereaved by suicide within the last 12 months.

Most people with thoughts of suicide invite help.  Often these opportunities are missed, dismissed or avoided – leaving people more alone and at greater risk. 

safeTALK training prepares you to help by using TALK (Tell, Ask, Listen and Keepsafe) to identify and engage people with thoughts of suicide and to connect them with further help and care.


  1. Level 2 Award in Community Development- FULLY FUNDED PLACES

Course details OCN NI Level 2 Award in Community Development Start date- Friday 27th February Time- 9.30am - 12.45pm Location- Northwest Regional College- Strand Road Tower Building Duration- 16 weeks with 1 class per week every Friday   The eligibility criteria for any applicants are they must have turned 16yrs by July 2025. 

All applicants should scan the QR code to apply directly to secure their place! 

This is a PEACEPLUS Project, and all places are fully funded. A great opportunity for anyone interested in a career in the community sector and upskilling themselves in 2026! 

Any other questions please contact Denise at- inspire.enthuse.equip@nwrc.ac.uk


  1. ACET OCN Level 2 course

HIV STIs & Contraception - OCN Level 2 Course

Course Dates:  Monday 2nd, Tuesday 3rd, Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th March 2026 from 10.00-11.30am each day 

The course will be delivered online via 4 live Zoom sessions and will cover:

  • Sexually Transmitted Infections

  • Blood-borne viruses : HIV and Hepatitis B/C

  • Contraception

  • Prevention

  • Condom Use

  • Local Sexual Health Services

It will be suitable for anyone working or volunteering with either young people or adults in Northern Ireland who would like to improve their understanding of sexual health.  

If interested, register using the link above or contact Nigel@acet-ni.com


  1. Why Northern Irish Children’s Books Matter

Free invite - why Northern Irish Children’s Books Matter. 7pm Mon 23rd Feb. Central Library, Foyle Street, Derry.

This free event is targeted at adults who work with (or parent) children and teens in community, early years, youth, home or school settings. Join Laureate ña nÓg, Patricia Forde, for a lively discussion on why stories by artists from and based in Northern Ireland are vital to our children and young people. Please come along for a great evening and a chance to be better informed as to why reading for enjoyment matters and what resources are out there to help!


  1. Upcoming Inclusive events at The Millennium Forum

Energy of Light Disco Come along to the Energy of Light Disco, a monthly disco for adults who are experiencing limited physical, sensory and or learning ability.  DJ Oliver will have you dancing to various music including pop, country and the best dance hits.  So come along and enjoy the music, dance and have fun! Tickets are £3 with Carers and Parents for free! 

DATE: Friday 27 February, Studio Theatre TIME:  7.30pm - 9pm AGE:   Over 15’s

Moves & Melodies Moves and Melodies is an age friendly project in the Millennium Forum that includes song and dance workshops. 

DATE: Thursday 19 February TIME:  2pm - 3.30pm

Dementia Friendly Tea Dances Our next Dementia Friendly Tea Dance is taking place on Thursday 26 February in our Studio Theatre from 2pm - 3.30pm.  Music is provided by Dougie Breslin.  Refreshments provided.  This is a free event, however booking is essential.

Sensory Musical Theatre Group We want to create a safe and welcoming environment where everyone can feel comfortable and supported to express themselves through performance! Our classes will focus on drama-based activities, improvisation, role-playing and singing. We aim to build confidence, creativity and self-esteem! Our classes are open to post-primary age and will run on a Saturday from 1:30pm-2:30pm.  Our next class is on Saturday 14 February. The project will be facilitated by Caitlyn McCrea.


  1. Latest Offers from Salto Youth

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

  • Webinar: Financial Literacy & Entrepreneurial Skills (English)

  • Hand In Hand - Turning Collaboration into Common Ground

  • Proud Ambassadors: Webinars for LGTBQIA+ Youth's Mental Well-being

  • Fundamentals of Digital Project Management

  • “Beyond Polarisations: Youth Renewing Democracy” Seminar


  1. Sighted Volunteers

RNIB Connect NW Group are seeking individuals to volunteer for roles as sighted guides.

This would be great asset to our North West connect group as we have a few events coming up in the near future.

For more information contact Brian by email: Brian.Murray@rnib.org.uk


  1. Job Opportunity with FWIN: WRP Training Officer 

Do you have a passion for women’s leadership, peacebuilding, and reconciliation? We’re recruiting a Training Officer to join the Women’s ReconciliaNation Project (WRP), a cross-border initiative supporting women across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. 

The Women’s ReconciliaNation Project (WRP), supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). This cross-border initiative is delivered in partnership with Training for Women’s Network (Lead Partner), Louth Youth Federation, and Ulster University. 

This is a rewarding, hands-on role delivering inclusive, trauma-informed training that supports women to build confidence, connect across communities, and engage meaningfully in peace and civic life. 

Based in Derry / Londonderry (cross-border role) Full-time (37.5 hours) Salary: £29,347.08, per annum Apply by 27th February 2026 

Download the application pack for full details and how to apply: https://www.fwin.org.uk/work-with-us


  1. You are warmly invited to our Burns Supper at Monreagh Hall

Friday, 27 February, 7:30pm, Monreagh Hall

Enjoy an evening of traditional food, music, poetry, and celebration of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. 

Admission: €20 To reserve your place, please email office@monreagh.net or call 074 9140708.

We look forward to welcoming you for a memorable night of culture!


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 

When submitting an article for inclusion in this E-Bulletin, please conform to the following guidelines:

  • As far as possible, do not use images - information is best received when it is concise and straightforward.

  • Include reliable contact information: named contact, organisation, telephone number, email address &, where appropriate, web address.

  • Please check that all details are correct when submitting as we will presume they are.

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.

bottom of page