News
Led by Ark Housing’s Communities team, our contribution to Good Relations Week 2025 was both dynamic and impactful. Through a series of inclusive events, we showcased our commitment to building a united and respectful society.
Highlights included:
Social Housing Leaflet Launch – To kick off the week and this year’s theme “Connect,” our Communities team joined local South Belfast community groups, Ark, Woven, and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to unveil a user-friendly leaflet designed to help people navigate and manage social housing applications. With opening remarks by Councillor Tracy Kelly, Lord Mayor of Belfast, the event underscored the power of collaboration and shared knowledge.
Communities Leading Change – An engagement event delivered in partnership with Arbour, Radius, and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, focusing on empowering local voices.
Good Relations Conference – Hosted in collaboration with Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council, this event brought stakeholders together to share ideas and strengthen partnerships.
Cultural Connections – A meaningful meeting with the Strabane Ethnic Community Association to explore shared values and celebrate diversity.
Celebrating Traditions – The Conor Rise Residents Association enjoyed a vibrant fusion of traditional Chinese dancing and Irish music, highlighting the beauty of cultural exchange.
Football for All – In a landmark collaboration with the Irish Football Association (IFA), housing associations launched a new initiative promoting inclusion, equality, and community spirit through sport. Backed by the Housing For All Shared Housing Programme, this project encourages people of all abilities to get involved, make connections, and build stronger communities.
These events were supported by the Department for Communities ‘Housing For All’ programme and reflect our commitment to the NI Executive’s Together Building a United Community Strategy.
Whether through music, dialogue, or sport, Good Relations Week 2025 was a celebration of unity, and we’re proud to have played a part in the celebrations.