News
Good Relations Week is organised by the Community Relations Council and has run for more than 20 years. It is one of Northern Ireland’s largest celebrations of peacebuilding, cultural diversity and community connection. The week highlights work that goes on all year to strengthen relationships and challenge division, racism and sectarianism.
Ark’s programme follows that same ethos. Events range from primary school workshops and a children’s céilí to a community conference in Armagh, partnership activity in Newtownards, and face-to-face money advice at Quarry Heights.
Cultural diversity, respect and inclusion workshops
Workshops will be delivered in 12 primary schools. Through interactive activities, pupils explore and celebrate cultural differences in a positive way, learning about different cultures, traditions and perspectives while building respect, empathy and understanding.
Good Relations Newtownards
A week of events in Newtownards will be delivered with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Ards and North Down Borough Council and a range of partners. The programme is designed to show the strength of partnership working across Ards and North Down.
Community information event at Quarry Heights
On Wednesday 14 October, from 11am to 3.30pm, staff from Barclays will be at Quarry Heights, Newtownards, with their information and banking van. The visit is open to tenants and the wider community. There is no need to book, and you do not have to be a Barclays customer.
The van offers face-to-face, non-cash support in a public setting, including help with money management, savings, digital banking apps, and fraud and scam advice, plus tips on making money work harder and protecting yourself against fraud. Refreshments will be available.
Armagh Good Relations Conference and Networking
Groups working in the Armagh area will come together to identify local needs, network, and speak with funders active in the area.
These events are supported through partnership with the Northern Ireland Executive, Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC), Housing for All and the Housing Executive.
Children’s Céilí at The Commons
Ark’s Homeless Services team will host a children’s céilí at The Commons, bringing together young people living in Ark’s family centres and children from the surrounding community. The céilí will be on Friday 15th at 5pm. This is a free event but tickets can be purchased via eventbrite here.
If you would like any information about these events, please contact communities@arkhousing.co.uk.