Less Than A Week To Go Until Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair Returns To Belfast

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With less than a week to go until the Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair takes place in Belfast, Charity Jobs NI is encouraging jobseekers, career changers and prospective volunteers to come along and explore the wide range of over 500 paid and volunteer opportunities that will be on offer across Northern Ireland’s third sector.

Organised by Charity Jobs NI, the Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair will take place on Tuesday 24 March 2026 from 10am to 2pm at the Assembly Buildings Conference Centre, Belfast. Free to attend, the event brings together charities, community organisations and social enterprises with people interested in meaningful careers, volunteering opportunities and purpose-led work.

Now in its third year since launching in 2024, the fair has become a key date in the third sector calendar, giving attendees the chance to explore opportunities in one place and speak directly with organisations about roles, career pathways and volunteering options. At the most recent fair, more than 270 employment opportunities and 335 volunteer roles were showcased, generating over 465 applications on the day and leading to hires and volunteer placements across Northern Ireland.

Among the organisations recently confirmed to take part are Inspire Wellbeing, MACS, Triangle Housing Association, Cedar Foundation, Crossroads Care NI, NIACRO, Cruse Bereavement Support, Autism Initiatives, Epilepsy Action, Community Rescue Service, OCN NI and Railway Preservation Society of Ireland and Whitehead Railway Museum.

Together with the organisations already announced, the line-up reflects the breadth of the sector, with exhibitors working across children and families, disability support, housing, mental health, community inclusion, youth services, rehabilitation, bereavement support, environmental action and heritage.

Richard Cherry, Co-founder of Charity Jobs NI, said: “There are a lot of people who want work that feels meaningful, or who are curious about what a career in the third sector could look like, but are not always sure where to begin. This fair is designed to make that easier by bringing a wide range of organisations together in one place and giving people the chance to have real conversations about the opportunities available.

“If you are job-hunting, thinking about a career change or interested in volunteering, we would encourage you to come along, explore what is on offer and see where it might lead.”

Among the organisations taking part this year is Action for Children Northern Ireland, which supports children and young people by providing practical and emotional care, ensuring their voices are heard and campaigning for lasting improvements to their lives. In Northern Ireland, its work includes family support, early intervention services, fostering and youth homelessness.

 

To anyone considering attending the fair, Lorna Ballard, National Director at Action for Children Northern Ireland, said: “Please come and chat to us and see what a wide range of roles we have that will make a difference to local children, young people and families.”

Also set to attend the event is Positive Futures.The organisation supports children and adults with a learning disability, acquired brain injury and autism through person-centred services and will be among those speaking to attendees on the day about opportunities in the sector.

Anne Magee, Operations Manager at Positive Futures, said: “Roles in the charity sector are hugely rewarding and the people who do them are proud of the difference they make but the roles can be the beginning of a great career path to senior jobs in the sector and related sectors, so if you are interested in developing your career further it provides great opportunities.

The fair is aimed at anyone interested in finding out more about careers and volunteering in the third sector, whether they are actively looking for a new role, considering a move into the sector, returning to work or simply exploring what opportunities may suit their skills and interests.

People are encouraged to book a free ticket in advance, although attendees will also be welcome to drop in on the day.

To book a free ticket or find out more about exhibiting, visit charityjobsni.com/charity-careers-fair.

 

The Fray Autumn Light Tour

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The Fray

Autumn Light Tour

National Stadium, Dublin – 12 November

Ulster Hall, Belfast – 13 November

Tickets on sale Friday 20th March

 

Following a triumphant, sold-out Telegraph Building show after a decade-long hiatus, The Fray have announced their return to play The National Stadium, Dublin on 12 November and Ulster Hall, Belfast on 13 November 2026.

Tickets on sale Friday 20th March at 10am from Ticketmaster.ie & www.ulsterhall.co.uk

The Fray had previously visited last November for the final dates of their How to Save a Life: 20th Anniversary Tour, which celebrated two decades of their iconic debut album. The multi-Platinum-selling band – composed of lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter Joe King, guitarist Dave Welsh, and drummer Ben Wysocki – continues to captivate audiences with the emotional depth and cinematic sweep of their music.

Originally rising to prominence in the early 2000s, the Colorado-bred group introduced a uniquely soul-searching alt-rock sound—timeless yet inventive, arena-sized yet profoundly intimate. Over the years, The Fray has earned four GRAMMY Award nominations, three Billboard Music Awards, multiple Billboard Top 10 hits, and a deeply devoted global fanbase. Their breakout single, “How To Save A Life,” spent 58 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining anthem of ABC’s Emmy-winning series “Grey’s Anatomy.”

Praised by Rolling Stone for their “stick-in-your-head hooks and eloquent narratives” and by the Los Angeles Times for their “melodically rich” songwriting, The Fray’s 2005 debut album How to Save a Life is certified 4x Platinum by the RIAA and remains one of the best-selling digital debuts of all time. The band is currently working on new music, with additional releases planned in the coming months, following the recent launch of their latest single, “A Light That Waits.”

Connect with The Fray

Instagram / X / Website / Spotify

Local Support Highlighted for Debt Awareness Week in Causeway Coast and Glens

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Debt can affect anyone. Yet the shame people feel around it often prevents them from getting the support they need.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has partnered with Community Advice Causeway (CAC) during Debt Awareness Week (16–22 March 2026) to highlight the free, confidential support available through CAC’s Money and Debt Service. Funded by the Department for Communities and delivered in partnership with Advice NI, the Specialist Debt Team offers expert guidance to help people address and manage debt concerns.
Northern Ireland continues to face high levels of financial vulnerability, with many households affected by low wages, insecure work, rising energy and food costs, and limited access to savings. As a result, more people are turning to credit to make ends meet, often leading to unmanageable debt.
Encouraging anyone struggling financially to seek help, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan, said:
“Many families and individuals across our Council area are feeling the pressure of rising costs, and financial worries can affect anyone at any stage of life.
“I would strongly encourage anyone concerned about debt or falling behind on bills to reach out to Community Advice Causeway. Their team offers free, confidential advice and guidance, helping people understand their options and take positive steps towards regaining control of their finances with confidence and reassurance.”
Samantha Boswell, Chief Officer of Community Advice Causeway, said:
“Debt can affect anyone, and too often people struggle in silence because they feel embarrassed or overwhelmed. Our message is simple: you are not alone, and help is available. Seeking advice at an early stage is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress, protect your wellbeing, and achieve a positive outcome.
“Clients can self-refer easily by calling or visiting our website. Once a referral is made, our qualified specialist debt adviser will take time to understand their situation and work with them to find the best possible solution.
Advisers can help clients explore a range of options, including budgeting support, negotiating with creditors, arranging affordable repayment plans, or, where appropriate, assisting with formal debt solutions such as a Debt Relief Order (DRO) or Bankruptcy.”
To self-refer or find out more about the Money and Debt Advice Service, contact Community Advice Causeway by phone on 028 703 44817 or visit their website at https://advicecauseway.com.
Information about other UK Debt Charities and online help can be found at
www.moneyhelper.org.uk

10 Things to do in NI This Week!

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Here are ten exciting things to do 16 – 22 March

 

  1. St Patrick’s Day at Slemish, Broughshane, County Antrim, 17 March. Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in spectacular style with a memorable trek up Slemish – the legendary mountain where Ireland’s patron saint once tended sheep. This iconic annual tradition invites you to conquer the 1.5 kilometre round walk to the summit and take in the breathtaking panoramic views.
  2. St Patrick’s Day Spring Carnival 2026, Derry~Londonderry, 17 March. Savour mouth-watering food from local vendors, explore the charm of traditional Irish music and be part of the magic as the St Patrick’s Day parade winds through the streets, showcasing dazzling displays of colour, creativity, and culture. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Spring in Derry~Londonderry.
  3. St Patrick’s Day Parade, Belfast, 17 March. A dazzling display of costume, music, dance and circus will bring the streets of Belfast alive this St Patrick’s Day. The annual parade will weave its way through the city centre. With colourful live performance and a high energy soundtrack, this year’s parade will include some new elements to celebrate the legends of St Patrick.
  4. St Patrick’s Day at Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 17 March. Join them for a family day filled with music, storytelling and hands-on activities that bring Ireland’s past to life. There’ll be traditional music performances and Irish dancing displays, plus folklore tales of legends and lore. Try Irish language taster sessions, sample colcannon and get hands-on with their family craft station.
  5. St Patrick’s Day Parade in Newry City, and St Patrick’s Day Parade in Downpatrick, County Down, 17 March. St Patrick’s Day parades will be the centre of celebrations in Newry City and Downpatrick. Led by Saint Patrick himself, the St Patrick’s Day parade will offer a feast for eyes and ears as swirling dancers, community floats and costumed characters entertain the crowds.
  6. St Patrick’s Day Omagh: Music and Mythology, Omagh, County Tyrone, 17 March. The streets of Omagh will come alive at this year’s St Patrick’s weekend with a vibrant celebration of music, mythology, dance and carnival parade. Delivered by Urban Events NI under the theme Music & Mythology, this year’s programme brings together an exciting blend of traditional musicians, dancers, performers and local groups to create an unforgettable festival experience.
  7. St Patrick’s Day at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 17 March. Enjoy a day of Irish heritage and celebration as you explore the history of the shamrock, accompanied by the sounds of traditional Irish music across Ulster and America. Watch Irish dance performances and see traditional craft demonstrations like basket weaving throughout the day. Stop by the Mellon House where the table will be filled with customary foods like colcannon and apple tart, taste samples of fruit brack and follow the ‘Shamrock Selfie Trail.’
  8. St Patrick’s Day Parade in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 17 Match. From Castle to Castle, the traditional parade will snake through the heart of Enniskillen, crossing its iconic bridges and celebrating the unique geography of the island town. The celebrations continue with an extended free fun day at Enniskillen Castle and the Broadmeadow, featuring family entertainment, activities and special guest appearances throughout the early afternoon.
  9. Sunrise at Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, County Armagh, 17 March. What made Emain Macha so special to the ancient people of Ulster? Why was this site so steeped in history and wonder that it drew St Patrick to the area to build his first church? Celebrate St Patrick’s morning with St Patrick himself and the ancient people of Ulster. This year bear witness, through drama, to the story of a bull which attempted to stop the building of Patrick’s church and participate in a ceremony by the sacred pool. Afterwards, have breakfast with them, to the sound of live music.
  10. Sperrins Festival, Gortin, County Tyrone, 20 –22 March. Sperrins Festival is a three-day celebration of landscape, heritage, and community, taking place across Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It aims to strengthen connections between people and place, support sustainable tourism, and provide new opportunities to learn, explore, and celebrate the area’s rich and diverse heritage and culture.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit: discovernorthernireland.com.

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

More organisations join line-Up as Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair nears

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Jobseekers and volunteers across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to attend the Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair in Belfast later this month, as more organisations confirm they will be taking part.

The Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair, organised by Charity Jobs NI, will take place on Tuesday 24 March 2026 from 10am to 2pm at the Assembly Buildings Conference Centre, Belfast. Free to attend, the event brings together charities, community organisations and social enterprises with people interested in meaningful careers and volunteer opportunities across Northern Ireland’s third sector.

Among the organisations now confirmed to take part are Presbyterian Church in Ireland, HarmonI, Start360, The Conservation Volunteers, Caring Breaks and Living Water Adopt-A-Child UK & Ireland, with the growing exhibitor line-up giving attendees the chance to explore a broad range of organisations and opportunities under one roof.

Now in its third year since launching in 2024, the Fair has become a key date in the third sector calendar, giving attendees the chance to meet organisations face to face, learn more about the work they do and explore both paid and volunteer roles in a supportive setting. At the most recent Fair, more than 270 employment opportunities and 335 volunteer roles were showcased, generating over 465 applications on the day and leading to real hires and volunteer placements across Northern Ireland.

Chris Bunce, Co-founder of Charity Jobs NI, said: “With the event now just around the corner, what really stands out is the range of organisations that will be in the room on the day. For anyone thinking about a career in the third sector, or looking for a way to get involved through volunteering, that means more opportunities to ask questions, make connections and get a feel for where their skills and interests might fit.

“It is not just about turning up and picking up information. It is about having real conversations with organisations, hearing about the work they do and discovering opportunities they may not have considered before. That is what makes the Fair so valuable, and why we would encourage anyone with an interest in the sector to come along.”

Among those joining the event this year is first-time exhibitor Living Water Adopt-A-Child UK & Ireland, which supports children, vulnerable adults and families in Guatemala and Albania.

Esther Teggart, Area Coordinator at Living Water Adopt-A-Child UK/Ireland, said: “The Fair is an opportunity to raise awareness of the work happening in Guatemala and Albania for those in need, and to show how we can help even from a distance with a new group of people. 

“We hope it will encourage some to get involved in supporting us in whatever way feels right and doable for them, while also helping us make new connections with attendees and other charities that could lead to partnership and collaboration through shared resources, knowledge and other connections. We have not been to the Fair before, so we are looking forward to being part of the day.”

Also looking forward to be taking part on the day is returning exhibitor HarmonI, which provides compassionate support and care for people living with disability and those experiencing societal disadvantage. For the organisation, the Fair offers an opportunity to connect with values-driven people who are looking to use employment or volunteering to make a difference.

Sam Humphries, Chief Executive of HarmonI, said: “If you’re driven by your values and want to find a career in a sector which does so much more than provide employment, this is the place to start.”

There is still time for charities, community organisations and social enterprises interested in taking part to sign up as exhibitors. 

The event is open exclusively to organisations within the third sector and offers a valuable platform to meet motivated candidates, promote live opportunities and raise awareness of the work they do.

To book a free ticket or find out more about exhibiting, visit charityjobsni.com/charity-careers-fair.

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this Mother’s Day weekend

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Antrim

This Mother’s Day, treat her to a 3 course Sunday feast at The Rabbit, served from 12pm – 5.30pm. Every mum will be welcomed with a special gift, because she deserves nothing less.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Storytelling, Fiddles and Stew at the Charlemont Arms Hotel is a charming event that combines the spoken word, good music and tasty food, all things Ireland is synonymous with. The Seancaithe (the Aged) and Scéalaí (the Narrator) were the bearers of Irish traditional stories. Important characters in Ireland’s cultural past, they passed the old stories down through the generations.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

Michael Harrison in association with Cameron Mackintosh presents… A new production of Miss Saigon at the Grand Opera House, as Boublil and Schönberg’s legendary musical is reborn. The soaring score features hit songs including; The Heat is On in Saigon, The Movie in My Mind, Last Night of the World and The American Dream.

Find out more HERE

Down

Terry McHugh returns to Portico Ards with hilarious stories of childhood, parenthood & his expensive Lego obsession. Don’t miss this new Tour!

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a memorable lunch in the elegant surroundings of Corick House Hotel & Spa, where timeless charm meets warm hospitality.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Join Heaney Home Place for Room to Rhyme! This is our weekly half hour session for parents and children aged 0-4. Little ones will get the opportunity to interact with others, develop listening and language skills, and have fun!

Find out more HERE

Tyrone

Create a unique photo holder that can be gifted this Mother’s Day at Ranfurly House Dungannon. In this fun and creative one-hour workshop, ‘Claytastic Kids’ will guide participants through the art of 3D modelling, rolling, stretching, and colour mixing.  This workshop suitable for ages 6+.  All materials supplied.  Children will take home their own beautiful creation at the end of the workshop.

Find out more HERE

 

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

 

Come and wish the Bishop’s Gate Hotel a happy 10th birthday with their special offer, starting from £179 per night. Enjoy bed and breakfast, a two-course dinner and raise a toast to this special occasion with a glass of prosecco on arrival to the Walled City. Offer is available for selected dates in March and April and must be booked by midnight, Tuesday 10th March. Visit www.bishopsgatehotelderry.com for more information. Please note, prices are from £179 midweek, Fridays from £199 and Saturday 7th March From £249.

 

 

Shipquay Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

 

Spring into the city with Shipquay’s seasonal offer available now until 30th April. From only £179 per couple, enjoy an overnight stay in the heart of the city with a two-course evening meal in Shipquay restaurant, £20 hotel credit to personalise your stay, and a freshly cooked to order breakfast in the morning. Visit www.shipquayhotel.com for more information.

 

 

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers. 

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 9 – 15 March

 

  1. St Patrick’s Weekend at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, 15 March. Visit Hillsborough Castle and Gardens for a fun-filled family day out with stories, music and celebration in honour of St. Patrick’s Day. Immerse yourself in the magic of traditional Irish storytelling with renowned storyteller Eamonn Keenan, accompanied by the captivating music of Aodan MacSeafriadh.
  2. Homes In Focus: Tea Lane at Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 14 March. Join Victoria Millar, Senior Curator of History, for a talk on the Tea Lane Houses. Discover what life was like for those who lived here and explore the research happening behind the scenes. Originally located off Sandy Row in Belfast, the houses were built for workers in the nearby textile mills and brickfields in Sandy Row. They are believed to be amongst the earliest surviving examples of industrial housing in Belfast.
  3. Leprechaun Treasure Trail at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, 14 – 17 March. Can you track down Montalto’s mischievous Leprechauns? Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a fun-filled treasure trail style adventure through the beautiful Trails & Gardens at Montalto Estate.
  4. St Patrick’s Day at Antrim Castle Gardens, Antrim, County Antrim, 14 March. Bring the whole family along for a day of fun in the stunning gardens. Enjoy live music, Irish and Ulster-Scots dancing and plenty of family-friendly activities as the gardens come alive with the spirit of St Patrick’s Day.
  5. Belfast St Patrick’s Music Festival, Belfast, 13 – 17 March. Belfast St Patrick’s Music Festival returns with five days of concerts, workshops, dance, pipe bands and a free Festival Village in the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast, UNESCO City of Music. At the heart of the festival is a diverse, cross-cultural celebration of traditional arts in honour of St Patrick.
  6. Wild Caving at Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 14 March. Delve off the beaten track with our experienced and qualified Cave Leader to explore “wild caving” in the depths of the Marble Arch Caves system. Your group of ten will explore wild cave passages, negotiate boulder chambers and clamber through the well-known flyover to emerge into the public tour area of the show cave before navigating your way out through the wild chambers.
  7. Walled City Music Festival 2026, Derry~Londonderry, 12 – 15 March. Derry~Londonderry is set for a serious musical takeover this March as the Walled City Music Festival returns with a razor-sharp programme built for everyone – the seasoned concertgoer, the curious first timer, and anyone who simply wants to feel something live. Expect powerhouse piano, high-voltage violin and richly coloured chamber music, performed by world-class artists in the heart of the city.
  8. Ashes to Fashion at Ulster Museum, Belfast, until 13 September. A collection reborn through significant acquisitions, a future-proof collecting policy and generous donations, making it one of the most important collections in Western Europe. ‘Ashes to Fashion’ marks this extraordinary milestone with a stunning showcase of fashion from the eighteenth century to today, from historic garments to contemporary pieces by Chanel and Versace.
  9. Home of St Patrick Festival 2026, Armagh, County Armagh, 8 – 18 March. The Home of St Patrick Festival celebrates St. Patrick’s life through music, art, theatre, film, and dance. This is a chance to reflect on the legacy of St Patrick and have fun celebrating his influence on history and culture.
  10. Visit Gortin Glen Forest Park, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates and times. Gortin Glen Forest Park is made up of a network of 5 waymarked trails of varying lengths that start from the Trailhead close to the main car park. All trails are colour coded and return back to the car park. Each of the trails give the visitor the opportunity to enjoy the woodland, nestled nicely in the Sperrin Mountains.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit: discovernorthernireland.com.

 

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

TITANIC BELFAST TO DISPLAY LIFEJACKET OF SURVIVOR AS PART OF NEW EXHIBITION

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TITANIC Belfast has welcomed an original lifejacket worn by a female survivor which will be on public display for a limited time.

The rare artefact is on loan from Wiltshire auction house Henry Aldridge and Sons, the world’s leading Titanic memorabilia auctioneers, until Sunday 5th April, before going to auction on 18th April. It was worn by Laura Mabel Francatelli, who survived the tragic sinking of RMS Titanic alongside 11 other passengers in Lifeboat 1. A First-Class passenger, Laura Mabel was the secretary to fashion designer, Lady Lucy Duff Gordon. They were journeying to Chicago for business, accompanied by Lady Lucy’s husband, Sir Cosmo Duff Gordon.

The lifejacket bears the signature of Francatelli along with other survivors including leading fireman Charles Hendrickson, fireman George Taylor and able seaman James Horswill and is one of very few remaining original lifejackets that are identifiable to the person who wore it.

The artefact will form part of a wider free exhibition ‘Women of Titanic: Survival, Influence & Legacy’, located on Level 1 Apex of the world-leading visitor attraction and will explore the stories of the women who travelled onboard Titanic including Helen Churchill Candee, Marjorie Anne Newell and Annie Clemmer Funk.

Eimear Kearney, Commercial Director of Titanic Belfast said: “We are honoured to display the lifejacket worn by Laura Mabel Francatelli, a survivor of RMS Titanic and celebrate the women who travelled onboard through our ‘Women of Titanic: Survival, Influence & Legacy’ exhibition. It offers a deeply personal connection to the story of Titanic and to one of its passengers, whose life was spared in the tragedy but irrevocably changed and shaped forever.

Displaying an artefact worn and signed by Laura Mabel allows us to tell a powerful story of survival, memory and legacy. We are thrilled to be able to give guests from around the world this added experience to view yet another rare piece of Titanic history.”

Andrew Aldridge, Managing Director of Henry Aldridge and Sons, said: “We are delighted to be able to place such a significant artefact on public display at Titanic Belfast ahead of its forthcoming auction. Exhibiting Laura Mabel Francatelli’s lifejacket in the city where Titanic was built offers visitors a unique opportunity to view this object of historical importance and find out more about the human story behind it.”

For further information on the ‘Women of Titanic: Survival, Influence & Legacy’ exhibition or to book tickets for the Titanic Experience, visit titanicbelfast.com

Antrim and Newtownabbey welcomes Walking for All Launch to Inspire Health, Inclusion and Community

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Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has welcomed the announcement of a brand new ‘Walking for All’ programme. A major cross-border initiative supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), and led by Outscape, launched on Friday 27 February 2026 at The Junction, Dungannon.

Supported by €7.5 million from the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), ‘Walking for All’ will aim to engage over 14,000 people across rural areas in Northern Ireland and the border counties to engage in accessible, led walking activities.

Designed to improve health and well-being in rural communities by making walking more accessible, enjoyable, and social for everyone to explore and participate in, Walking for All, will deliver short, regular walks in local community spaces.

The programme is open to adults, regardless of age, background, or ability. By fostering a focus on connection, inclusion, and well-being, Walking for All will seek to build sustainable, healthy communities and address issues such as social isolation, wellbeing and inactivity.

The programme is being delivered by Outscape in partnership with 15 partner organisations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, including 8 local authorities, the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust and 6 Local Sports Partnerships. Sport Ireland, Mountaineering Ireland (Get Ireland Walking), and the Public Health Agency are associate partners. Locally this project is being led by Bridie Kelly, the newly appointed Walking for All Officer for Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, who will support the development of these walking groups across the council area, working closely with local communities.

16 dedicated Walking for All Officers have already been recruited and will lead the programme as well as train Walk Leaders, supporting the creation of nearly 600 walking groups and engaging thousands in regular, social walks over the next three years.

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir MLA said: ‘I’m delighted that my Department, working in partnership with DRCDG and SEUPB, is providing funding under the PEACEPLUS programme to the Walking for All (WFA) project. WFA is not just about walking – it is about inspiring people to come together through shared, volunteer led experiences, strengthening bonds within our rural communities while enjoying the beauty of our countryside at its very best.

This project will create a lasting legacy of healthier, happier and more connected rural communities, demonstrating the remarkable impact of community-led initiatives to inspire long-term positive change and helping rural areas to thrive as places where people can live, work and prosper.’

The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, and Minister of State with Responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD, welcomed the announcement.

Minister Calleary said: “I would like to express my gratitude to all those who contributed to the Walking for All initiative. I am pleased that my Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht will continue to support this outstanding project in collaboration with the Special EU Programmes Body and the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland. The area will reap long-term benefits from this project”.

Minister Buttimer added: “This significant funding will support social interaction, reduce isolation and encourage active lifestyles. The planned investment will enable communities to reach their full potential in terms of the economy, society, and environment.”

Welcoming the announcement, Gina McIntyre, CEO of the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), said: “Walking for All reflects the purpose of PEACEPLUS by creating opportunities for people to come together in ways that strengthen health, confidence and connection. Many rural communities may not have easy access to sports facilities, and this programme offers a simple and inclusive way to address those challenges. By providing trained support, accessible routes and a welcoming structure, it will help thousands of people build new routines and deepen their sense of belonging together. We are pleased to support an initiative that encourages shared enjoyment of the outdoors and contributes to long-term wellbeing across our region.”‑term wellbeing across our region.”

Gareth Moore, Head of Participation at Outscape added: “Walking for All will enable people of all ages and abilities across NI and the border counties to ‘step out’ in supported, inclusive and welcoming walking groups. Rooted in rural communities, this landmark participation programme seeks to increase levels of physical activity, while addressing social isolation and loneliness amongst some members of our community. 

The funding from PEACEPLUS will bring communities to the heart of their local landscapes, enabling them to explore, create friendships and support each other through walking and in shared appreciation of the outdoors.

Trained Walk Leaders will deliver local walks within their communities, supported by Officers engaged by local authorities and sports partnerships. This network of Walk Leaders will be responsible for delivering life-enhancing support to their communities in a fun and fulfilling role, leading a short, regular weekly walk near their home. Together with our partners, we’re excited to offer everyone the opportunity to walk together, make new friends and improve their health through Walking for All.”

Walking for All is a key priority for both governments across the island, supporting public health, community wellbeing, and preventative action.  Research shows that structured walking is one of the most cost-effective and inclusive ways to increase physical activity, improve mental wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and deepen people’s connection with nature, whilst strengthening community participation and cross-sector collaboration.

Dawson Stelfox, Chair of Outscape and the first Irishman to summit Mount Everest speaking on the programme potential added;  “Walking for All is a vital investment in community health and wellbeing across NI and the border counties of Ireland, rooted in the evidence that simple, locally led walking programmes can deliver lasting benefits which improve physical and mental wellbeing, reduce isolation and strengthen community ties.

Outscape is proud to be the lead delivery partner for Walking for All working in partnership with Councils, LSPs, health bodies and community organisations. The programme has the potential to reach people who might otherwise be left behind, as well as create sustainable, positive change in community wellbeing and social cohesion across the region.”

Welcoming the launch announcement, the Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Julie Gilmour said; “This initiative shows what can be achieved when partners work together with a shared purpose. Walking for All will bring lasting benefits to our rural communities, helping people feel more connected, supported and active as they enjoy the outdoors. We are delighted that Antrim and Newtownabbey will be at the heart of this important work. I would encourage people in our community to visit the Council’s website to find out more, antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/walking-for-all.”

Visit www.walkingforall.com for more information on becoming a Walk Leader or to find local walks.

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