March Training Series

Please register using the links below. This training is FREE to PPN members.
Training is provided by Irvine Training and will be online. The link for the training will be sent out closer to the date.

Digital Marketing for Community Groups
Tuesday 19th March 2024, at 7-9pm, Online via Zoom.

What to expect:
Explore emerging trends in immersive storytelling and its impact on creating memorable brand experiences, enabling non-profits to connect with their audience on a deeper level.
Gain insights into the latest advancements in AI and the role in digital marketing for non-profits and community groups in2024.
Learn about immersive storytelling and how to tailor digital strategies to effectively engage with diverse community groups and individuals.

Register HERE. 
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Website Design for Your Organisation
Tuesday 26th March 2024, at 7-9pm, Online via Zoom.

What to expect:
Learn the fundamentals of creating a website that effectively represents your organization's mission and values.
Understand the basics of search engine optimization (SEO) and content management systems (CMS).
Master the art of visual storytelling through images, fonts, and colors to create a captivating online presence that resonates with your organization's audience.

Register HERE.

Housing SPC Meeting

Housing SPC (Strategic Policy Committee - Galway County Council). PPN Elected Representatives to attend and feedback to PPN. Meeting Friday 01st March 2024 at 2pm. 

Galway County PPN membership as surpassed 13 hundred registered community groups! 
Long may it continue. The PPN staff are always happy to help where we can. 
(Bear with us though, because administering a network this large takes quite a lot of work).
Learn about what we do in our Information Booklet HERE. 

PPN co-funded a Permaculture Weekend with Celt.org and Alfred Decker

CELT are delighted to share that our FREE PERMACULTURE WORKSHOP with Alfred Decker, Internationally renowned Permaculture Educator and Designer, was booked out on the first day of announcement.
The training took place over the weekend of 9th, 10th, 11th February 2024 in the wonderful eco friendly Slieve Aughty Center, with food available from the on site organic cafe sourcing food from onsite organic gardens - which were also used for Permaculture teaching and discussion purposes.
The training created a stimulating and inspiring opportunity for community members, exploring together how Permaculture can be more recognised in supporting an environmentally friendly and sustainable way of living.. Following the One Planet Living guidelines, and permaculture design principles can help us transition to
a more sustainable way of life and an opportunity to explore the regenerative approach of Permaculture Design.
To learn about Alfred Decker’s work please visit - https://12pdesign.net/alfred-decker/ 
For information on the work of CELT visit their website - https://www.celtnet.org/

PPN Stakeholder Training

The online only self-paced training videos programme for PPN stakeholders has been developed with SJI. Registrations for the online only training is now open. Social Justice Ireland is providing this training on behalf of the Department. 

The online only training covers the following:
-             An Introduction to the PPNs (2 Modules)
-             Local Government Budgets
-             PPNs and Local Government
-             Effective Participation in Consultations
-             Effective Facilitation
-             Strategic Planning 
-             Measuring Outcomes and Impacts

This is online only and is intended for self-directed learning at the learner’s own pace. Social Justice Ireland will provide some support via the webform on each Module page. There are no scheduled classes as part of this training.

This training is available to the following PPN Stakeholders:
-             PPN Workers
-             PPN Secretariat Members
-             PPN Representatives
-             PPN Member Groups 
-             Local Authority Staff
-             Elected Councillors

To register, please complete the Registration Form at the following link:
Register for Training | Social Justice Ireland

When a group registers it becomes part of the Galway County PPN Structure.
Registration is easy and free of charge!
Registered groups receive regular updates, information on funding opportunities and also benefit from advertising their own community activities free of charge.

Register now: https://www.galwaycountyppn.ie/registration-form/

Link to previous PPN Supports & Training available on Department website HERE 

The National Broadband Plan (NBP)  aims to ensure that every home, school and business in Ireland – regardless of how remote or rural – has access to high speed broadband. 

This is being achieved through a combination of Commercial investment across the country ( the blue areas of the Broadband Map) 

a State Intervention in those areas where commercial operators acting alone are unlikely to invest ( the Amber Areas of the Broadband Map) NBI are the company appoint to deliver these services.  NBI has set up a website with information on their service delivery plans, they have a section where persons can be kept up to date with projected delivery dates of service in their area using their Eircode and email address. 

The National Broadband map  which is available on the Gov.ie Interactive Map site identifies locations and premises as being AMBER or BLUE, you can search this map using your Eircode, if you don’t know your Eircode you can use this Eircode Finder tool. 

The Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment (DCCAE) is actively monitoring the rollout of high-speed broadband in the BLUE areas so as to ensure the accuracy of the Map. If your house or business is in a BLUE area and you do not have access to high speed broadband, please follow the steps outlined below: 

Check if your premises is located in an amber or blue area by either:
Entering your Eircode or Entering your address in the search box or Zooming in on the map. 

If your premises is in a BLUE area: You can run a line speed check using www.speedtest.net or similar speed test web sites, If your speed checks are consistently below 30Mbps, you need to: 

Check with ALL operators in your area to see if you can get high speed broadband.  

If you cannot get a high speed broadband service, you need to contact the Department through the dedicated portal  https://secure.dccae.gov.ie/forms/NBP-Customer-Service.aspx  . Include your Eircode, a copy of your line speed check results and confirmation of the operators you have contacted. 

The Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment (DCCAE) will then correspond with you directly on the NBP and how it is envisaged a high speed Broadband service is envisage to be delivered to your Eircode. 

Wireless broadband 

A full list of licenced Wireless broadband suppliers for County Galway can be found on the ComReg website, by typing Galway into the search bar and pressing search. 

Mobile phone signal–  

Persons can check the expected mobile coverage in their area by reviewing the coverage maps on the ComReg website by typing your Eircode or address into the search bar and pressing search, this web site provides a map of the expected mobile coverage ( e.g. 3G,4G) in their area. 

Mobile signal as shown on the ComReg website can differ from what is available on the ground due to the topography of the surrounding land and when measured indoors. 

If poor mobile signal is main experienced indoors, you may wish to consider a  mobile repeater, this is an electronic device that can be used to improve indoor coverage of mobile phone services like calls, texts and data, more information mobile repeaters can be fund here. 

Contacting the Department of Communications 

The Department of Communications has put in place a system to allow members of the public to contact them directly for queries relating to broadband and its delivery. Due to nature and extent of the information required, and GDPR guidelines, this is now the recommended channel for raising queries of this nature and can be accessed via the link below. 

https://secure.dccae.gov.ie/forms/NBP-Customer-Service.aspx 

Any household waste electrical items, batteries or energy saving light bulbs accepted, large or small! From Fridges to Phones, Laptops to Electric Lawnmowers, Toys to Power Tools, and everything in-between, WEEE recycle anything with a plug or battery!  
For further information contact WEEE Ireland https://www.weeeireland.ie/contact/
or 012999320.
Electrical, battery and lighting waste can also be recycled throughout the year at civic amenity sites in Tuam, Clifden and Ballinasloe with full details at:
https://www.galway.ie/en/services/environment/wasteandlitter/civicamenitysites/

Volunteer Galway events - Read more below:
https://volunteergalway.ie/volunteer-galway-events/

We are excited to announce that registration is open for The Wheel's National Summit for Charities, Community Groups and Social Enterprises, taking place on 29 May 2024 at Croke Park, Dublin.  

The full programme and speakers will be announced soon. Register now to secure your place and avail of the special 2-for-1 offer.

The Alliance for Insurance Reform is undertaking sectoral surveys (charity, business, tourism, sport, hospitality etc.) to ascertain its member’s current situation. This will enable the Alliance to speak with greater authority on the issue of rising costs and unavailability of insurance for many organisations.

We would love to ask members to complete the survey below. It has only 6 questions and will take less than a minute to complete.

Take the survey here

We are thrilled to be announcing our official partnership and sponsorship of Cairn Community Games. 
As you may be aware Community Games aims to provide opportunities for children and young people aged 6 to 16 years to develop active healthy lives and minds in a safe environment through experiencing a wide range of sporting and cultural activities.

Just as Community Games brings young people together from all types of backgrounds, Cairn has always been committed to creating sustainable, thriving communities in new developments we are delivering throughout Ireland. Every year up to 160,000 young people participate in the games with the 10,000 volunteers who make this possible in over 430 locations in every county in the Republic of Ireland.

We are proud to be investing €3 million into Community Games over a four-year period. Our investment will reinforce the continued strength and longevity, positively impacting communities across Ireland.

Integral to the Cairn investment is a joint commitment with Community Games to increase participation by 10% to 176,000 young people by 2028, enhancing diversity and inclusion, and raising awareness within new audience groups.

We look forward to young people in your area participating in the games and hope we can count on your support for Cairn Community Games as we seek to enhance the number of those participating in this wonderful competition.

Contact information: michael.stanley@cairnhomes.com 

Community Gardens Ireland are a voluntary, independent, inclusive group that works with all agencies and groups that promote environmental awareness and support community gardening and food growing in all parts of the island of Ireland. 

Next month, Community Gardens Ireland & Social Farms & Gardens Northern Ireland are together organising our 3rd annual online gathering and forum! The event starts at 11am on Saturday 2nd March. 

This free event takes place online and will include speakers from allotments, community gardens & groups across Ireland. 

This is always an incredibly popular event and is the largest online event for anyone interested in allotments, community gardens and community growing across the island of Ireland.

The 2024 theme is Food Education and the link to find out more information is here: 

https://cgireland.org/3rd-annual-online-gathering-of-community-growers-2nd-march/
The event is Online via Zoom.

New Members Welcome!

Spring is in the air and the daffodils are peeping up! The Glenamaddy Community Garden members are planning for the year ahead with exciting developments in the New Sensory Garden and woodland area.

We need new members - If you have any interest in gardening and want to meet like minded people, we will have a Registration day on Saturday 2nd March 2024 at 10.30am.

We meet each Saturday morning from 10.30 to 1pm, we would love you to come and join our enthusiastic group at Ballyhard Glenamaddy F45FK57. 

Contact details: Bernie Connelly - connelly.bernie@gmail.com

Galway County Council  Anti-Dog Fouling Campaign

Green Dog Walkers Scheme

Pro-actively changing attitudes about dog fouling in Co. Galway

Educating and influencing the behaviour of dog owners regarding dog fouling will be to the fore as Galway County Council launch the “Green Dog Walkers Scheme” as an addition to its on-going Anti-Dog Fouling Campaign. The campaign continues to emphasise that dog fouling is the responsibility of the dog owner/walker and that they must clean up after their dog.

Dog owners and dog walkers in Co. Galway are invited to register as “Green Dog Walkers” in this scheme.

The Green Dog Walkers scheme is a positive, pro-active, non -confrontational, friendly way to change attitudes about dog fouling in Co. Galway. The programme has been rolled out in many parts of Ireland and has proven very successful. The scheme consists of dog owners and dog walkers committing to clean up after their dog, and to being a friendly reminder to other dog walkers to clean up after their dog, while at no time being aggressive or confrontational about the issue. An information leaflet about the scheme and a pledge form are available.

 What does it mean when you sign up?

When you sign up to the scheme you will be sent a complimentary Green Dog Walkers high-viz vest and a ‘doggie bone’ poop-bag dispenser with a roll of bags.

By signing up to the scheme you have ‘Taken the Pledge’ to always clean up after your dog, to carry extra doggie bags and to gladly give others a bag for their dog if they ask for one. By wearing the Green Dog Walkers high-viz vest you are indicating that you are a responsible dog-owner participating in and supporting the Green Dog Walkers scheme, and a contact for others who might want information about the scheme.   

We encourage everyone to support the campaign as this will make it more effective. Higher participation will lead to a greater impact in tackling the dog fouling problem in our county.  Most dog owners are very responsible but there are instances of dog fouling on our streets and in green spaces, and it is detrimental to the health of all.  It is very upsetting for the  public when the dog waste goes on shoes, wheelchairs or buggies!

Want to join the Green Dog Walkers scheme?

Fill out  Application Form   and email to environment@galwaycoco.ie or download  Green Dog Walkers  and post to

Environment Section, Galway County Council, Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, Galway, H91H6KX

091509510

Circular Living

Circular living keeps products and material in circulation through processes like improved efficiency, maximising use, conserving, preventing waste, maintaining, sharing, reusing, repairing, remanufacturing, upcycling, recycling, composting and making these actions the norm.

As we embrace Circular Living materials never become waste and nature is regenerated. we are reducing waste, conserving precious resources, spending less, and contributing positively the environment.

https://www.mywaste.ie/circular-living/

FREE VAPE AND E-CIGARETTE RECYCLINGFREE VAPE AND E-CIGARETTE RECYCLING IN THE WEEE IRELAND BLUE BATTERY BOX COLLECTION SYSTEM IN SHOPS, ELECTRICAL RETAILERS, AND LOCAL AUTHORITY CIVIC AMENITY SITES. FULL DETAILS  AT Free Vape & E‑Cigarette Device Recycling - WEEE Ireland

See below details of 2 Anti - Litter poster competitions Galway County Council are running for residents within its functional area.

All schools in the County have been invited to take part in the schools competition, details of which are attached. Please encourage your local school to take part.

The second competition is for individuals and groups such as youth groups, scouts, cubs, artists, etc. of all age groups who wish to take part. School children can take part in both competitions if they wish. The details of this competition is at

https://www.galway.ie/en/news/name,47768,en.html.

https://www.gov.ie/en/organisation/department-of-rural-and-community-development/

An updated edition of a resource guide aimed at ensuring that marginalised and disadvantaged communities have opportunities to participate in local planning and decision-making has been launched.
Read more HERE.

From Department of Rural and Community Development 
Published on 28 February 2024. Last updated on 28 February 2024

The Walks Scheme was launched in 2008 to facilitate the development and maintenance of key walking trails by private landholders. The scheme is administered by 20 Local Development Companies (LDCs) who deliver the scheme in their area on behalf of the Department.

Among the new Walks Scheme trails being announced today are:
Lúb Dún Fearbhaí, Inis Meáin, Co. na Gaillimhe

Further details of the Walks Scheme can be found at:
gov.ie - The Walks Scheme and Rural Recreation Officers (www.gov.ie) .

Read more HERE. 

https://www.gov.ie/en/organisation/department-of-the-environment-climate-and-communications/

The Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications is now seeking Expressions of Interest for participants in the 2024-25 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Champions Programme.

As part of the 2024-2025 programme, a number of organisations and groups from across the country will be appointed 'SDG Champions' to help raise awareness of the importance of the SDGs as the cornerstone of a fair, prosperous and sustainable future for all. As Champions, they will show through their own actions that everyone in society can make a contribution to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The SDGs, also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people could enjoy peace and prosperity. There are 17 SDGs, covering areas such as poverty, shelter, education, health gender equality and clean energy. They are all integrated, recognising that action in one area will affect outcomes in others, and that development must be mindful of social, economic and environmental sustainability.

Already, 34 organisations and groups, large and small, have become SDG Champions, including for example Musgrave, The GAA, ECO-UNESCO, University of Galway, Ballyhoura Development, and Chambers Ireland. Last year, over 80 organisations applied to take part in the programme, from which 26 were chosen as champions, demonstrating the commitment of Irish society to help ensure that we achieve the SDGs.

Applications are sought from all organisations and groups who would like to act as an advocate for the SDGs and a good practice example of how to promote and achieve the goals.
Applications will be accepted in written or video format up to 5:00pm on Monday, 1 April, 2024.

For further information on the SDG Champions Programme, and how to apply, please go togov - Expressions of Interest sought for participants of the 2024-2025 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Champions Programme (www.gov.ie).

Notice of Draft Ministerial Direction in the matter of Section 31 of the Planning & Development Act 2000 (as amended) - Athenry Local Area Plan 2024-2030.

Deadline: 14 Mar, 2024, 4:00pm.

Read more HERE. 

This consultation asks you to consider the draft maps and make your submissions on five separate points:
Proposal to remove full land parcel
Proposal to remove part of land parcel
Proposal to include lands
Submission regarding date on which a site first satisfied the relevant criteria
Landowners seeking land-use zoning (For Landowners only)

The points(s) regarding inclusion and exclusion of lands will remain open for submissions until April 1st 2024.
All submissions to these questions will be published within 10 working days of their receipt. 

The point in relation to Landowners seeking land-use zoning will remain open for submissions until May 31st 2024

Deadline: 31 May, 2024, 4:00pm.

Read more HERE. 

Update from Professor Louise Allcock regarding the current Ecological Sensitivity Analysis of the Celtic Sea, the MPA Advisory Group would like to invite you to participate further in the project by means of a short questionnaire survey seeking your views and perspectives on the Celtic Sea and marine protected areas.

You will find this online survey by clicking on the link below:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Survey_EcoSensitivityAnalysisCelticSea

This survey is anonymous, it should only take about 10 minutes to complete, and we very much welcome and appreciate your input to this aspect of the project. Please note, the online closing date is Friday March 15th at 6pm

From: Marine Environment Section, DHLGH (on behalf of the MPA Advisory Group)

In 2023 this subset of experts completed an ecological sensitivity analysis of the western Irish Sea. The reports and other outputs from this work are available through the following link: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e00ec-marine-protected-areas/. 

The Autism Innovation Strategy aims to address the bespoke challenges and barriers facing autistic people and to improve understanding and accommodation of autism within society and across the public system. The Strategy contains actions that will be undertaken across Government to better support autistic people and their families. The duration of the Strategy will be 18 months.

The Autism Innovation Strategy will complement and enhance wider action on disability by focusing on areas where there are bespoke needs for autistic people.

Read more HERE. 

Claudia Hihetah (chihetah@ucc.ie),  a doctoral researcher in UCC,  is conducting research which aims to document the lived experiences of energy vulnerability in Ireland in order to help inform and improve policy. She is eager to interview people with disabilities to hear about their experience.  I have copied below a couple of paragraphs from her, and attached is her research brief. She's really happy to hear from you with any queries you might have, and she'd be grateful if you would circulate info about her project to disabled people who might be open to participating. 

This study aims to investigate the experiences of energy poverty in Ireland. Energy access is critical for maintaining good health and social well-being in the home. However, vulnerable groups face high costs and insufficient energy to meet their daily needs. Most policies aimed at tackling energy poverty have relied on evidence based on quantitative data, which fails to account for lived experiences and thus fails to address the problem effectively. This research aims to document the experiences of energy vulnerability in Ireland to help inform and improve public policy. You will be asked about your lived experience of energy vulnerability, such as your energy use, energy needs, challenges and daily activities.

If you choose to participate, you will be asked to participate in a one-to-one interview, complete a survey or keep a diary for at least two weeks. The interview will be audio recorded and is expected to take 30-40 minutes to complete. Participation in this study is completely voluntary. There is no obligation to participate, and should you choose to do so, you can refuse to answer specific questions or decide to withdraw from the study prior to completing any of the activities. You do not have to complete all the activities. All information you provide will be confidential, and your anonymity will be protected throughout the study.

Lisa Fenwick
DFI Community Development Officer
086 4670810
lisafenwick@disability-federation.ie

Town and Village Renewal Scheme (TVRS) 2024 – Project Development Measure (PDM)

Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now sought by Galway County Council, from Business Representative Groups, Community and Voluntary Groups for the 2024 Town and Village Renewal Project Development Measure. (PDM).

Number of Expression of Interest for the Project Development that can be shortlisted for further application are:

3 applications up to a maximum of €50,000 at a grant rate of 95%

The purpose of this Measure is to assist Local Authorities and Approved Applicants to contribute to a pipeline of significant, well-developed projects which might be subsequently progressed to construction stage subject to the availability of further funding. Expressions of Interest must be sought by the Local Authority, who can then put forward a maximum of three applications to the Department of Community and Rural Development for consideration and approval.

Funding may be awarded for costs such as detailed design, planning, procurement, professional fees, assessments and other development costs.

Expression of Interest (EOI’s) for the Project Development Measure can be submitted ONLINE only to Galway County Council Grant Schemes and must be received by 5.00pm on Friday March 15th 2024.   

Queries may be submitted to the Community & Rural Development Unit, Galway County Council by emailing: tandv@galwaycoco.ie .  Tel: 091-378850/091-509396/091-509334.
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Online Information Session

Tuesday March 5th at 1.30pm to 2.00pm

Join on your computer, mobile app or room device

Click here to join the meeting

Meeting ID: 345 059 941 186
Passcode: 3ZHxnF

Download Teams | Join on the web

The Rural toolkit-European Commission’s long-term vision for stronger, connected, resilient and prosperous rural areas in the EU. 

The Rural toolkit is the comprehensive guide to EU funding and support opportunities for rural areas in the European Union. It aims to help local authorities, institutions and stakeholders, businesses and individuals to identify and take advantage of existing EU funds, programmes and other funding and support initiatives, and to foster development in rural territories.
Read more: https://funding.rural-vision.europa.eu/?lng=en 

International Protection Integration Fund 2024 Part A

International Protection Integration Fund 2024 Part B

Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth: International Protection Integration Fund 2024

€1,500,000 will be made available to community based organisations to carry out integration projects at a national, regional or local level to support the integration of International Protection Applicants.

Grants of €30,000 to €100,000 will be allocated to successful Scheme A integration initiatives.

Grants of €2,000 to €10,000 will be allocated to successful Scheme B integration initiatives.

Deadline: 12 pm on 6 March 2024

The Communicating Europe Initiative provides funding to voluntary organisations, educational bodies and civil society groups and bodies for projects intended to deepen public awareness of the role that the European Union plays in our daily lives, and improve the quality and accessibility of public information on European issues, at local, regional or national level. Projects should communicate European issues, the role of the European Union and Ireland’s place in Europe.

Read more HERE.

Deadline: 11 March 2024

Groups working with and supporting children are being invited to apply for funding from the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal.

Following the success of the appeal during the Late Late Toy Show more than €3.6 Million is being made available under two grant rounds.

Read more HERE. 

Deadline 14th March 2024.

The Rural Action Awards Scheme, is aimed at supporting rural communities celebrate their own achievements:    

Rural community-based organisations in Northern Ireland, or the border region of Ireland have the opportunity to apply for and be in with a chance of securing £1000 or €1000 towards their chosen community project

The scheme is open to constituted rural community-based organisations including charities, not for profit community groups, sporting and cultural organisations, heritage groups, Parent Teacher Associations, youth groups/clubs and social enterprises.

3 recipients chosen at random.

Read more HERE.

Deadline 20 March 2024.

Minister of State with Special Responsibility for Disabilities, Anne Rabbitte, has launched the next iteration of the Disability and Participation Awareness Fund, designed to support people with disabilities to participate in community life.

Deadline: 5pm on Friday, 5 April.

Read more HERE. 

The ‘Children’s Promise’ grants programme is a funding programme within Katharine Howard Foundation (KHF). KHF particularly focuses on prevention and early intervention initiatives, to support the best life outcomes for young children. This grants programme is a collaboration with Community Foundation Ireland.

Deadline: 1pm on 21 March.

Read more HERE. 

The Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability is a grant for people with a physical, sensory, mental health or intellectual disability.
It provides funding so you can improve how you enter and move around your home.

Read More HERE.

Housing Aid for Older People
Read more HERE.

 

Housing Adaptation Grant
Read more HERE.

Insurance Information Series - Session 3 - Negotiating my Premium and Understanding my Policy

 

Development Perspectives SDG Advocate training

Discover this year's opportunity to join the Development Perspectives SDG Advocate training. It's a great chance for people interested in developing skills and taking on a project to make positive change in their work or volunteering environments.

This year's project is open to anyone in the Adult and Community Education Sector who is passionate about sustainability and interested in joining a group of diverse, creative and innovative people to further their GCE skills and contribute to achieving the SDGs in Ireland. 

For further information and application form below: 

https://developmentperspectives.ie/advocate.html 

Ability Programme, Irish Wheelchair Association

The Ability Programme:

Providing holistic, person-centred Coaching to enable a person to become an independent jobseeker or employee. Funded by the Dormant Accounts Fund and administered through Pobal, Ability is a FREE service, and Ability is an employability and job-seeking skills programme for people aged 18 and over with a physical disability who want to get closer to work and progress on their career journey.

Participants will have access to a range of areas such as:

Coaching is a process that supports and empowers people to get to where they want to be and to achieve the outcomes they want in their life and their career.  A person-centred approach will be used to support each Ability Programme participant. A detailed career progression plan will be developed with the aim of bringing people closer to the labour market and ultimately supporting people gaining meaningful employment.

Ability Connect: Sessions where participants meet each other and discuss interesting topics such as Social Inclusion, Social Connectedness, Benefits of working, Motivation Techniques.

Employability Skills Training: Workshops and support with completing CV and cover letter, job interview skills and preparation training, job interview practice, approaching employers, job-searching training.  

Personal Development Training: Self Confidence Skills, Goal Setting, Motivation skills.

Employer and Participant Employment Support: Support and coaching for the participant starting in the new job or work placement. On entering employment, participants will receive check ins from their Job Coach. Job Coach provides continued support and follow up meetings with both participant and employer.

If any participants are interested in joining the Ability Programme, please find my contact details are below or they may like to visit the website www.iwa.ie

if you would like us to organise a meeting to discuss the Ability Programme or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Susan Broderick, Ability Programme Job Coach, Western Region, Irish Wheelchair Association
Mobile: 085 8019493    Email: susan.broderick@iwa.ie 

Training in Mental Health Peer-Support

Training in Mental Health Peer-Support for all the community clubs and associations.
This training is offered free to all community volunteers in a drive to bring Peer-Support to the heart of communities as a critical part of mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

Course:     Cycle Against Suicide's free* Mental Health Peer Support Training

Delivery:   Online via Zoom from 7-10pm on 4 evenings over 2 weeks 

Training Dates:       

March 2024: Tues 12th, Thurs 14th and Tues 19th, Thurs 21st 
April 2024: Mon 8th, Wed 10th and Mon 15th, Wed 17th
May 2024: Mon 13th, Wed 15th and Mon 20th, Wed 22nd 

To Register:
email: training@cycleagainstsuicide.com 
or online at www.cycleagainstsuicide.com/register-to-become-community-buddy/

*free to over-18s, non-healthcare professionals who volunteer in a community club and association.

Strategies for Supporting Grieving Adolescents Talk

Free public talk for parents, teachers, health and social care professionals, youth workers, sports club coaches and all who support adolescents struggling with the loss of a loved one.

Location: Galvia Suite, Connacht Hotel, Old Dublin Road, Galway

Wednesday 20  March 2024 at 7.30 pm

Keynote Speaker

Dr Mairead Brennan, Chartered Senior Clinical Psychologist, Cancer Care West, offers psychotherapeutic intervention for all family members for end-of-life and bereavement.

Panel for Q and A

Orla Jackson, Acting Principal, Presentation College, Headford, Co Galway

Vinny Flannery, Clinical Manager for Jigsaw Galway / Roscommon.

Breda Fallon, Retired Teacher and Member of the HopeSpace Board of Trustees

Topics

What is normal grieving?

Factors that influence an adolescent while grieving

The impact of various types of loss on the adolescent

The different ways grief can affect  adolescents  – signs to watch out for

How to know when help is needed 

Practical ways to support a grieving adolescent

How to help adolescents to build resilience

Building confidence in communicating with grieving  adolescents

Please book in advance by emailing support@hopespace.ie

or on https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/strategies-for-supporting-grieving-adolescents-free-public-talk-tickets-725624722077?aff=oddtdtcreator

HopeSpace provides a free one-to-one support service for bereaved children and adolescents. Contact support@hopespace.ie or telephone 091 342566.

HopeSpace is reliant on the generosity of donors. Please consider donating at https://www.hopespace.ie/fundraising. We appreciate the support of Galway Rural Development and SICAP

FREE Creative Workshops in Galway - Starts 23 March!

Helium Arts are an award-winning Irish children’s charity that aims to improve the well-being of children and young people living with lifelong physical health conditions by providing free creative workshops in-person and online, tailored to different age groups from ages 6-16.

Why?

We support children to realise their potential. Beyond lifelong health conditions. We use creativity and art to build community, spark friendships, unlock skills and new interests that can help children to overcome adversity.

We believe that creativity empowers children to feel confident, worthwhile and respected and this helps them to become more prepared and capable in daily life.

We conducted an independent evaluation report on the impact of our work in the community last year, and the results are amazing:

93% of parents indicate that Helium Arts had improved their child’s physical health & well-being.

Supported conditions include diabetes, epilepsy, cystic fibrosis, allergies, heart conditions, asthma, spina bifida, juvenile arthritis, rare or complex conditions and many more.

Register your interest to participate in our workshops.

Registrations are now OPEN for our FREE Spring Workshops in Galway and online.

Ages 6-8 
1) Online Spring Saturdays
Every Saturday from 6 Apr - 11 May

Ages 8-12
1) In-Person Spring Saturdays
Starts 13 April!

3) Online Spring Saturdays
Every Saturday from 6 Apr - 11 May

Ages 13-16 
1) In-Person Saturday Meet Ups -Starts 23 March!

All of our in-person workshops are supported by professional artists, volunteers and on-site medical care. 

Certificate in Enterprise and Community Development

Level 6 Certificate in Enterprise and Community Development – ATU Donegal and EQUAL Ireland

We are pleased to announce the commencement of our online ATU Certificate in Enterprise and Community Development starting April 3rd, 2024. We feel this course may be of interest to you or your members as it is tailored for adult learners engaged or interested in Business, Social Enterprise, or Community Development, offering a Level 6 qualification accredited by ATU Donegal.

At EQUAL Ireland, a registered charity since 2001, our mission is to empower communities by providing accessible opportunities for adults to obtain university qualifications. Partnering with ATU and TUS, our programs cater specifically to adult learners who, despite being out of education for some time, bring valuable experience from their roles in community or social enterprise practice, business, or advocacy for their colleagues.

Information Sessions

If you're interested in learning more, we invite you to reach out to us at eoin@equalireland.ie or eddie@equalireland.ie to schedule a call. Additionally, we're hosting Zoom information sessions on Wednesday evenings at 6 pm on March 6th, 13th, and 20th, where you can meet us and have your questions answered.

Zoom link for Information sessions: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86345780184?pwd=NEwxaEI4dnphU2hxemZaMUJ2MFdmQT09

Meeting ID: 863 4578 0184

Passcode: 381140

Here are some FAQs about the program:

When are the workshops? The workshops are held part-time online on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8:30 pm.

How much does it cost? The program fee is €750, payable in instalments over 6 months.

When does it start? The course starts online on Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024. 

The closing date for completed applications is Friday, March 22nd, 2024.

Read more HERE. 

The Wheel Training

Find information about The Wheel training here: https://www.wheel.ie/training

PPN Stakeholder Training

The online only self-paced training videos programme for PPN stakeholders has been developed with SJI. Registrations for the online only training is now open. Social Justice Ireland is providing this training on behalf of the Department. 

The online only training covers the following:
-             An Introduction to the PPNs (2 Modules)
-             Local Government Budgets
-             PPNs and Local Government
-             Effective Participation in Consultations
-             Effective Facilitation
-             Strategic Planning 
-             Measuring Outcomes and Impacts

This is online only and is intended for self-directed learning at the learner’s own pace. Social Justice Ireland will provide some support via the webform on each Module page. There are no scheduled classes as part of this training.

This training is available to the following PPN Stakeholders:
-             PPN Workers
-             PPN Secretariat Members
-             PPN Representatives
-             PPN Member Groups 
-             Local Authority Staff
-             Elected Councillors

To register, please complete the Registration Form at the following link:
Register for Training | Social Justice Ireland

Link to previous PPN Supports & Training available on Department website HERE 

The Wheel - Training for PPN Members / The Wheel Members

Galway County PPN are signed up to The Wheel. PPN Members can access some free trainings provided by The Wheel.
Community Groups can sign up with The Wheel to access their free training/services.
Information on Trainings available at https://www.wheel.ie/training

Dereck Carolan, technology Trainer for NCBI, can help and support communities, specifically people with low sight or no sight and their families. 
Website: https://www.ncbi.ie/supporting-you/technology/ncbi-labs/
Services Offered
•    Group training courses, projects, and talks that will enable the low-vision and no-vision community to access their local area.
•    Technology assessments and demonstrations.
•    Technology clubs and webinars. 
To discuss further how we can work together moving forward. Please feel free to contact: dereck.carolan@ncbi.ie  or  086 608 6771.

The AMDAF Women Roundtable is a platform dedicated to empowering and connecting women of all ages from diverse backgrounds. Our event aims to foster networking opportunities and promote the exchange of ideas among women leaders and entrepreneurs.

Event details:

Date: Saturday March 9th 
Time: 12noon to 5pm 
Venue: Tuam, Co. Galway

If you are interested in participating or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at info.amdaf@gmail.com

Lunchtimes with ConTempo, Tuesday 5 March at 1:10pm in St Nicholas' Collegiate Church, Lombard St, Galway

Entry to the concert is FREE, all are welcome. Donations are gratefully accepted, but not required. No booking necessary, walkups are welcome. 

Lunchtimes with ConTempo take place on the first Tuesday of the month. Galway Music Residency is proudly supported by the Arts Council of Ireland, University of Galway (Education Partner) and Galway City and County Councils. For further information, visit www.galwaymusicresidency.ie

The Dementia inclusive social club was set up in Lackagh last December.

We are hoping to get people with the early stages of Dementia (with a family member) to come to the club.

They can have a chat and a cup of tea or coffee with other families that are in the same situation.  

We can play music, game of cards, do some colouring, do some knitting or crochet etc.).

The club would cover the catchment area of Carnmore Cross, Claregalway, Turloughmore, Lackagh, Ballyglunin, Corrofin, Abbeyknockmoy, Monivea.

It is on every Friday in the Lackagh Parish & Heritage Centre, H65 PY96.

Anam Cara are there to help and support bereaved parents.

Services Offered:

Galway Face to Face meetings

Online meeting for Anam Cara Galway and Mayo. 

If you know any bereaved parents who would like to join either of these meetings please get them to contact us on:

085 288 8888 or info@anamcara.ie. 

As always Anam Cara offer their services free of charge for as long as needed.

Read more about Positive Ageing and supports for older people - Click the links below:

https://www.copegalway.ie/senior-support-service/positive-ageing-week/

https://www.galway.ie/en/services/communityenterpriseeconomicdevelopment/inclusion/agefriendly/

All Age Friendly Ireland newsletters are available on their website - click link below:

www.agefriendlyireland.ie

ALONE is a national organisation that enables older people to age at home.

To read the latest newsletter from Alone, just click the link below and click in the top corner of the Newsletter to change the page... to read click HERE.

Link to Alone website here: https://alone.ie/

• Website: www.galwaycountyppn.ie
• Social Media Tag: #Galwaycountyppn
• Facebook: GalwayCountyPPN  | Twitter: GalwayCoPPN

Newsletter Submissions Deadline: 23rd of each month - for following month's issue.
Next issue has a special focus on: Community & Voluntary Pillar of the PPN