Project Ideas - North Belfast

Are you well? 

The project will provide 20-week project to 10 centre users who have approached me as centre manager and requested healthy living project. The participants will avail of a boxersize class once weekly for 10 weeks by a qualified PT coach for one hour. The next 10 weeks will be facilitated by a cook who will demonstrate making healthy meals on a budget by using an air fryer, which the participants will then be able to take home to continue their healthy lifestyles. Each cooking session will last for one hour per week.

This project “Are you well“ will benefit the centre users participating by promoting the importance of leading healthy lifestyles through exercise and nutritious meals. Cooking on a budget will be discussed each week to the participants and knowledge on how to purchase healthier options when purchasing food/refreshments that are good for the whole family.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

This project will promote individuals to feel better by themselves, physically, mentally and socially and they will gain knowledge on how paramount, having a healthy lifestyle is, so that change can be made.

Amount requested: £2500

Walk & Talk & Chill/Spill

The woman’s group would like to demonstrate being more healthy and have healthier lifestyles. Some of the group need to use mobility aids due to illness health so therefore we felt it would be a good idea to start walking as a group. We would like to walk around places in Belfast beyond that is not easily accessible to us such as Lady Dixon Park.

Walk and talk consists of going to various locations for six weeks and the funding would be used for transport costs:

• Lady Dixon Park
• Cave Hill/Belfast Castle Grounds
• Bangor market
• St George’s market
• Antrim Castle Gardens
• Hillsborough Castle

We would also like to avail of cookery lessons where we could cook in the centre – lunch dishes, and then we eat together in a healthy way instead of always rushing.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Being together as a group to go on nice walks around the city will help us promote our physical, mental health as well as being socially included regardless of our abilities/disabilities.

Amount requested: £2200

ElevateHER 2.0

‘Nourish, Move, Thrive’
 The project is focused on empowering young women to complete a wholistic wellness programme that includes Nutritional Advice alongside preparing and cooking healthy meals at a low cost, Gym and Dance sessions in a personal studio that will promote a positive change in physical and mental wellbeing.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

It will promote healthier lifestyles through education/physical activities which will not only improve physical health but will have a positive impact on mental health. By providing females with a community that will support them in gaining knowledge and skills in nutrition and meal preparation as well as forming healthier habits. 

Amount requested: £2480

Mens Mental Health Through Fitness

Cruestodians football club plans to run a project aimed primarily in the north Belfast area. This project would be aimed at our members or those who would be interested in joining the club, however, it would be open to all comers from the 4 Belfast areas.

Cruestodians was formed 2022 by a group of parents whose children played youth football at Crusaders. Club Mantra is a return to football or introduction no matter what age or level of ability. To help improve or maintain the mental health of all its playing or non-playing members.

• MOVE MORE - Funded or subsidized gym membership for club members with24/7 access to the facility. PT available for assistance. Personal fitness plans created to suit all levels of fitness and or ability. Progress tracking for all taking part.
• EAT WELL - Nutritionist contacted to support. Meal plans completed by dietitian to suit any individuals taking part in the project. Meal demonstration to show all those taking part in the project easy ways to maintain and create healthy meals.
• PROMOTION OF PROJECT -
  Advertisement through our social media platform and flyers/posters in members workplaces and our meeting venue

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Mental health among men is becoming more apparent in recent times. It’s well known that exercise/fitness are a catalyst for better mental health so it’s a promotion of this. Eating well goes in partnership with successful training and fitness program and gaining results. If we can help those taking part to improve in their exercise and eating habits, it would benefit all participants.

Amount requested: £2000

Set Dancing For All 

Céilí Dancing & Set Dancing has proved increasingly popular in recent years though the numbers participating declined following the covid pandemic. We hope to invigorate the céilí dancing scene across north Belfast by hosting 1 free 90-minute weekly class a month for 5 months with live musicians in the fabulous Duncairn Cultural Centre.

Set dancing & Céilí dancing is a wonderfully aerobic and sociable activity and will have wanting more at the end of an evening. All the ceili dances I propose teaching will involve dancers moving individually and as part of a couple and will also require lots of interaction with other dancers in the set.

All the dances have different levels of technical ability and there are always dances for newcomers, people with slight mobility issues, older people as well as those experienced dancers who have been dancing for many many years. Detailed instruction will be provided and by using experienced musicians we will tailor the dances and of course the music to those attending.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Set & Céilí dancing will improve the fitness levels of anyone taking part as it’s a wonderfully aerobic activity. Additionally the requirement to listen to instruction and coordinate movements to specific musical genres significantly improves mental wellbeing also.
As set dancing is so sociable, isn’t unique to any one section of our community, can be done & enjoyed by anybody new friendships will undoubtedly be forged during the classes.
 Anyone attending will not only see how many people of similar age groups enjoy set dancing but will also get to experience great craic on their doorstep in the iconic location that is the Duncairn Cultural Centre.

Amount requested: £2500

Care & Nursing Home Ceili Dancing Sessions 

8 experienced ceili dancers & step dancers will visit 4 different Nursing or Care homes to have a mini céilí lasting approximately 1 hour with the residents. The dancers will demonstrate some set dances & ceili dances and then get as many of the residents or their relatives or indeed the carers as possible up to dance along with one of the group. We will also demonstrate some solo step dances also.

The dances will be very basic & simple but at the same time anyone taking part they will be moving themselves around the dance floor.
For those who cannot get up to dance we will have some simple ‘Clap & Foot dances’ allowing them to remain in their chairs but able to move their hands & feet.

 We will be using recorded music throughout, though we will have guest musicians on occasion.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Listening to music and moving in synchronisation with the music is not only great exercise but provides a great sense of wellbeing.  Simply put it is great exercise
Following dancing instructions also stimulates the brain a lot also. Additionally the requirement to listen to instruction and coordinate movements to specific musical genres significantly improves mental well being also.
 Having a céilí tailored for the residents demonstrably shows that the residents are still an integral part of the community where they lived their lives prior to entering the care home.

Amount requested: £2080

Fitness Freddy Health & Wellbeing

The Fitness Freddy Active at schools and Well Being programme is a partnership with 3 North Belfast schools, Springfield primary and nursery unit, Ligoneil primary and Nursery unit and Glenwood P/S. The programme will provide physical activity sessions within the school full of fun and laughter.

This project will support children from 4 years to 11 years of age in mainstream schools to achieve this target in a fun environment. The activity will focus on an interactive dance fitness raising awareness and building confidence through activity, games and talks around the 5 Steps to wellbeing. Each school will benefit from 10 tutor hours of activity spaced out over a number of weeks to accommodate the school’s schedule.

 A report by Stranmillis University College (2021) emphasised that both PE and daily outdoor physical activity have a central role to play in active learning and increased engagement. The guidance highlights the benefits of a minimum of two hours physical activity a week in the development of resilience and the positive impact on children’s health and wellbeing.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

This programme will make a difference by providing fun activities including dance, games and interactive talks in 3 local schools that will benefit the children's confidence, physical fitness and wellbeing. They will come home from school with a sense of achievement and improved mental wellbeing.

Amount requested: £2500

Jumpng for Joy

Jumping for joy is a project that was designed to run across two venues in North Belfast and therefore will cover a vast majority of the North Belfast council area. This project caters to a wide range of children of all ages and is designed to get them more active through participating in trampolining
Trampolining is a great way to get everyone active as it is open to all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities. Unfortunately, due to current equipment being out-dated and damaged they are limited to the number of people who can participate in this project.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

This grant would let the club purchase a new trampoline bed to ensure more people in the council area can benefit from the equipment by getting more active.

Amount requested: £2500

Holy Family Guides Get Moving

May 2024 will see Holy Gamily Guide Unit out and about with our step challenge, in each of our 4 sections as well as our volunteer leaders and parents. We will divide into small groups and will record the number of steps each day using fitness trackers in each group over the month of May and report these to our team captains. We will have some special challenges and prizes each week such as vouchers for exercise sessions and local fruit and veg shops. We hope by having some competition it will encourage participation for all members of the unit.

In June we will have a celebration event to promote the project and celebrate the achievement of the girls and their parents, we will invite local businesses to come and demonstrate some healthy eating options and some low-cost exercise options locally especially coming into the summer holidays to 

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

As we will be having a parents challenge the girls will be encouraging their parents and families to get out walking in the local parks in the area. We hope this will continue after the challenge and the girls and parents will continue to keep walking in the local area. After all, it takes 3 weeks to make a habit! This will also help parents to meet other parents and continue to make healthy choices.

Amount requested: £2500

Promoting Healthy Communities

Our project is aimed at promoting a healthy community and improving the overall well-being and quality of life for the wider community. 

• Healthy Eating and Nutrition Sessions: This will help promote physical activity and healthy eating habits within the community. This will include initiatives like fitness classes, walking in parks and nutrition workshops. 
• Health Education and Promotion: This will help develop health education programs and campaigns to raise awareness about key health issues within the community (especially various types of cancer). It will focus on preventive measures, healthy lifestyle choices, and the importance of regular health check-ups. 
• Mental Health Support Sessions: This will address mental health issues by offering resources such as counselling services, support groups, and mental health awareness campaigns. Reducing the stigma associated with mental health is also important especially for people in the BAME community. Cultural Sensitivity: Be culturally sensitive and respectful of the diverse backgrounds and needs of the community members. Tailor health programs and materials to be culturally relevant and inclusive. 
• Celebration and Recognition: Celebrate the achievements and milestones of the project with the community. Recognize the efforts of individuals and organizations that have contributed to the community's improved health. 

We are committed to promoting a healthy community in an ongoing process that requires dedication, collaboration, and adaptability. By addressing a range of health-related factors and involving the community in the process, we continue to work towards creating a healthier, happier, and more resilient community.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Improved Physical Health: Initiatives focusing on physical health, such as exercise programs, healthier food options, and public health campaigns, can lead to a reduction in chronic diseases, obesity, and other health-related issues.

Enhanced Mental Well-being: Healthy community programs often include mental health support, stress reduction activities, and initiatives to combat loneliness and isolation. These can lead to improved mental health and a greater sense of well-being among residents.

Increased Social Cohesion: Health-focused community events and activities provide opportunities for social interaction, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit. This increased social cohesion is vital for a vibrant and supportive community.

Amount requested: £2500

One Community

Limestone united wish to use cross community multi sports to engage young people from the Lower North Belfast interfaces to become more active and have a healthy diet to benefit their physical and mental Health.  Our young people will also benefit from taking part in a cross-community project.

We will engage 20 young people aged 14 – 25 years in the following activity, good relations football session delivered by Limestone united community champions and local coaches, walking football to support people who are currently inactive, recovering from injury or feel isolated from their peers or community. Futsal coaching and good relations matches delivered by a Football diversity project called World United, basketball and netball. Our young people will be able to avail themselves of training from Midland boxing club including training in nutrition and life skills such as resilience and motivation.
 

• We will do walks in the local community.
• We will deliver workshops to support learning regarding anger management, positive mental health, the health benefits of taking part in sport and the dangers of smoking and vaping. Helping young people make choices.
• We will work with the Irish Football association, GAA and Ulster Rugby on a game of 3 halves session and deliver Disability sports session Game for a Game delivered by Limestone united.

We will deliver healthy eating sessions in line with the cost-of-living crisis in two local primary schools combining a sports session. This will be delivered to the shared education classes from the primary schools.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Our project will help empower our young people to be active in their personal lives and in their community. It will also help build positive engagements at our interfaces and create good relations and connections through sport and show Belfast as a caring and healthy  city where young people can make contributions.

Amount requested: £2500

On the Move - Fitter and Better

The North Belfast Men's Shed group is interested in incorporating exercise and healthy eating into their activities, as a way to improve their well-being and attract more members. They have come up with the following programme
Move Better Programme 2024 

• The group will hire a qualified chef to teach them how to cook healthy meals, using fresh and nutritious ingredients. The group will participate in the preparation and cooking of the meal. The group will then share the meal they have cooked and enjoy each other's company.
• After the meal, the group will go for a 30-minute walk in Alexander Park, which is conveniently located next to their premises.
• The walk will help them digest the food and burn some calories, as well as appreciate nature and scenery accompanied by a local historian who will educate them in the history of the park. The group will also invite a member of Belfast parks from Belfast City Council to take part in one of their walks to discuss, outline the proposed changes and development plans for Alexandra Park, (This Park plan is open to the public for consultation and the men’s input will be useful)
• Once a month, the group will invite a yoga and exercise instructor to lead them in a session of physical and mental exercises, such as stretching, breathing and meditation. The session will last for one hour and will be followed by a walk in Alexander Park, If the weather is nice, the yoga and exercise session will take place outdoors in the park.
• The group consists of men over 60 years old, many of whom do not have a regular healthy eating or exercise routine. The programme aims to help them change their old habits and lifestyle, and to provide them with social support and motivation.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

It has been widely research that a large proportion of  older men neglect their health, do not follow a healthy diet and engage socially less than women. Men do not exercise or regularly or cook for themselves, preferring processed ready meals or takeaways. The members of North Belfast Men’s Shed are constantly looking for new activities to encourage more members, retain the members they already have and take all the necessary steps to leading a healthy and happy life style physically and mentally. The North Belfast Men’s shed was established  ten years and were the forerunners for the men’s shed when it was a new concept in Belfast This Shed has led the way for many men’s shed to pop up in Belfast and beyond.  It has given many men a lifeline out of isolation and loneliness. The difference it makes will be immeasurable.  

Amount requested: £2500

Girdwood Get Active

In order to keep kids moving and the Girdwood site animated with positive activity we will deliver a 12-week football-based programme on Sundays from 10-1pm at Girdwood aimed at creating opportunities for kids to play beyond the end of the season April-June.  

This will keep them engaged, keep them active and then working with local partners and health support services to add value to the programme we will distribute information to kids and families about looking after mental health through Take 5 Steps for wellbeing, Support Services in Belfast through Z Cards and we will create an additional 36hrs of physical activity opportunities for 200+ young people.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Our young people will take part in positive activity based on Take 5 Steps for wellbeing in a safe and shared space Girdwood.  More active young people contributes to better physical and mental health. Our Programme will get young people in Belfast Active and contribute towards the NI Programe for Government – giving children the best start as they have access to more health opportunities. Happy healthy active lives and the Belfast Agenda - where everyone experiences good health and wellbeing.

Amount requested: £2500

Healthy Living Project

The over the wall woman's group is a cross community group that is made up of 25 women that come from either side of the peace wall between the lower Oldpark and Cliftonville which is also multicultural. The project will be delivered in one of the most deprived wards in North Belfast to help bring two communities together through movement via chair aerobics and cooking classes based on culture and cooking on a budget to provide healthy meals for their families and friends with slow cookers and air fryers and woks.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

This project will promote being healthy in communities in the current cost of living crisis. It will also reduce social isolation, build friendships and help learn about other cultures. It will be a basis for future projects on possibly running lunch clubs at a community level.  

Amount requested: £2500

Introduction to Gaelic (Age 4 to 16)

This project is aimed at children & young people who have little to no experience with sport and wish to learn the fundamentals of Gaelic football. The aim of the project would be to build the numbers within our existing juvenile teams and encourage local children to take up a new sport.

The project will run over a 4-week period with the aim of integrating participants into existing juvenile structures within the club. We will use a player centred approach to develop the basic skills of each child and hope to place emphasis on their long-term development in Gaelic games.

Each age group will look at simple skills from agility, balance and co-ordination and progress to the specific fundamental skills of Gaelic football.
Coaches will aim to establish participants’ understanding of simple rules while embedding good ethics and sportsmanship within the game.

With this project, we hope to nurture developmental skills of players to create a pathway for future technical development of their athletic ability while building sustainability within our club. As a club we strive to develop communication skills, build confidence, and create long lasting friendships for all participants.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

This project will embrace the influential years of young players in the local community and offer the opportunity to develop confidence, self-worth and resilience through sports. Individuals and local neighbourhoods will benefit as the project encourages players to incorporate healthy habits into their lives while providing a sense of purpose and belonging within their club and community.

Amount requested: £2499.97

More More Eat Well North Belfast Families

Reach Out HLC received the first pot off funding from MMEW, with this funding, we focus on the health and fitness of our mum's, but a fantastic, unexpected outcome from this funding was that the children off the mums that took part in Move More Eat Well mum's benefited from the programme. The children off the mum's started attended junior gym at challenge training studio's. As well as link's with our Belfast Outcomes Area Group afternoon's programme (small group off 12 young people aged 4-11 years with additional and mild complex needs). CTS provided movement sessions for the children and half term trip was organised to the gym for the children.

The mums and children had a fabulous experience with the first round off MMEW funding. Therefore, we'd like to apply for funding to build upon all of our experiences and include the whole family in this round off funding.To help all members off the family to 'move more and eat well to feel better', the programme would include:

• Challenge Training Studio Family Membership (June & July) - 8 families
• Mini Medics Family Training with Challenge Training Studio - 8 families
• Summer Family Cook Along with Reach Out HLC -  8 families         
• Family walk and photography workshops with The Duncairn Art and Cultural Centre - 8 families

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

All programmes would be facilitated in July and August 2024 - due cost of living, families in North Belfast will be snuggling to pay for cost for activities during the summer months. A total 32 families will benefit from the funding (average 5 members per family NB). Total 160 participants benefit from Move More Eat Well North Belfast Families.

Amount requested: £2500

Community Mini-Soccer for All

The main aim of our organisation is to promote sport participation for young people through our club by creating a culture of safety and fun. We also aim to develop young people’s skills in football, their mental and emotional well-being, and their physical health so that we can do our part to create a better future for our youth and the wider community.

To help achieve this aim, we are applying for funding to ensure our mini-soccer programme can take place over the requested months, ensuring young people can get the best start to their lives and take part in fun and engaging activities which will help shape their future and provide opportunities to an area that is severely deprived.

The project will ensure over 100 young people will 'move more' and will provide activity for 48 hours in total. Our project will include team building activities, football activities and other fun and engaging games to ensure that young people are getting the best out of the sessions. The project will ensure that our youth 'move more' improving community physical health, whilst also gaining side benefits of social and mental wellbeing at a young age.

Hope4LifeNI statistics reveal that more than 20% of young people are suffering “significant mental health problems” by their 18th birthday. It is also known that Belfast itself has a mental health/wellbeing problem. We believe that in order to reduce this problem in future generations, then our youth must be provided with opportunities such as the proposed, which will improve both physical health and mental wellbeing, creating a better future for all within our outreach in the Belfast City Council area. Nisra statistics show that the young people who will benefit from this project live in some of the most deprived across the Council area, and Northern Ireland as a whole. Our project will take place in Shankill, and the majority of beneficiaries will be from this area.

Therefore, we aim to avail of funding to ensure that we can run the proposed programme free of cost to participants and families, ensuring income deprivation metrics do not impact young people's opportunities. This project will ensure some of the most deprived families in Belfast benefit, whilst also ensuring young people reach their daily recommended physical exercise throughout the 12- week period.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Our project will positively impact the council area by bringing young people together under a football programme which will support community connectivity. All young people are welcomed to take part in our project regardless of gender or background. Our previous programmes have had a great response from young girls who are an underrepresented group and we anticipate this project will have the same impact on young girls in the council area. Our programme also supports improving health and wellbeing for the participants. We will improve participant health and wellbeing through physical activity sessions in the form of fun and engaging football sessions. We are providing a local project which will provide increased activity to support the health and wellbeing of young people in the local area, providing a safe space for young people to meet the daily recommended physical activity guidelines, thus improving physical and mental health through increased self-confidence and motivation. Our project will shape the future generation of Belfast, ensuring that they are provided with the best opportunities free-of-charge.

Amount requested: £2500

Move it! Move it!

Our project aims to help educate, empower and enable our women through cooking classes, nutritional awareness sessions, arts and crafts workshops and accessible activities such as a walking group. Enrolment and expressed interest in our project has far and above exceeded expectations and we are overwhelmed by a demand. If we were successful, this funding would equip Shankill Women’s Centre, to bring to fruition its plans for a Move it! Move it! Scheme. A scheme which incorporates Aqua Aerobics, Pilates and Dancercise, activities that fall outside the stereotypical gym membership and are significantly more accessible and affordable for all abilities spanning the generations, on a four-week rotation over a thirteen-week period. Rounded with an intergenerational sports day, in which our families can compete as a team in those traditional sporting races – relays, egg and spoon, sack race, skipping, hula and such like.  

The final event with the theme of fun and sports, will bring together Healthy Eating information stations and demonstrations by a trained a facilitator. Halo Healthy Kitchen will provide live demonstrations. This will encourage participation while providing the knowledge and information on how to feed themselves and their families healthy on a budget.

This fun event while engaging through play, music, dance and the overall sense of inclusion will meet all targets on the Move More and Eat Well project.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

The primary objectives of our project is to promote physical activity, improve mental health and wellbeing and reduce social isolation in the area with high levels of multiple deprivation and poor socio-economic wealth. This fun event while engaging through play, music, dance and the overall sense of inclusion will meet all targets on the Move More and Eat Well project.

Amount requested: £1898

Wee Macs investing in volunteer coaches to deliver lifelong participation in sport and exercise

St Malachys OB Youth Football Club provide safe and fun football coaching to over 550 girls and boys aged 4 to 15 across North Belfast to develop and grow them at the most crucial stage of their life. Our club and coaches are accredited by the Irish Football Association and Belfast City Council. We work with local children to enable them to learn essential football techniques, build their confidence, improve their fitness, and provide the most important ingredient of all, FUN!

This project will provide first aid training to 36 volunteer coaches across our club. Our young players face physical risks during their training and matches. It is essential volunteer coaches can react to a first aid emergency quickly and safely. Equally as important is that our activities cannot take place without volunteer coaches that are appropriately trained in first aid. This cannot be stressed enough. Safe sports coaching can only take place with appropriately trained volunteer coaches.

Because of our safe and fun football coaching our young people are supported to have:

1. Greater Mental, Emotional, and Social Health with: lower rates of stress, anxiety and depression; higher self-esteem and confidence; improved well-being; and increased life satisfaction.
2. Improved Physical Health with: improved weight status; reduced risk of cancer and diabetes; increased physical activity levels; improved fitness; and increased overall quality of life.
3. Improved Educational and Career Success with: improved teamwork, social skills, and social responsibility; improved life skills; improved educational and work skills; higher levels of academic achievement; and greater leadership qualities.
4. Lifelong participation in sports. Adolescents who play sports are 8 times more likely to be physically active into adulthood than those who do not play sports. 8 times more!

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

This project will benefit our local community as the coaching that we provide to over 550 girls and boys from North Belfast, 44 weeks a year, is only possible when our volunteer coaches are appropriately trained and resourced. The benefits of moving more cannot happen with investment in community volunteers.

We call on the good people of Belfast to vote for our project and support your local volunteers. Our volunteers give up so much of their time and skills to support the young people in your local community. They support your young people 44 weeks a year, through wind, rain, ice, and snow. Please lend your support to ensure they have the necessary training to coach your young people. Your local sports club cannot exist without appropriately trained volunteers. Please vote for us. Support your local volunteers.

Amount requested: £2500

Wee Macs - strengthening, conditioning and nutrition programme

St Malachys OB Youth Football Club provide safe and fun football coaching to over 550 girls and boys aged 4 to 15 across North Belfast to develop and grow them at the most crucial stage of their life. Our club and coaches are accredited by the Irish Football Association and Belfast City Council. We work with local children to enable them to learn essential football techniques, build their confidence, improve their fitness, and provide the most important ingredient of all, FUN!

This project will provide a 6-week strengthening, conditioning and nutrition programme to support 120 of our young players aged 9 to 15.

Strength and Conditioning training involve a wide range of exercises developed to build a variety of skills with a focus on mind, mobility, stability, strength, endurance, power, speed, agility and performance.
The project will improve strength and endurance, and as a result, will reduce the incidence and severity of sport injuries, and improve technique and overall performance. This training will strengthen supporting muscles, even out muscle imbalances, increase mobility, correct posture, stabilize joints, learn new movement patterns and enhance coordination and peripheral skills.

The course provides a nutrition seminar educating the young athletes on the importance of nutrition for sports performances.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

This project will benefit our local community as 120 girls and boys from North Belfast will have lower abdominal fat, better cardiovascular health, controlled blood sugar levels, reduced cancer risk, lowered injury risks, strengthened mental health, improved flexibility and mobility, elevated body image, and greater knowledge about strengthening, conditioning, and nutrition of their body.
We call on the good people of Belfast to vote for our project and support the health and fitness of your local young people. In a world of increasing poor health and obesity combined with spiralling sports and fitness costs this is your opportunity to help your local young people improve their health and fitness. Please vote for us. Support your local young people to move more and eat well.

Amount requested: £2500

Hurling Heights: Empowering and Encouraging Youth through Gaelic Games

In recent years, our Gaelic Games, particularly hurling, have seen a significant decline in participation. At our school we aim to inspire children to embrace physical activity, especially hurling.

The funding from this project will enable our school to acquire essential equipment and provide training for both students and staff, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, motivating hurling lessons. Despite the recent introduction of a 'Ball Wall,' insufficient equipment hinders full utilisation of the facility which can be used during break and lunch. With the necessary resources and training, we believe this facility can become a hub for active engagement, motivating and encouraging our children to join the local clubs like Naomh Éanna. It will encourage participation in after school clubs with the potential to transfer these skills to a range of sports and provide opportunities to connect with other schools and clubs in the wider community. Unfortunately, with today’s current financial climate, a lot of families are unable to purchase the equipment for hurling and therefore children are missing out on opportunities that could make a huge difference in all aspects of their lives.

This initiative would not only benefit our school and children but will also contribute to a more active and connected local community. It will improve the physical and mental health of children in our school, shaping them into the successful future adults of our community. Hurling embraces our culture and encourages life-long participation as well as providing safe and inclusive facilities and environments for our children.

Hurling instils unique skills and qualities in our children, fostering positive, active, and responsible role models within our community and society- a distinct impact unmatched by any other sport. The support from this project will aid in cultivating social connections, fostering collaborative community efforts, and mitigating social tensions within our community. A successful outcome for this project would offer our children not only a healthy lifestyle and wellbeing, but a feeling of belonging, a support network and instil a sense of achievement and pride in their community and Irish heritage.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Gaelic football and hurling are two of the most popular sports in Belfast. With the support of this programme children of Belfast will develop their fitness, improve their health and well being and develop a range of skills to support them not only in Gaelic Games but in other sports. It will provide children, who may not have the opportunity otherwise, to play for local clubs and even to go on to play for their county. This will have a positive impact on the children’s lives as well as our community.

Amount requested: £2380

Youth Physical Activity Programme for All

Our project is based upon providing structured football activities to young people in North Belfast over a 12-week period at Girdwood Community Hub. The programme will target young people aged 12-16, offering 2 hours per week of football and physical activity.
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Our project aims to engage young people in football and various physical activities with the aim to enhance young people’s physical, mental and social well-being while fostering a strong sense of community cohesion for the local community. Our project meets the multifaceted needs of the youth in North Belfast. Our organisation has extensive experience in providing programmes to young people in the local area, and many of our volunteers are from the local area, therefore understanding the needs of young people and how the project can be adapted to improve young people's quality of life.

There is a clear, identifiable need for our project to take place in our local area. We attract members all over Belfast, which has extremely high rates of deprivation. Our organisations falls within the top 2% most deprived areas for multiple deprivation measures across Northern Ireland. We are also within the top 2% for health deprivation and disability deprivation, top 8% for crime and disorder deprivation, and top 1% for income deprivation affecting children. Families in our area need access to free programmes for their children to ensure we get some of the most deprived people in our community moving through structured activity. Our current equipment is currently run down, reducing our ability to run fun/engaging programmes for young people.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Our project is carefully created to address mental wellbeing, physical wellbeing and social wellbeing by promoting teamwork, resilience and self-confidence alongside physical fitness. We understand the benefits that moving more can provide to young people in the local area, and this has formed the basis of our project. By encouraging participation in local football clubs and getting people to 'move more' together, we are fostering stronger ties within the community. This not only benefits the children directly involved but also creates a ripple effect, enhancing the overall fabric of the council area.

Our focus isn't just on short-term benefits. By instilling healthy habits and a love for physical activity at a young age, we're sowing the seeds for a healthier, more active, and more engaged generation that will positively impact the council area for years to come. The proposed project is open to all, regardless of skill level or background. It's about creating a supportive environment where everyone feels welcome and encouraged to participate in physical activity - aligning with the fund's priority of 'moving more'. By supporting our project, you can expect to see a generation of empowered, healthier and more connected young people, with an improved well-being and improved prosperity of the community.

Amount requested: £2500

Moving Mama's

The project will bring together a group of 8 mums to take part in a project aimed at improving their fitness alongside their children in their local community. They will take part in 6 weeks bootcamp classes at Mama Fit NI and 6 weeks of baby yoga with the little yogi.  

A large barrier to mums staying healthy and working out is childcare. Childcare can often be difficult to find, especially with single and young parents who are isolated and have no one else to help. Childcare is often a cost effect option for many women, and they then eventually stopped going to the gym all together to prioritise having their children minded whilst they are at work.

By providing these classes we are providing alternative methods of exercise where children are welcome, we are helping build fitness levels and confidence, as well as connecting isolated mums. The main benefit to providing these classes is that we will be helping to build gym and exercise confidence in mums and improve overall health. After this project 2 of the mums will also complete baby yoga training, enabling them to continue hosting these classes and potentially start their own businesses.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

• 8 mums complete the programme and develop healthy lifestyles
• Free workout classes provided for mums in the community
• 8 mums gaining workout and body confidence
• 8 mums having the opportunity to bond with their children through exercise
• 2 members of the community trained to deliver baby yoga

Amount requested: £2500

Young Women's Fitness

The project will bring together a group of 8 young women age 18+ to take part in twelve weeks of bootcamp style workout classes in their local community. They will take part in 2 workouts a week completing a total of 24 workouts.

Last year we did this project with a group of younger girls, they took part in boxing lessons with a local club. During this time some of our volunteers joined in to help. They then decided that they felt this project would be something they would like to do for older girls.

The group felt that a large barrier to women staying healthy and working out is gym anxiety. They felt they wouldn’t feel comfortable going to a gym alone and the rare occasion that they did it was usually due to paying a female personal trainer for company. This was not a cost effect option for many women, and they then eventually stopped going to the gym all together.

By providing these classes we are providing a cheaper alternative to the gym, building fitness levels and confidence, as well as connecting like-minded people. The main benefit to providing these classes is that we will be helping to build gym and exercise confidence in young women and improve overall health.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

• 8 young women complete the programme and develop healthy lifestyles
• 12 weeks of free workout classes provided for young women in the community
• 8 young women gaining workout and body confidence

Amount requested: £2400

Streetbeat Youth Project -  Health and Wellbeing

Streetbeat Youth Project is a registered charity based in the Greater Shankill area that works with young people aged 11 to 25 years old, to help young people fulfil their potential. Streetbeat strives to create spaces for all young people to develop personally and socially and to engage in informal education through our many bespoke services that addresses the needs of young people. Streetbeat offers a wide range of services to young people that will create a safe space to learn, grow and to be challenged in their values and beliefs. Our services that we offer are, inclusive and bespoke group work, A drop in, Schools based Youth Work, 1 to 1 mentoring, counselling, Outdoor Adventure based programmes and Volunteering programmes. This Move Well, Eat Well Programme will aim to explore the two key elements of being active and eating better, which the purpose of improving the health and wellbeing of the young people, there will be a group of young people at 10 participants.

The first part of the programme “Move Well” will seek to encourage young people to be more active by participating in outdoor activities that will be engaging, challenging and fun. The outdoor adventure-based facilitator will creativity use the outdoor space for the activities, these activities will range from Climbing, Bush Craft Skills, Archery, Mountain Hiking, Hikes, outdoor water pursuits and many more that will be trailered to the needs of the young people, but also seeking to challenge young people to push themselves out of their comfort zones.

 The second part of the programme “Eat Well”, will also seek to improve the skills and knowledge of young people in the area of cooking, managing budgets and improving on their personal and social development. There will be a classes in which young people will attend, were a tutor will teach young people the steps and process in preparing and cooking a meal. There will also be elements of the programme where young people will participate in sessions to teach how to budget, how to create a healthy meal plans etc.

Alongside the two elements of the Programme of Eat Well and Move Well, young people will participate in an OCN accredited qualification that links into mental health and wellbeing, outdoor adventure, and cooking. Thought-out the young people will gain skills and qualities throughout participating in practical and interactive sessions to improve their health and wellbeing; however, they will also gain a qualification which will be beneficial to put onto their CV.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

This programme will seek to improve the lives of young people’s health and wellbeing by actively developing skills and knowledge around being active and eating healthy. Young people would discuss nowadays that they don’t have the skills or knowledge of how to cook or be limited in the activities to improve their health and wellbeing by being active.   By introducing them to a professional kitchen to cook and prepare food, young people will develop their confidence and self-esteem. On the other end of the programme young people will be introduced to different outdoor activities that they may never be able to participate in. This will broaden their horizons, develop their confidence, improve health and fitness and also maybe doing something that they have never done. Looking at enhancing their engagement in the community by coming to streetbeat 1 night a week for this programme, young people can also take part in other services in streetbeat such as mentoring, counselling, or our drop in services every Thursday and Friday night in the Woodvale/Shankill area.

Amount requested: £2500

Girdwood Active Schools 

TAMHI will deliver an Active Mindful Schools Programme working with 6 primary schools in North Belfast working with approx. 25 kids in each school, total 150 (1.5hr sessions) , deliver a programme that champions the Take 5 Steps for Wellbeing and emotional literacy through physical activity based games over 5 weeks each school supported to be "Champions of Take 5"

We have created a pre-practical theory session that kids watch and take part in activities that champion the Take 5 Steps for wellbeing as tools for positive mental health and enhanced emotional literacy.

The games we roll out all have mental health messages built in and have proven (PhD Research) to increase knowledge and tackle stigma and improve Take 5 significantly as a lot of people do not know about this.

We teach positive lifestyles, positive activity, teamwork, friendship and focus on Take 5 Steps supporting healthy Belfast Citizens.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

We know based on our approach, 98% will enjoy taking part and be active, 88% will learn about mental health and 86% will be better equipped to promote positive mental health in their lives.

Amount requested: £2300

Recreational Netball

The project will recruit individuals of all ages from across Belfast to get involved with recreational netball sessions. Sessions will take place at Ulster University Belfast led by netball NI coaches and will finish up with a festival, with free refreshments provided.

This project will allow a range of Belfast residents to mix with one another in a fun environment, learn new skills within the sport and be physically active. The festival will allow all groups to mix with one another for an extended period of time to celebrate all that they have achieved in an active and fun way.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

It will encourage women of all ages to get involved and get active. It is clear that around their late teens many girls have given up sport, this will give women an opportunity to get re-engaged with sport and to get active in a fun non-pressured way.

Amount requested: £2500

UU Boxing Boot Camp

The UU Boxing Boot Camp will see participants attend two weekly sessions at the Ulster University Belfast campus for six weeks. These sessions will involve a range of pad work, skipping and conditioning activities with the aim of getting participants more active and healthier through the sport of Boxing. Sessions will be led by IABA qualified coaches who will show participants the correct techniques to use. At the end of the 6-week boot camp, participants will have the opportunity to attend local boxing clubs to get involved with the sport further.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Not only will participants get fitter, healthier and stronger through the boot camp, but they will also obtain mental & social benefits through their participation. It is hoped that by being signposted to local clubs, participants will remain involved in the sport long after the programme.

Amount requested: £2500

Tag Rugby Festival

Tag Rugby is a non-contact form of Rugby. Often played within mixed teams of 7 (4 men 3 women). The sport follows the principal rules of rugby, replacing contact with the removal of Velcro tags which simulate a “tackle”.

Tag Rugby is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK and Ireland, with the Tag Rugby World Cup being held in Limerick just last year. It is an easy to learn, fun, social sport. Which people of any fitness or ability can pick up and play.

The Tag Rugby festival will invite community groups, schools and students to participate in a taster session followed by a small sided and fun tag rugby tournament. The event will be open to all. Participants will be taken through the fundamental skills & rules of the sport and then placed into mixed teams to participate in a fun tournament.
 
The event will provide participants with new skills, exposure to a growing sport, potential for lifelong participation and mental wellbeing impacts of participation.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

 Tag Rugby provides an opportunity for the people of Belfast to get active and try a new sport. With its low barrier of entry, Tag Rugby is a fun experience for beginners, enticing them to get further involved in the sport and continue an active lifestyle. The social aspect of Tag Rugby provides a healthy and positive environment where people can develop friendships and improve mental health.

Amount requested: £2500

UU Couch to 5k

Couch to 5k is a well-established programme which aims to transform your sedentary lifestyle into active one where you can complete a 5k run at the end. Over the 12-week programme, Belfast residents will meet at Ulster University Belfast to complete weekly Couch to 5K sessions. Sessions will progress from a combination of walking and jogging to a 5k run.

All sessions will begin in one of the Ulster University Sport's active spaces to warm up and then utilise a range of running routes through the Titanic Quarter, the Maritime mile and the City Centre. Sessions will be led by Athletics NI running group leaders. The leader will set a pace which is manageable for all to complete the session.

At the end of the 12 weeks all participants will be invited to complete a Saturday morning Parkrun 5k at a local event. This will provide all individuals with a goal to work towards.

Through the programme participants will gain motivation to attend the sessions, see an improvement in mental & physical wellbeing, all whilst participating alongside a group of other individuals working towards the same goal.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

Overall, the Couch to 5k programme will provide significant mental & physical benefits to participants, potential for lifelong participation in physical activity and social benefits through mixing with the other participants.

Amount requested: £1750

Badminton Festival

The Badminton Festival will be delivered in partnership with Ulster Badminton and the Ulster University Belfast Badminton Club. The club enables students and community members to learn about the sport and participate with like-minded people. Club members will work with Ulster Badminton staff to deliver an engaging sporting festival.

The badminton festival will bring together some of the leading coaches & players within the region to lead a range of different sessions. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in different badminton activities including; technical sessions, tactical development, footwork to music, match play, meet equipment providers and other health professionals. This range of activity will not only allow participants to gain a better understanding of the sport, whether they have never played before or have been playing for a long time, but it will also provide participants with the opportunity to gain a better understanding of how to lead a physically active and healthy lifestyle.

Clubs from across Belfast will be invited to be present at the festival. This will allow participants to find a club or session close to them. This should provide participants with information about badminton activity in the city of Belfast, as well as a friendly face to connect with at sessions when they attend.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

 Overall, the festival aims to provide participants with the opportunity to participate in badminton sessions, create links with local clubs and potentially obtain a sport for lifelong participation.

Amount requested: £1800

Little Sensory Movers

Wings of Hope (WOH), BT14 Parent Support Group is led and managed by volunteers and situated in North Belfast. We provide support and life enhancing services to help the children and young adults (and their families), affected by Autism/ADHD. This involves assisting them to achieve their maximum potential for community involvement, social inclusion, and the opportunity to access other facilities enjoyed by other non-Autistic members of the community. We are based in Grace Family Centre and currently have a membership of 41 parents and over 50 children.

We are all aware of the health message about the benefits of increasing physical activity levels, however during focus group discussion parents felt that the activities available locally did not meet the needs of the children. The main barriers noted regarding active participation in physical activities through the focus groups were, access, financial, transport and unsuitable activities etc. Income has an impact on people’s ability to access recreational facilities.

Access issues are also a barrier due to the lack of facilities locally. Transport, lack of public transport near facilities, people have to pay more to use a taxi. One parent stated, “my child cannot join the local swimming club because he would need one to one tuition, and I couldn’t afford that”.
 This is the reason why we need your help! You can help us overcome the barriers that prevent the children from becoming more physically active. Support us to provide new activities locally that meets the needs of the children

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

The Little Sensory Movers will benefit greatly from taking part in free regular physical activities in a local venue that enhances their cognitive function, academic performance, social skills, and emotional well-being 

Amount requested: £1500

Move to Improve 

The 'Move to Improve' Project is aimed at women aged 60+ who lack opportunities to be physically active in their communities. We want to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of women in Belfast through exercise for senior women's groups in North Belfast using exercise methods such as boccia, bowls, walking, aqua, chair aerobics and social dancing.

If successful we want to deliver six '10 week' programmes across North Belfast from April to June in local community centres, church halls, leisure centres and other venues. WISPA will provide these affordable and accessible opportunities for women to become more physically active and overall improve their wellbeing. All our classes will be delivered by fully qualified female instructors, and they will have an emphasis on enjoyment and socialising and building relationships. These sessions will allow the women to learn new skills, challenge themselves, connect with others and help reduce social isolation in local communities.

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

The ‘Move to Improve’ project is aimed at women aged 60+ to improve their mental and physical wellbeing. These sessions should improve the individual’s fitness, mobility, flexibility, strength and more. Mentally, these sessions should help improve sleep, mood and confidence and self-esteem. It also really important for our ageing population to remain a vital part of our community and socialise as much as possible to reduce isolation and prevent any unwanted ailments or health issues.

Amount requested: £2500

WISPA Summer Boot Camps 

We would love to deliver four Summer Boot Camps in West, North, South and East Belfast. We hope to attract women and girls (aged 18+) during the Summer months to move more in order to feel better!

If successful, in each area of the city we will deliver a six week boot camp with 2 sessions a week (12 sessions in total). We will provide a variety of times and days to suit everyone and the camps will be in community centres and leisure centres within the local community. Each session will be £1 per session which makes each boot camp not only accessible but affordable too.

Boot Camp classes are a great way to help improve your cardiovascular health and strengthen your muscles. These classes also require little/no equipment which means you don’t need anything special just yourself and maybe some water! The classes are made up of body weight exercises such as squats, star jumps, sprints, lunges and more. Everyone is a beginner therefore our classes are aimed at those starting their fitness journey and those who want to get fit with a group of likeminded women and have a bit of fun!

What difference will it make to the people of Belfast?

 We believe that taking part in an exercise class that is fun and enjoyable will be more sustainable and you will be more likely to continue this habit long term. Moving more is vital for our physical and mental wellbeing and our focus is on the women of Belfast. We want to encourage women to lead healthier lifestyles by providing accessible and affordable ways to participate in physical activity. We also want to use local council parks and leisure centres to show more women what is available in their own communities and how they can integrate more in their own areas. These boot camps will not only improve the physical and mental wellbeing of the women but also provide them with new skills and an opportunity to socialise and make new relationships.

Amount requested: £2496