As they celebrate this significant milestone, we met with the team to reflect on the charity’s 20 years and what the future holds.
From community educational initiatives to health-related courses and activities, West Bann Development is committed to supporting their local community become more resilient and sustainable. Additionally, the organisation provides vital support services for older and vulnerable individuals, along with various Early Years programmes.
Partnership working is key
Partnership lies at the core of West Bann Development's ethos, as evidenced by its collaboration with Northern Regional College (NRC) to deliver a range of essential skills, IT and accountancy training for the local community.
The organisation offers a Good Morning Causeway service delivered by a team of dedicated volunteers recruited in partnership with the local Volunteer Centre. The volunteers make around 190 outreach calls a day, offering a lifeline for older and vulnerable people in the community who are then encouraged to engage in other activities within the Centre. This model has been a great success providing much needed connections for older people in the area who regularly come together for coffee mornings.
Currently West Bann Development as developing a programme with a local primary school, which aims to improve understanding and access to policy-makers within Northern Ireland.
In 2024, West Bann Development is looking to build on this partnership approach which has been a cornerstone to the organisation, as well as determine new and innovative ways to make it sustainable.
For the staff at West Bann Development, their Centre is more than just a physical space— it's a hub for community engagement. From early childhood education to essential skills through to support for older people, the centre offers a diverse array of services and community connections.
West Bann Development has been making a difference for 20 years and as they seek to redevelop their strategic plan, invest in new partnerships and new innovations, they look forward to serving the community for another 20 years and beyond.
How can people support West Bann Development?
Become a volunteer
Volunteers are always needed to support the Good Morning Causeway Programme. As a volunteer you will provide a critical check-in and connection service for older people within the Coleraine and surrounding areas.
Join the board
West Bann Development are also on the lookout for individuals who would be interested in joining the board, and will strategically steer the organisation as they look to the future.
If you think you would be a match for either of these opportunities, please reach out directly to West Bann Development at: [email protected]
Check out their range of training courses and exercise classes
If you live in Coleraine or the surrounding area, West Bann Development have a range of accredited courses that could benefit you, as well as fun exercise classes.
So, check them out and see if they could help improve your mind or body.
Why is West Bann Development a Member of NICVA?
“We are glad to be members of NICVA as we see it as the parent of the community and voluntary sector. Too often, we are viewed as the poor relation. We value all the work NICVA does to promote and influence Government for our benefit”.
(Angela Mulholland, Manager, West Bann Development)
The key areas in which West Bann Development has benefited from being a member of NICVA includes:
- Receiving regular updates - Member Bulletin, Assembly inside from NICVA CEO
- Practical support and advice
- Training
NICVA wishes to Congratulate West Bann Development on reaching this milestone of twenty years’ service to the community. We thank them for being members of NICVA and it is our pleasure to showcase their work. #ValueoftheSector
