Category Ten – Housing Estates
Winner: Queens Park Estate, Glengormley, Co Antrim
Summary:
Queens Park Women’s Group established in 2010 has a remit to improve the quality of life for residents living in Queens Park Estate and the surrounding area. Queens Park is situated on the outskirts of Glengormley, Co. Antrim which in recent times has experienced some of the worst effects of community unrest, sectarian violence and anti-social behaviour. Since inception the group has engaged with the two most marginalised groups within the area, the older generation and the youth. The group delivers a range of social, cultural, educational and recreational activities on an annual basis. The Covid 19 Pandemic showed them that their work is essential, long lasting and has an impact on those helped. As a result of the Pandemic the group recognised the importance of adopting a flexible approach to meet local needs. Small changes lead to bigger changes. “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending”.
Community Contact: Kerry Brady
Citation:
The overarching group has a wide remit and distinguished itself during the travails of the pandemic. And now volunteers have continued their support in this diverse community. The judges were impressed with the huge impact of their work on so many individuals – and in particular the dramatic reduction of anti-social behaviour. A truly exemplary women’s group.
