Winner: Armagh Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership
Armagh Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership has delivered significant improvements in the quality of life for communities across West Armagh over the past 10 years. Primary schools report a growth in high key stage results as a consequence of supplementary literacy and numeracy supports; pride in the area has risen due to creative reimaging projects in dilapidated areas; dedicated resource centres provide hubs for generating community development initiatives and engagement with young people; employment prospects for early school leavers and young adults have broadened considerably following completion of certified training in caring services, oil refinery technology, driving skills, and heritage skills.
Delivery of the programme hinged on the dedication of the four area community associations. Their willingness to work in partnership with statutory agencies, reconciling the objectives of the Neighbourhood Renewal Programme with the vision of residents, has culminated in real and measureable changes for the better, and a lasting framework for driving forward future initiatives.
Judges’ Citation
Since inception 10 years ago the Partnership has delivered a number of significant improvements in the quality of life for communities across West Armagh spanning areas of education, health, community, physical, and economic renewal. Primary schools report a growth in high key stage results; pride in the area has risen among residents; dedicated resource centres provide essential hubs for generating community development initiatives; and employment prospects of early school leavers have broadened considerably. These are tremendous outcomes in a highly deprived area. There is a lasting framework for driving forward future initiatives. This project if replicated would be very successful elsewhere.