Connections - Summer/Autumn 2023

Creature Calendar Page 17

Get in touch

We are always looking at ways to make it easier for you to engage with us at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

We welcome your queries, comments and suggestions. You can contact us directly by telephone on 0300 124 5000

You can visit or write to us at any of the offices below:

Ballymena (Civic headquarters)

The Braid, 1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena BT43 5EJ

Ballymena – Ardeevin

Ardeevin, 80 Galgorm Road, Ballymena BT42 1AB Carrickfergus

Civic Centre, 11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus BT38 7DG Larne

Smiley Buildings, Victoria Road, Larne BT40 1RU

Keep up-to-date

You can keep up-to-date with us on social media. We use Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to share the latest news, events and information from Council.

MEA Borough Council

twitter.com/mea_bc instagram.com/meaboroughcouncil

If you have any comments on the magazine, please contact:

Alternative Formats

If you would like this publication in an alternative format such as large print, please contact us at communications@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 0300 124 5000. This magazine will also be printed in limited quantities and presented in our main Council offices, plus available to read online at www.issuu.com/meabc

A warm welcome to our latest edition of Connections, the magazine of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. Keeping our residents up to date on local developments and events is key – from raising awareness of climate and sustainability, booking activities from our events calendar or finding out what’s been happening in your local community; all help make Mid and East Antrim a great place to live, work and invest. So read on for details of:

Special Events, Exhibitions, Workshops, Talks, Music, Theatre, Tours, Dance, Words

MEA brings Creative Expression

Larne Arts has an exciting line up of events heading towards Autumn so be sure to check our website and social posts over the coming weeks.

Sharing Space – an exhibition by Fiona Rainey, will be on display in Larne Museum and Arts Centre during September. Featuring abstract landscapes inspired by the stunning Antrim Coast and coastal region of Donegal, this exhibition will stir the imagination as each piece explores areas of light immersed in abstractly depicted scenery.

Throughout October Larne welcomes local, national and international street artists for a special street art festival funded by Department for Communities (DfC). Following on from the success of last year’s street art event, over 21 artists will transform the under-pass pillars at Narrowguage Road, Larne. There will be plenty of family fun entertainment and workshops as part of the festival so look out for further details on Larne Museum and Arts Centre Facebook page and watch as more creative legacies take shape throughout the town.

A Huge Deal for Mid & East Antrim

What is the Belfast Region City Deal?

Belfast Regional City Deal (BRCD) is an investment programme of over £1billion which aims to support the creation of up to 20,000 jobs across the greater Belfast area. By connecting local people to new and better jobs this ambitious programme will directly deliver £400 million GVA on-site and within the region. BRCD’s ambitions for inclusive growth will be delivered across four pillars of investment:

Acclaimed singer song writer Anthony Toner will be performing at Larne Town Hall on Thursday 26 October. Celebrating the release of ‘Ghost Notes Vol 2’, Anthony will perform a brand-new collection of cover songs, rendered in his usual warm, intimate style.

Investing £80m across three flagship projects

Positioning

For further details visit midandeastantrim.gov.uk/business/ belfast-regional-city-deal

The Gobbins Phase 2 Larne £13m

i4C Innovation Centre Ballymena

Carrickfergus Regeneration Carrickfergus

Sharing and Supporting our Communities Addressing Climate and Sustainability in our borough

As part of our Community Development initiative, we’ve been working in partnership with local community groups and organisations in Carrickfergus and Larne to form Community Clusters. Aimed at supporting local communities to deliver community-based programmes, each cluster works across the areas to achieve joint projects and provide new opportunities for all.

Larne cluster was established in April 2022 with 20 local community groups sharing knowledge and resource to build community capacity. Ever growing, it serves almost 50 community groups from Larne Lough and Larne Coast areas, improving the lives of local residents.

Larne Member groups have developed a two-year action plan, already delivering projects such as:

• Training to equip 192 community group leaders and volunteers with expertise in first aid, safeguarding, use of defibrillators and food hygiene

• Provision of a funding information and training event to increase capacity

• Development of a community directory signposting locals to groups and support services in the Larne area.

Hosting arts and health and wellbeing workshops for residents, liaising with statutory bodies on local issues and a community information day are also part of the plan. So, if you’re part of a community organisation within the Larne area and interested in joining our local cluster, why not contact:

Wendy Carson, DEA Officer, Larne Lough

T: 07966 888131

E: wendy.carson@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Amanda Cotter, DEA Officer, Larne Coast Road

T: 07391 863492

E: amanda.cotter@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Community Clusters’ work in Carrickfergus and Greenisland began in 2022 with around 15 member groups and a few key events:

• A Volunteer Celebration event for those who volunteered over the Covid-19 pandemic

• Two workshops facilitated by Volunteer Now

• Visiting Bann Maine West Community Cluster, Cullybackey to gain working experiences from other clusters.

Carrickfergus and Greenisland are currently developing a three-year action plan through workshops encouraging participants to identify their community assets. The importance of collaboration, sharing information and working together form core elements of this plan and ideas are emerging for further development. So if you’re part of a community organisation within the Carrickfergus Castle or Knockagh District Electoral Areas we would encourage you join our local cluster by contacting:

Alison Kane, DEA Officer, Carrickfergus Castle

T: 07939 634403

E: alison.kane@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Fiona Surgenor, DEA Officer, Knockagh

T: 07880 432458

E: fiona.surgenor@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

We’ve recently launched our new Climate and Sustainability Action Plan – a five-year plan defining ways we can reduce the impact of climate change and deliver on commitments through our Climate and Sustainability Policy.

Guided by a range of legislation, this plan was developed in partnership with Sustainable NI. Illustrating the current and project impacts of climate change throughout the borough, we’ve looked at proposals to tackle these effects and meet the requirements within the Climate Change Act (NI) 2022.

Some of our aims include:

• Reduce by 30% Council operation emissions by 2030, aiming net zero by 2040

• Decarbonise small vehicles in Council fleets by 2030

• Support the borough to net zero by 2050

• Introduce climate resilience in Council buildings, public spaces and infrastructure

We have committed to a total of 97 actions, to be delivered over the next five years as part of six key themes:

• Good Governance and Community Leadership

• Our Environment

• Economy

• Transport

Our Commitment

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council will lead by example and work in partnership with local communities to develop a sustainable borough, safeguarding the future of our economy, society and environmental assets.

• Resource Management

• Buildings and Energy

The Plan also strives to influence and encourage the wider borough using climate education awareness and training, providing opportunities for grant funding plus supporting our local business sector through the development of clean tech and moving towards a low carbon, circular economy.

If you would like to find out more about climate change, view our new Climate and Sustainability Action Plan or ways to lower your carbon footprint, visit www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk

WHAT’S ON AUTUMN

What’s on in MEA

Carnegie: The Star-Spangled Scotchman

*Free event

Larne Museum & Arts Centre

Saturday 9 September 2pm-4.30pm

Part of European Heritage Open Days, Larne Museum will present a matinee screening of this musical, recorded at the 2019 performance at Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline. For booking contact 028 2826 2443 or marian.kelso@midandeastantrim. gov.uk

European Heritage Open Days

Saturday 9 September – Sunday 10 September

Celebrating local architecture, history and culture, this annual event gives access to explore some of the buildings in our borough which normally remain a hidden treasure. For more details visit www. communities-ni-gov.uk/europeanheritage-open-days

Reimagining the Islandmagee Witches: An Interactive Exhibition

Good Relations Week

18-24 September

This year’s theme is ‘Together’, following on from sustainability goals in 2022. The importance of making change happen and working together to share ideas and experiences, in tackling a wide range of social issues. Our programme of events can be accessed at www. midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Flash Harry: The Magic of Queen

Drama Circle will also present a reading of one of John’s plays on 5 October followed by Lolly Spence giving a talk on Friday 6 October. For further information contact 028 2826 2443.

Exploring your Roots Exhibition

Carrickfergus Museum

Saturday 9 September – Thursday 16 November

The Braid Arts Centre

Saturday 30 September 8pm

Tickets £24 (including booking fee)

Flash Harry deliver a rock show that will have you rocking in your seat, singing along to anthems from one of the greatest bands in history. Featuring classics from Radio Ga Ga, We are the Champions to Bohemian Rhapsody and Who Wants to Live Forever – this evening of rock will not disappoint! Recreating the magic of Queen for audiences young and old, Flash Harry are a band not to be missed.

Tickets available via 028 2563 5077 or thebraid.ticketsolve.com/shows

The Life and Work of John Clifford

Larne Museum & Arts Centre

Mid-Antrim Museum Service

7 October 2023 – 17 January 2024

Explore the fascinating collections of archival records, everyday objects and photographs. Discover how museums bring to life the world of our ancestors. This exhibition has been designed to offer a flavour of the diverse collections held within the Mid and East Antrim Museum and Heritage Service.

Halloween Events

028 2563 5077

Tickets from The Braid Box Office and online thebraid.ticketsolve.com/shows

This exciting new exhibition will be the launch platform for a range of interpretive experiences developed by a multi-disciplinary team at Ulster University. These include a virtual reality experience, animation, graphic novel and choice-driven video game.

Monday 9 October – Thursday 23

November

A launch event on Saturday 7

October marks the opening of this exhibition on John Clifford. Forty years on from his passing, Larne

Don’t forget that Autumn welcomes pumpkin season and of course Halloween, attracting some ghostly outdoor happenings throughout our borough. Further details to be released so keep updated via our website and social media channels.

Get your greens locally grown! Making Sense of Science

An exciting new community initiative in Carrickfergus is set to embrace the circular economy, reduce plastic waste and bring a greengrocer outlet back to the town centre for the first time in many years.

The first if its kind in the borough, Carrick Greengrocers is a new fruit and vegetable shop with a difference! Working with local farmers, it showcases produce from the local area as well as across Northern Ireland. The business is run as a co-operative, largely staffed by volunteers, with profits going back into the shop for the good of the local community.

Positive Carrickfergus, the group behind the new venture is offering people the chance to get involved in a variety of ways, from volunteering in the shop, to owning a part of it through community shares.

Being entirely community owned, all profits are directed back into the business, plus into other local initiatives which benefits the Carrickfergus community. It is located in a vacant property on North Street, which has benefited from the Townscape Heritage Initiative lottery fund, this fruit and veg shop is definitely worth a visit. Carrick Greengrocers having

Council support through Sparkthe early business development mentoring programme, Carrick Greengrocers is focused on establishing the business as a Community Interest Company. Once established, the company was then eligible to avail of funding support through the Council’s Explore Social Seed Fund to establish the brand and develop the company website.

For further details on Carrick Greengrocers please email: carrickgrocers@gmail.com or visit www.carrickgreengrocers.org

For more information on Council support and other programmes contact: E: amplify@midandeastantrim. gov.uk

T: 028 2563 3363

Want to explore first-hand the world of STEAM? Then grab the opportunity with your school to come along and hear TED-style talks by leading scientists, participate in practical workshops and meet with equally enthusiastic students and teachers from other schools.

Hosted by Professor Brian Cox, this is the second time Science Summer School has come to Northern Ireland. Participating is FREE and each place is limited to 22 pupils plus 3 teachers per school. Not one to be missed, there are just 25 places on a first come first served basis so register your interest and reserve tickets before Friday 01 December 2023. This prestigious science event takes place on Tuesday 23 January 2024 at The Braid, 1-29 Bridge Street Ballymena BT43 5EJ between 10am and 3pm

For further details on registration contact Christine Barnhill Christine.Barnhill@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Activate Your Curiosity!

We are working with Armagh Observatory and Planetarium to bring the wonders of the solar system direct to your school with their brand-new ‘Cosmic Classroom’ offering an out of this world adventure from the comfort of your classroom!

Students will learn how to navigate the night sky and travel to their favourite planets all from the comfort of the classroom. They can test their knowledge with our quick-thinking quiz and get the chance to ask our experts what they have always wanted to know about space!

What do I need to do?

We are asking you to show us what you know about climate change by illustrating a superpower that could help protect our planet!

This ‘superpower’ could include illustrations of who or what has inspired you to help protect the planet. Examples of superpowers include recycling, turning off lights/electrical items, litter picking, walking instead of driving, making fun recipes with leftovers, regifting toys to your friends/family, doing a clothes swap etc.

What can I win?

Two lucky winners (one from Key Stage 1, one from Key Stage 2) will win a Cosmic Classroom session for their class. The winning posters will also be on show at The Braid, Ballymena and achieve borough-wide acclaim through a local press release! We will also invite representatives from the class to meet the Mayor, to explain the detail behind their superpower design!

How do I enter?

1. The competition is open to pupils in KS1 and KS2 classes in the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Area.

2. Each school should send the entry forms with the detailed sketch together to: amplify@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or post to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Christine Barnhill, Silverwood Business Park, 190 Raceview Road, Ballymena, BT42 4HY

3. Closing date for entries is 12 Noon on Friday 17 November 2023. Winners will be notified by 1 December 2023.

‘Ocean Superheroes’ settle in Glenarm Marina

Ostrea edulis known as the native oyster was once abundant in our seas but today, it’s estimated oyster reef populations have diminished to just 5% over the last 200 years. Part of a restoration initiative led by Ulster Wildlife, native oysters have once again returned to Glenarm coast with the creation of a new oyster nursery at Glenarm marina. Funded by DAERA Blue Carbon Fund and supported by Wilson Resources, this exciting biodiversity scheme will bring a range of ecosystems to our coastline.

One of our Famous Five

Alongside our breathtaking Causeway Coastal Route; spectacular Gobbins; majestic Slemish Mountain and authentic Presidential Homesteads, Mid and East Antrim lays claim to having the best-preserved Norman Castle open to the public in Ireland. Offering a real glimpse into how people once lived, loved and defended their land, Carrickfergus Castle will not disappoint.

You can visit the castle all year long by purchasing our great value annual ticket at reception.

Adult £6

Annual Ticket £12

Concession (Senior/student) £9

Child £4

Annual Ticket £8

Family (up to 5 people, up to 3 adults) £18

Annual Ticket £36

The plan: Around 800 mature oysters have been suspended over the edge of the marina’s pontoons in 30 custom-made cages. The purpose is for reproduction - releasing the next generation of oysters onto the seabed to form oyster reefs.

Benefits to nature: Hailed as ‘Ocean superheroes’ these oyster reefs provide an important habitat for many fish and other marine creatures and help clean our coastal waters.

“Despite their small size and insignificant appearance, oysters can bring huge benefits to our marine environment. Already, they have started to filter and clean 162,000 litres of seawater at Glenarm per day, equivalent to 810 bathtubs.”

Oyster volunteering: If you’re interested in being involved in this revitalisation, Ulster Wildlife is looking volunteers to make regular health checks on growth rates and wildlife surveys so why not email info@ulsterwildlife.org to find out more.

“This is a win-win for nature: restoring oysters creates healthier and more resilient seas and their reefs store carbon – crucial if we are to tackle the nature and climate crisis.”

Dr David Smyth, Senior Conservation Officer with Ulster Wildlife

Terms and conditions apply and for details of opening times, visit www.shapedbyseaandstone.com

Becoming the early bird

Experience the thrill of this cliff-edge walk as you embrace nature and the elements with Irish Sea winds, squawking native sea birds and salty air. Marvel as you traverse another engineered bridge – there’s 23 in total, you may even catch sight of some seals, dolphins or porpoise that hunt in these waters.

This extraordinary place is only accessible on a guided tour so secure an early booking to avoid disappointment at www.thegobbinscliffpath.com

Caring for our planet Food for thought

greenhouse gases and is the cause of around 10% global warming.

How can we help ease this climate crisis? If you care about the planet, biodiversity or just want to see more trees in the area you live, then you can help Mid and East Antrim Borough Council alongside the Woodland Trust change this. Just one small step to support nature - why not come along to one of our many school and community days and plant trees, even a single tree in memory to a loved one or just to show future generations?

Did you know that tree cover in Ireland sits at just 11.4%?

Our forests began being cleared for farming back in Neolithic times; this purposeful clearing of forested land has continued until modern times where today, we sit bottom second in Europe for green canopies coverage.

Have you heard that globally up to 15 billion trees are now being cut down every year?

Forests are vital for the world we live in, providing food and shelter for so much life. Densely populated woodland can influence rainfall patterns and soil quality plus trees absorb and store carbon dioxide. Cutting down vast amounts of trees releases damaging

We will also be walking and talking the woodlands around the borough to help people revitalize connections with trees through informative and fun sessions suitable for all the family. If you would like to arrange a walk and talk around your local woodland or more information on planting sessions near you then email Trees@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

It was said that a red squirrel could travel from one tip of Ireland to the other without having to set foot on the ground. Help us reconnect these fragmented woodlands not only for squirrels but for you and those yet to come.

Schools are growing their own food

This programme of 4 sessions aims to help the school create or improve their growing area, build structures such as raised beds, bird boxes and sweat pea structures and finally plan, sow, tend and harvest a range of fruit and vegetables. Children also learn about re-using and recycling while making paper pots and creating planters and bird feeders from recycled milk bottles.

During one session, dedicated to foraging, children learnt about edible trees, flowers and other plants. Each school also received a useful Schools Growing Club Starter Kit including tools, compost and seeds. After the Growing Club sessions are finished, the schools are encouraged to continue putting their newly acquired knowledge into practice and work on growing, tending and harvesting in their school gardens.

Look out for the Growing Club applications for 2024 on our website, which will open in early 2024.

Mid and East Antrim Sustainable Food Partnership is a new initiative aimed at connecting across all sectors of the food system. Representatives from public sector bodies, third party sector representatives, local businesses, academic institutions, farmers, community groups along with Council officers are channelling a whole systems approach to bring together the different levels. As Partnership co-ordinator we are committed to working across all aspects of the food system, to solve some of today’s most pressing social, environmental and economic issues on a local basis.

Chairperson William Millar and Vice Chair Portia Woods have stepped into their roles to help drive this partnership forward towards Mid and East Antim Borough being recognised at bronze level. The Partnership has successfully delivered a number of projects so far, including:

• Creating vibrancy by recognising Slemish Garden Market for winning UK Greengrocers of the year

• Plot to Plate initiative gives residents access to a council-led program incorporating food, physical exercise and eduction.

• Jubilee Farm, first owed community farm in Glenoe, is hosting a SFP meeting

• Tullygarley Allotments acting like a holding system

• Carrickfergus Academy piloting a cross circular growing movement working with horticulture, school canteen and pupils.

Current figures across MEA four community fridges: -

• 712 Ton of CO2 emissions saved

• 223 Ton of Food collected from retailers

• 598,000 Meals distributed.

For further information or if interested in joining the partnership, please contact:

Carly.ogilvie@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Portglenone Primary Ballymena, Woodlawn Primary Carrickfergus and Larne & Inver Primary were chosen to receive the Schools Growing Club Programme this year.

Sunflower Savvy

30 September deadline for entries

Get to know your local wildlife

How tall can you grow a sunflower? This year’s challenge is still to be contested following delivery of 5000 free packets of sunflower seeds to local schools throughout the borough. Pupils have been encouraged to get the growing bug, plant the seeds and nurture growth of these striking tall flowers.

To enter our sunflower competition or find out more about Mid & East Antrim in Bloom please visit: www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/inbloom or email inbloom@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Taking Education Outdoors

Forest Schools Programme promotes outdoor learning and green spaces in the borough and three of our local schools have been selected to take part in this year’s initiative.

• Clough Primary School, Ballymena – using open space near the play park and MUGA

• St Macnissi’s Primary School, Larne – making use of the green space at Smiley Park

• Greengables Pre-school, Carrickfergus – learning and playing at Shaftesbury Park.

Aimed at promoting sustainable outdoor education, Forest Schools programme inspires innovative teaching methods to encourage curiosity and exploration. Young people can benefit from confidence building, physical skills, social skills, motivation and concentration and boost mental health.

The benefits of Forest Schools are far reaching not only for the pupils and teachers directly involved but also families, school and local community. Regular, ongoing and sustained use of Council parks and open spaces, through fun and educational activities, can help develop a sense of ownership through civic and environmental awareness.

Applications will open again at the end of 2023.

For more information, please visit www.forestschoolsni.com or email parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

August

Highlighting our borough’s wonderful wildlife through this Creature Calendar. Each month, you can find out about different animals that are indigenous to the area, with tips on how you can help them thrive. To see the calendar click on www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/things-to-do/parks/biodiversity

How tall can you grow a sunflower? This year’s challenge is still to be contested following delivery of 5000 free packets of sunflower seeds to local schools throughout the borough. Pupils have been encouraged to get the growing bug, plant the seeds and nurture growth of these striking tall flowers.

To enter our sunflower competition or find out more about Mid & East Antrim in Bloom www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/inbloom inbloom@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

August – Bat

Did you know there are over 1,300 types of bat in the world but only 8 bat species are native to Northern Ireland? All of our bats are small, shy, harmless mammals. The smallest, the pipistrelle, weighs as little as a 2p coin and is known to gobble up more than 500 insects in an hour!

The best time to see bats is at dusk on warm and dry summer evenings. International Bat Night occurs on the last Saturday in August each year and is a great opportunity to get out and look for these fascinating mammals.

Some great places to see bats are Ecos Nature Park, Galgorm Wood and Bashfordsland Wood & Oakfield Glen. For more information you can visit The Northern Ireland Bat Group www.bats-ni.org.uk

September

September – Red squirrel

The red squirrel is one of our most iconic mammals immortalised as ‘squirrel nutkin’ by Beatrix Potter. Red squirrels play an important role in regenerating woodlands as they bury nuts and seeds which grow into future trees that sustain a host of native woodland dwellers such as pine martens and jays. The red squirrel is believed to have been present in Ireland since the end of the last Ice Age but unfortunately they are currently in decline. Red squirrels were recently reintroduced to Carnfunnock Country Park and are also present at Straidkilly Nature Reserve in Glenarm. Autumn is the best time to see them as there are fewer leaves on the trees, making them easier to spot as they gather food ahead of the winter.

October - Tufted duck

Tufted Duck

This comical little duck lives up to its name – look out for the black tuft of feathers on its head! Rocking an incredible hairdo, this is our most common diving duck nesting on flooded gravel pits, lakes and reservoirs. Tufted ducks feed on waterweed, plant seeds and water insects. Like most ducks, the ‘drake’ (male) has nothing to do with the incubation of the eggs or raising the young. The ‘hen’ (female) has eight to eleven eggs in a brood; the young becoming independent once their true feathers have fledged. In winter, you will find larger numbers of tufted ducks, as many arrive from Northern Europe to spend the winter in Northern Ireland. To see these funny birds in action, visit ponds and lakes in the Borough, such as Carrickfergus Mill Ponds or the lake in People’s Park, Ballymena. One of the main threats to the population of these birds is pollution. You can help by making sure your waste is properly disposed of and recycled and doesn’t end up in our lakes, rivers and oceans.

October

Coming Soon! Positive Ageing Month

The Disability Action Plan 20232027 demonstrates Council’s commitment to the promotion of equality of opportunity for disabled people. This plan aims to fulfil actionable measures within 3 key themes, designed to:

1. Promote Accessibility

2. Encourage participation in Public, Political & Civic Life

3. Facilitate Economic & Community Development Initiatives

have one or more residents living with a disability and so alongside partnering organisations, we are excited to implement the Disability Action Plan for 2023-2027. Identifying needs and shaping this plan will focus our efforts on making a real difference for people living with a disability in our borough.

of the packed programme happening throughout October, why not visit our website for further details.

Friday 13 October, 2pm-4pm Carrickfergus Community Forum Tea Dance

Jubilee Hall, Carrickfergus Town Hall

advice. For more details contact 028 2565 8604 or at connectnorth.MEA@meaap.co.uk

Wednesday 25 October 10am-12noon

MEAAP ScamAwareness Pop Up Market Yard, Woodside Road, Ballymena

We are in the final furlong of our borough’s Disability Action Plan for 2023-2027, set for release later this year. Thanks to all those who contributed to the recent consultation – your response was meaningful and gladly received.

To enable equality of opportunity for disabled people and their right to have access and participation in the different aspects of public life. According to the 2021 census nearly half of households (45%) within Mid and East Antrim Borough

Look out for the launch of our Disability Action Plan 2023-2027, Equality Scheme with appended Equality Action Plan 2023-2027 at midandeastantrim.gov.uk plus our annual progress report to the Equality Commission.

This October brings Positive Ageing Month (PAM) to our borough, aimed at celebrating the contribution older people bring to local communities. In association with Northern Health and Social Care Trust, Public Health Agency and our resident Agewell Partnership, we have organised a jam-packed calendar covering a variety of events for Mid and East Antrim’s 50+ and their family and carers. Giving you a little snapshot

This event is free. Booking essential via 028 9335 9777 or email carrickcommunity@btconnect.com

3-4pm Virtual Tea Dance

Access this free event via seniorsinfo@belfastcity.gov.uk

Wednesday 18 October 10am-1pm MEA Agewell Partnership Health Fair

Larne Market Yard

Drop in for a health check and

Stop by and chat to our team, find out more about scams circulating and how to keep yourself safe.

If you would like a copy of our calendar for PAM October, you can contact us at age.friendly@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Look out for the launch of our Disability Action Plan 2023-2027, Equality Scheme with appended Equality Action Plan 2023-2027 at midandeastantrim.gov.uk plus our annual progress report to the Equality Commission.

Mayor’s

Local Charities are chosen

This year’s Mayor Alderman Gerardine Mulvenna was appointed in June 2023, alongside her Deputy Mayor Alderman Stewart McDonald. Deeply passionate about our communities and the important role volunteers play, Alderman Mulvenna has nominated two charities as her Mayoral charities – Women’s Aid ABCLN and ‘This is Me’ Dementia Friendly Choir.

Women’s Aid ABCLN provides confidential support, information and emergency accommodation for women and children affected by domestic abuse across Antrim, Ballymena, Carrickfergus, Larne and

Newtownabbey. The charity also provides support for children and young people affected by domestic abuse and works with communities and partner organisations to increase awareness and a better understanding.

‘This is Me’ Dementia Friendly Choir began in 2018 - part of a vision from Alderman Mulvenna to provide a service for people living with dementia within the Larne area. The choir offers a safe and welcoming space to come together and connect, using the power and joy of singing and music to help improve brain activity and increase wellbeing.

A hopeful year for Macmillan’s Move More Programme in Mid and East Antrim!

Supporting those who have had a cancer diagnosis to get active and stay active, this initiative aims to reassure physical activity is safe during and after most types of cancer treatment and can help reduce side effects and prevent occurrence of other long-term conditions.

To donate please go to www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/ council/mayors-office/ mayors-charity/donate

The Move More Group is well established within all three of our leisure centres, where service users can access circuit classes, gym sessions, walking groups and stretch and tone classes. We also try

and do as much as we can outside the centres – from experiencing The Gobbins, walking for World Cancer Day and even participating in October’s Night Shine walk.

Fundraising plays an important part in our activities and once again we are hosting a Macmillan Coffee morning at Larne Leisure Centre on 29 September from 10am-1pm.

Our programme participants have developed such incredible camaraderie and friendship. Aside from being active, people talk about

anything and everything, and more often than not, cancer isn’t on the agenda, but everyone knows that it’s a safe space if they need it.

To find out more about the Macmillan Move More programme in the Mid and East Antrim area, call Paula on 07939 634 434 or email paula.mcauley@midandeastantrim. gov.uk

see you, we care.

Supporting people affected by Dementia

Find out more: midandeastantrim.gov.uk/Dementia

We

It’s like magic; it makes your friends & family disappear

Tommy, 80