Rathenraw runners-up in Pride of Place awards

Rathenraw Youth Scheme has been honoured at this year’s Pride of Place Awards, where they were announced as runner up in the Community Youth category.

Joined by fellow finalists, Dalaradia Cultural and Historical Society and The Ladies Shed, Antrim, the community groups were recognised for their outstanding dedication and service to the community at the awards ceremony held in Limerick over the weekend.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick commented, “Congratulations to Rathenraw Youth Scheme on being runners up in the Community Youth Category and to Dalaradia Cultural and Historical Society and The Ladies Shed, Antrim for being finalists in their categories too.

“I am delighted each of these groups are being recognised for the fantastic work and invaluable contribution they make to our Borough. The commitment and dedication that they show, makes a real difference to our communities – they should all be incredibly proud.”

Judges were impressed at how empowered the young people were at Rathenraw Youth Scheme, with the citation saying: “The judges were particularly impressed by the active leadership shown by the young people in organising and running the club, under the strong guidance of the adult leaders who have been involved in the club for decades.

“The judges were impressed with the commitment of all involved to providing support and opportunity for the young people who are living in an area which has experienced disadvantage over a number of decades.”

Rathenraw Youth Scheme aims to provide a safe place for young people to learn and have fun. Learning opportunities provided are based on assessment of need and include drugs/alcohol awareness, healthy choices, intergenerational work and working within the community.

The group also have access to a Health and Wellbeing Coach when needed by the young people, staff and parents. The group currently has 163 members of secondary school age and 237 members of primary school age.

Dalaradia Cultural and Historical Society manages the Whitehouse Museum and provide guided tours to locals and visitors from across the world.

The Ladies Shed, Antrim aims to tackle social isolation and loneliness by using a range of activities including arts, crafts and gardening. The Shed is a ‘Safe Place’ where members are able to share emotions, problems, hopes and dreams as well as learning new skills, rediscovering old skills and increasing knowledge and confidence.

With a current membership of 60 ladies, activities include knitting, crochet, sewing, pyrography, art, flower arranging and sign language.

Organised by peacebuilding charity Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance, the IPB Pride of Place Awards recognise and celebrate the very best in community development across the island of Ireland.