Us and Them

The project has begun very successfully with the first peace building programme "Us and Them", a ten week programme which began at the Blackwater Valley Learning Centre on Wednesday 10th January, with twenty participants.  They will continue to meet each Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, until the 21st of March.  The programme facilitator, Maud Cunningham, has been delighted with the enthusiasm of the group, which has gathered people from both sides of the border and many strands of the community.  "Us and Them" provides a 'safe' environment for the group members to explore issues of identity in this part of Ireland, including sensitive issues of religion, nationality and political allegiance.  It is an accredited course - NIOCN Level 2 - so certificates will be awarded to those who complete the course.

Us and Them Too

The 2nd Programme "Us and Them Too" began on Tuesday 20th February (again 7.30pm to 9.30pm) and runs for 10 weeks, ending shortly after Easter.  "Us and Them Too" explores issues of diversity and equity by looking at the many social groupings that make up our society and how to tackle prejudice and discrimination against them.

Developing Facilitation Skills

Other programmes will follow.  Before Easter, we plan to begin a Training for Trainers programme, "Developing Facilitation Skills", which will run over six Saturdays (9.30am to 4.30pm).  Start date will be Saturday, March 28th, and the other five days will be April 14th, 21st, 28th, and May 5th and 26th.  This programme  is especially designed for those who work with groups, and who would like to develop their facilitation skills to continue such work in the future.  It is also an accredited course - NIOCN Level 3.