Belfast Met leads project to improve lives of marginalised young people

by Gráinne Connolly

Belfast Metropolitan College is leading on a major EU funded project, aimed at helping and providing opportunities for the most marginalised young people in society.

'Futures' will work with approximately 800 local young people aged 16-24 who are at risk of becoming excluded from educational or economic opportunities.

The scheme is running in partnership with Start 360, Northern Ireland Housing Executive and Southern Regional College will contribute to young people's personal and social development; helping them to gain new skills and to become more aware of diversity and good relations in Northern Ireland so they can take up active citizenship roles in their local communities.

'Futures' is one of 11 projects working directly with children and young people managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.

The PEACE IV Programme has a value of €270 million (£239 million) and aims to promote peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland and the Border Region of Ireland. It is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

Damian Duffy, Director of Development in Belfast Metropolitan College said:

“We are delighted to be leading the Futures Project which reflects the College’s strategy of contributing to a thriving economy while supporting the active inclusion of young people who face particular challenges or require additional support. 

"Futures will ensure that participating young people develop their potential and access opportunities to contribute to the continued economic success and social wellbeing of the city and wider region.”

Start 360's CEO Anne-Marie McClure said:

“Our proven model of interventions, based on years of experience delivering GRIT and other youth work services, will support the young people through their journeys and ensure each one of them leaves us stronger. We know working together works, for the benefit of our young people and their communities.”

NI Housing Executive is working with Futures to reach young people embedded in local communities and providing opportunities for them to get involved in community initiatives and social enterprises.

Clark Bailie, Housing Executive Chief Executive said:

“As a landlord of over 85,000 homes, we’re about more than just bricks and mortar and we pride ourselves in helping to build stronger communities.

"We’re excited to be involved in assisting young people to build their personal development, helping them to get new qualifications, develop new skills and become more involved in our local community.”

Gina McIntyre, CEO of the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) said:

“This type of support is vital to develop our young citizens and create a more vibrant and forward looking society for the future. The children and young people participating in the project will gain the skills they need to positively transform not only their own lives, but also the different communities which they come from.”