Derry & Strabane Council launches Good Relations Strategy and Action Plan
A new Good Relations Action Plan and strategy to promote a more inclusive Derry City and Strabane District has been launched by the local council.
The document sets out an ambitious vision to strengthen community relationships, celebrate diversity and create an area where everyone feels welcome and safe.
The three-year strategy has been developed following extensive engagement with residents, community and voluntary organisations, statutory partners, elected members, Council staff and young people to identify the key opportunities and challenges facing communities across the City and District.
The strategy outlines a series of practical initiatives designed to promote inclusion, encourage understanding, strengthen community connections and tackle issues such as racism, sectarianism, prejudice and hate crime.
The strategy focuses on four key themes – Children and Young People, Our Shared Community, Our Safe Community and Our Cultural Expression – with 14 programmes of work that will be delivered over the next three years. These include initiatives promoting cultural diversity, youth leadership, community integration, support for shared spaces, minority ethnic inclusion, traveller awareness and a series of events for Good Relations Week.
Mayor Grace Uí Niallais, said: “As our Council area continues to grow and evolve, it is more important than ever that we work together to build understanding, encourage respect and create opportunities for people from all backgrounds to connect.
“This strategy provides a clear framework for how we can continue that work over the next three years and through collaboration with our communities and partners, we will support initiatives that celebrate diversity and ensure everyone feels they belong.
“I would encourage everyone to read the document, get involved and help us continue building a district that is welcoming and respectful of all.”
Consultation findings highlighted the importance of supporting newcomer communities, tackling online hate and bullying, developing shared community spaces, building trust across communities and promoting positive cultural expression.
Karen McFarland, Director of Health and Community with Council added: “This strategy reflects how our communities have changed in recent years and responds to the issues people have told us matter most to them.
“It demonstrates our commitment to promoting equality, preventing discrimination and embedding Good Relations across everything we do."