Urban Villages Focus Magazine ISSUE 9

WEST BELFAST Colin

Building Confidence and Connections - Ionad na Fuiseoige

Repurposing: We fold old books and make them into beautiful gifts for Mother’s Day, birthdays and other occasions. Quilling is the latest craze; this simple craft of rolling paper has transformed handmade greetings cards and other items. It’s about getting people out of the house, socialising, engaging, talking. Often these are women who are alone can be on high doses of medication. The classes have helped some to reduce medication, and once they take a starter class to get them out of the house and involved, they will often get interested in other classes. This capacity building programme reaches women with little or no social contact. The programme is tackling isolation by giving women the opportunity to learn new skills, to connect with other women, building confidence, feeling valued and better able to cope with life’s challenges.

As part of a number of confidence building and

There is something for everyone. Call in and have a look and maybe try your hand. You will definitely surprise yourself. “I can’t believe I have a wee blanket out of all her first-born clothes. It’s amazing and I did it myself.”

practical skills activities including sewing, crafts and art; groups at Ionad na Fuiseoige have worked to produce artwork, which are now proudly displayed at home and in the centre. Some of the budding artists had never held a paint brush before they joined our group, and now their work is truly amazing. Groups come together to learn new skills with a qualified involves having a cup of tea and a chat, and many new friendships have blossomed. What else do we do? Upcycling: Fewer clothes are being thrown out since our sewing group are now proficient in patching, clothes have become beautiful baby blankets, quilts for the cold winter nights and picnic blankets for summer days. tutor to support them. Getting together always hemming and sewing on buttons. Outgrown baby

“The dark nights aren’t so bad now that I can pass my time folding books. Everybody

thinks I’m great. I can do things now that nobody else I know can do.”

“I hated school and was no good at anything. I’m not great at art but I love the company and the tea break. I love going to the group and having friends there.” “I go to activities 5 days a week. It is great me time and then I go home and sort out the family.”

Urban Villages Initiative | Focus Magazine Issue 9