Urban Villages - Focus Magazine {Issue 11)

Page 30

News

The Urban Villages Initiative is supporting the development of a sensory garden in North Belfast that will give the community a space to be proud of. The new sensory Garden at Interface location transformed into Sensory Garden also those who just need five minutes of down time to stop and reflect on their day. There is a culture of social isolation locally, where barriers between residents The garden will bring activity into the public area, transforming a derelict, underused and contentious space into a community facility that can be enjoyed by all sections of the local community.

are commonplace. The sensory garden will give the community a space which is accessible, social and safe, contributing to a greater sense of belonging

NBWISP* will aid healing for local members of the

Alex Crossley, NBWISP Co-ordinator said; “The area in which we are developing the sensory garden is situated against a 60ft peace wall and had been derelict for over 12 years, it had become a dumping ground and was very unattractive. ‘Through participation in the garden, people will start talking to one another. As the plants grow, so will friendships, often forged across cultural barriers, challenging stereotypes and an historical suspicion of strangers.” NBWISP* North Belfast Womens Initiative & Support Project For more information Email: info@nbwisp.com Telephone: 028 9039 1028 or find us on Facebook .

community, not only for those who need support with their physical and mental health, but

and a place where new friendships can be made.

Keep in touch

Stay updated with what’s happening in your Urban Village area. Focus Magazine - Next issue – Autumn 2021. If you have any local community stories or events that you would like included, just let us know. Ezines - Ezines will keep you updated throughout the year on what’s happening in your Urban Village area and beyond.

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Urban Villages Initiative | Focus Magazine Issue 11