On Friday 7th November 2025, Kilcooley Women’s Centre (KWC) hosted a Business Breakfast bringing together local councillors, representatives from the PSNI, and community stakeholders to discuss the pressing challenges facing the voluntary and community sector — and the opportunities that lie ahead.

This important event provided a platform for open conversation about the impact of short-term funding, increasing service pressures, and the need for greater collaboration between statutory bodies and community organisations.

Celebrating 30 Years of Impact

2025 marks a significant milestone — 30 years of Kilcooley Women’s Centre and Ladybirds Children’s Services. Over the decades, KWC has grown into one of the borough’s leading community organisations, supporting more than 1,500 people annually across 35 programmes and projects that span Bangor, Balloo, Kilcooley, and the Old Belfast Road.

New additions to the group — Gifted and The Old Market House — are now integral parts of KWC’s community engagement strategy, providing space for start-ups, freelancers, and local creatives to thrive. Together, the organisation now employs 30 staff and over 40 freelancers, sustaining a network that delivers essential services across all communities.

Tackling Inequality in Funding

During the session, attendees heard frank discussion about disparities in funding across Ards and North Down, where community groups like KWC continue to deliver frontline services despite facing one-year, last-minute funding cycles and delayed payments.

“We’re working at risk, managing late payments and over-verification, and seeing the real impact of burnout among staff,” explained  CEO Alison Blayney
“These are dedicated teams doing life-changing work — but we can’t plan effectively for the future without stability.”

The presentation also highlighted how short-term funding threatens the sustainability of four community sites, leaving vital services — including the borough’s only Children and Family Centre — under pressure.

Community Voice and Missed Opportunities

Preliminary findings from KWC’s Interim Community Audit revealed growing community apathy and frustration with current consultation processes. Many residents feel their voices are not being heard, with long-term projects stalling and millions of pounds in potential funding missed across past programmes including PEACE I–IV.

The discussion called for a renewed borough-wide vision — one that recognises the contribution of grassroots organisations and the value of local leadership.

A Call to Work Together

The event ended with a strong message — KWC cannot do this alone. Meaningful change requires council officers, elected members, and community partners to work collaboratively and ensure that life beyond the seafront is valued, supported, and included in future strategic plans.

“We’re not asking for special treatment — just fair recognition of our contribution and a seat at the table,” Tracy added.
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