Alison and Tracy were delighted to meet up with the Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly during a recent visit to the Houses of Parliament in London. This meeting offered us the opportunity to discuss our initiatives, share our achievements, and promote our mission of empowering women and families in our community.
A Warm Welcome
Using the opportunity for dialogue with the DFM , we were eager to share our journey, the challenges we’ve faced and are facing going forward, and the successes we’ve achieved through our various programs and initiatives.
Showcasing Our Work
We were highlighting key areas such as:
1. Educational Programs
- Adult Education: Courses aimed at improving literacy, numeracy, and vocational skills.
- Youth Programs: Initiatives designed to support young women in their educational journeys.
2. Support Services
- Physical and Mental Health and Wellbeing Support: Providing crucial mental health resources to those in need.
- Domestic Violence Support: Offering a safe space and resources for victims of domestic violence.
3. Community Development
- Social Enterprise Projects: Initiatives that create job opportunities and foster economic growth within the community.
- Community Events: Activities designed to bring people together and strengthen community bonds.
Discussing Challenges and Opportunities
We discussed some of the key challenges we face, such as funding constraints and the need for more comprehensive support services. The Deputy First Minister was attentive and responsive, acknowledging the importance of our work and the impact it has on the community.
We also explored opportunities for future collaboration and support from the government. Our discussion included potential strategies for securing additional funding, expanding our programs, and enhancing our reach to support even more women and families. It was agreed that childcare is a current challenge and we hope an announcement is immanent o n the work of the Taks and Finish Group on Childcare.
Commitment to Social Value
One of the highlights of our meeting was emphasizing our commitment to social value. We believe that every initiative and project we undertake should not only benefit individuals but also contribute to the overall well-being of the community. The Deputy First Minister commended our approach and expressed her support for promoting social value through policy and practice.
Looking Ahead
The meeting with Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly was a significant step forward for Kilcooley Women’s Centre. It reinforced our belief that collaboration between community organizations and government is essential for driving positive change. We are optimistic about the future and look forward to working closely with the Deputy First Minister and other stakeholders to continue making a difference. An invitation was extended to Emma to visit. our Social Enterprise Ladybirds in the summer.
Join Us on Our Journey
As we continue to grow and expand our impact, we invite you to join us on our journey. Whether you are a community member, a potential partner, or a supporter from afar, your involvement is invaluable. Together, we can empower more women, strengthen our community, and create lasting change.
For more information about our programs, initiatives, and how you can get involved, please visit our website or contact us on 028 91478292
Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for more updates on our work and future collaborations!