Ballynafeigh, Belfast

Learning moments

The role of education
There are integrated primary and secondary schools in Ballynafeigh, with attendees from the area and further afield. Most children attend state schools and Ballynafeigh is particularly proud of the fact that their denominational schools actively encourage diversity, with many parents considering the first criteria of entry whether free school meals are provided or not.

An active and engaged community
The number of grassroots and community groups in the area is startling. With all groups being autonomous and most being registered charities, they are accountable to the community. Many other communities look to Ballynafeigh as a good example of how to promote social cohesion and inclusivity.

A post-conflict community
Ballynafeigh think of themselves as a ‘post violent conflict community’ Great care is being taken to preserve how people have chosen to live and the Ballynafeigh community chooses to tell a story filled with hope and positivity about their neighbourhood. This raised the question over whether the community could use their expertise to help post-conflict zones elsewhere in the world - could they export hope and ‘path to peace’ advice on the basis that it has been done here?

A broad church
The work of the Clergy Fellowship and local churches plays an important part in creating safe and welcoming spaces for the neighbourhood. Church buildings are available for community activities for 6 days of the week and participate in ‘Our Cosy Places’ - a coordinated approach to providing warm places for people to gather throughout the week. Community meals are held on Thursday evenings, with a mix of young and old attending. At the Methodist Church, there are plans for outdoor food carts, where refugees might start food-related businesses, and plans for creation of an alcohol-free pub / performing arts venue, with the aim of attracting the wider community into the building.

Read full assessment report