Shantallow shows benefits of partnership working

Health Minister and Social Services Minister, Michael McGimpsey said that greater partnership working between government and the voluntary and community sectors was resulting in real benefits for local communities.

Speaking during a visit to the Shantallow Community Support Partnership, the Minister said the organisation had played a vital role in supporting the local population.

He said: “When the former Shantallow Family Centre and the Resource Centre Derry joined forces in 2001, the real winners were the local community. Both organisations had been serving the local population with a variety of services, such as childcare facilties, support for parents, day care for elderly people and work placements and training for young adults, to name but a few.

“When they established a formal partnership in 2001, they recognised that they could attract more funding in order to enhance and develop the services they provided to their community. The Partnership is based in the local area, and by working so closely with the local community knows exactly what their needs are and how best to address those needs.

“I have been very impressed by all the services and activities which are taking place here and would hope that more organisations would look to Shantallow and follow their exemplary lead.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The Shantallow Community Support Partnership organization is a partnership between the former Foyle Trust (now Western Trust), Shantallow Family Centre and the Resource Centre which is a local community/voluntary organization.
2. The organization now provides a range of services to the local community including: childcare services, playgroup, crèche, as well as parenting support to parents referred by social workers. There is also day care for older people, meals on wheels, a community shop and play group. In addition there is New Deal providing work placements and training for young adults and a welfare rights service.
3. Media enquiries to Richard Stewart at the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0571 or on 077932 21750. Out of hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.