Glens Healthy Places Programme: Empowering Rural Communities Through Place-Based Health Initiatives
QCAP attended the celebration event for the Glens Healthy Places Programme and presented the findings of their evaluation work at Limepark in Armoy.
QCAP Deputy Director, Dr Andrew Grounds highlighted the learning and impacts of the 2-year programme, which was funded by the Department of Health through the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland. The programme was delivered in partnership with:
- Northern Area Community Network
- Fresh Minds Education
- Community Places
- PB Works
- Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council
- Northern Health and Social Care Trust
The evaluation report was produced in collaboration with Prof. Brendan Murtagh and provided insights into the four elements of the programme:
- Glens Men
- Community Listeners
- Participatory Budgeting
- Mental Health in primary schools
These elements reinforced the value of preventative community-based health models, particularly given the demand for existing statutory and mainstream services. The project also showcased the relevance of place-based approaches and how they can be tailored to create positive outcomes for rural and sometimes more isolated communities across the Glens. The full report can be downloaded here.
Community members who participated in the programme shared their experiences at the event, providing further valuable insights. QCAP was delighted to play a part in this event and support this impactful place-based initiative.
