Ballyhoura Development CLG is pleased to announce that it has been awarded €142,500 under the Department of Justice’s Community Safety Fund 2025 to pilot an innovative Social Safety Approach in Charleville.
Inspired by a pioneering model in Heerlen, the Netherlands, and tailored for the Irish context, the in-itiative will be delivered in the northside estates of Charleville. It aims to strengthen safety, well- being, and liveability within the local community by ensuring trained staff are visible, accessible, and actively supporting residents on the ground.
The pilot will be implemented in partnership with Cork County Council and Respond through the existing Battview Matters Community and Family Support Project. Working closely with key statutory and community partners including An Garda Síochána, Tusla, the HSE, and local schools, the project will promote early intervention, prevention, and cross-agency collaboration.
At the heart of the initiative is a people-centred approach focused on trust-building, local engagement, and responsive support. Activities will include home visits, community forums, and the co-creation of Community Social Safety Plans that reflect the priorities and lived experiences of residents.
“We are delighted to receive this support from the Department of Justice,” said Eileen O’Keeffe, Develop- ment Manager at Ballyhoura Development. “This funding enables us to test a new way of working that prioritises partnership, prevention, and community voice. We look forward to seeing how this pilot can influence wider community safety practice across Ireland.”
The pilot will run throughout 2025 and, if successful, has the potential to shape future policy and practice in community safety and wellbeing at a national level.
For more information about Ballyhoura Development and its ongoing work, visit www.ballyhouradevelopment.com