The Education division has introduced a Community Engagement Initiative for all branches within the division. The initiative asks branches to consider supporting activities within local communities to increase the level of engagement between the union and local community groups. 

Head of division Andy Pike said: “We know members are interested in becoming more involved in union activities, and supporting community initiatives will provide members with a perfect opportunity to become more active, while supporting worthy local causes.” 

The North Dublin North Leinster (NDNL) SNA branch has approached this initiative by agreeing an annual budget from branch funds and issuing an application form to members, seeking expressions of interest for support or funding. The principle is that members of the branch can seek financial support for Fórsa merchandise, campaign support, neurodiversity training, networking opportunities or funding for community work that their members are actively involved in. 

Branch equality officer Carol McSherry said: “We’re planning to purchase six defibrillators – one for each county represented by the NDNL branch. These defibrillators will be raffled at county meetings over the coming months. We’re also committed to organising training on the equipment. This initiative will bring benefits beyond our own members by providing access to life saving equipment for the communities we serve.” 

Other examples of community support already provided by this enthusiastic branch, include branded bibs, and kit supplies for Parkvilla football club, the provision of kits to a soccer team for children with additional needs in Whitehall, and funding for local scouts in Ballymun. 

Carol continued: “One thing that is evident from our experience in rolling out the Community Engagement Initiative, is just how involved our members are in their local communities. We’re really proud that we can lend a little extra help to the causes that matter to our members.” 

The division is encouraging all branches to consider initiatives which may be appropriate to the communities in which their members live and work, and are offering support with members' plans. 

Examples of community initiatives could include participation in local campaigns, cultural and sporting activities, sponsorship or joint union activities in schools and colleges.  

Featured in photo: Conor Mc Kenna, NDNL branch Treasurer and SNA, Phil Quinlan SNA and author, Carol Mc Sherry Equality Officer NDNL branch and SNA, Derek Nevin Parkvilla Football Club, Navan.  

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