Network support & development

IDP works closely with all its partners, community & voluntary sector, Statutory and schools, environmental and social partners. As part of this we facilitate local Inishowen area level networks to work together to take effective joint action. We also work in at county wide level in other relevant networks and working groups to effect change and support our local communities.

IFAN – Inishowen Family Action Network provides coordinated supports to families and children in our community. It is an interagency subgroup made up of community & voluntary groups, statutory agencies, schools and other organisations providing supports to families. The aim is be there for our community by working together to provide meaningful supports such as webinars, resilience workshops, programmes for children in primary and secondary school, information sessions, group support sessions, listening ear and counselling services, amongst others.

Find out more here

The IFAN DCB working group set up to address the challenges facing families affected by MICA/DCB and provide community responses worked on actions collectively.  Two DCB Facilitators are now in place, and a range of supports continue to be offered in schools, community settings and via counselling supports. From 2025 will be now be part of the main IFAN group.

Contact: denise@inishowen.ie  rachel@inishowen.ie

For more information about DCB supports, click here

 

Members of IFAN DCB subgroup

The IFAN Integrating Communities subgroup purpose is to support the inclusion and integration of new communities, with a priority focus on refugees and asylum seekers, in the Inishowen area.  The group will also work to identify existing gaps in services and supports within the network area and respond to these needs by linking in or advocating with local agencies/departments relevant to situations that arise.

Contact: denise@inishowen.ie rachel@inishowen.ie

For more information about supports for migrants, click here

The Inishowen Social Enterprise Network (ISEN) was established in 2003 and involves working with approximately 20 social enterprises across Inishowen to grow and realise their potential.  We do this by working together to identify needs and opportunities, provide training, mentoring and shared space to learn from each other.  We also worked with the sector to develop a social enterprise strategy and action plan.  This work also links in and connects with other on relevant information and national networks and fora. +link to Social Enterprise Strategy

Contact: ana@inishowen.ie

If you are interested in setting up a social enterprise in Inishowen, find out about our supports here 

 

Inishowen Social Enterprise Network members & government representatives

ECO Inishowen aims to educate and raise awareness through local action initiatives and activities, integrating personal, environmental and community development. The cross-cutting themes take account of Sustainable Development Goals, Fairtrade, local and national Climate Action Plans and local and national Biodiversity Action Plans, delivered through tangible and relevant local projects that join the dots between local and global issues, and provides opportunities for people to “be the change”.

Other smaller networks/working groups are being advanced at a local town/community level.  Towns and villages are also working together to develop actions such as community gardens, walks, and energy hubs.

Find out more here

 

ISEC Energy Master plan launched in 2021, successful submission of 4 Community Owned Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) applications to ESB Networks 2023, Strategic Plan and feasibility study on community-led biogas power plant for electricity and heat generation in 2023, ongoing support of applicants for SEAI Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme.

ISEC aims to build a Resilient, Just and Sustainable Future for Inishowen

  • Optimise local resources and leverage national opportunities for community-led renewable energy generation projects.
  • Enhance the community’s access to alternative income generation activities and support services that promote rural employment and market access.
  • Support home retrofits, exploring alternative transport options and upskilling of our workforce to achieve this.
  • Ensure a Just Transition for everyone in our community.