07 Dec 2025

Corrymeela, in partnership with the Think–tank for Action on Social Change (TASC.IE), is developing a cross–border pilot project designed to explore trauma from the perspective of community and voluntary practitioners.

This initiative builds on previous work by Corrymeela and Starling Collective, which identified the need to address the experiences of trauma within the community and voluntary sector, particularly amongst practitioners working in marginalised and disadvantaged communities. It will draw on international research into trauma and its societal impact.

The project adopts a rights–based, trauma–informed approach, bringing together practitioners from 15 community and voluntary organisations. The aims are to:

• Establish a cross–sectoral forum committed to inclusive dialogue and shared learning. Through five collective sessions, participants will explore various concepts of trauma, its impacts, and innovative opportunities for collective healing.
• Map and evaluate findings from the forum, examining the collective impact of community trauma, contextual responses, and strategies to build a sustainable sector for future generations.
• Compile and disseminate a final report across the sector, generating contextual evidence to support the adoption of rights–based, trauma–informed approaches that diversify perspectives and influence policy development.
• Participation requires committing to 5 sessions including 2 overnight residentials.

Recruitment is now open for one representative from community and voluntary organisations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

For further information, or to express interest in participating: 

Contact: Denise Bradley, Corrymeela denisebradley@corrymeela.org

Places are limited, and early registration is recommended. Closing date for registration 18th December 2025

This project has been funded by Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and The Irelands Funds Heart of the Community Fund Award.