Newtownabbey Community Collaboration ‘THRiVE’-ing with launch of new website

The THRiVE collaboration intends to transform outcomes for children and young people in Rathcoole and Monkstown through a focus on their four key priorities of aspiration, attainment, wellbeing and collaboration.

In 2019 they launched their first major campaign, WE CAN, which focused on building aspiration by sharing the positive messages and stories of children, young people and families in the local community.

They have continued to build on that activity by bringing the community together through events, WE CAN awards and engagement initiatives. The BOOST and ASPIRE projects have delivered over 3,000 targeted literacy, numeracy and STEM sessions for over 300 pupils needing some extra help. Over 450 parents have engaged in play and learning with their children through family learning events.

THRiVE also focuses on supporting parents, with 40 local parents signing up to be a part of the Parent Champion Group, working to advocate for parents and support positive parenting throughout the community.

THRiVE Chairperson, Frazer Bailie said: “We’re delighted to have reached this point in our journey. Since 2015 we have been working together to transform and build on the successes of children and young people from the area and it’s wonderful to be able to launch this new website as a means to share collective updates and let people know about the great work and successes in the community.”

Claire Humphrey, Co-ordinator of THRiVE added: “It’s been a challenging year for everyone as a result of Covid-19 and we’ve definitely seen first-hand the increased pressures placed upon families in Newtownabbey through the global pandemic.

“It’s been inspiring to see how parents, schools and community groups involved with THRiVE have pulled together to engage with and support local young people and their families.”

THRiVE supports schools and community partners to engage with young people in the area in a productive way, to raise aspiration, build hope and provide education and employment alternatives, the importance of which was highlighted recently by Boxing legend, and THRiVE supporter, Carl Frampton.

Carl said: “Young people in working class areas need opportunities and some new alternatives for their future. They need education programmes and help with their mental health too.

“A while ago I helped launch THRiVE and this is what they’re trying to do – it’s a group of local parents, schools, community groups and others all pulling together to help children and young people do well. We need more of these types of groups to really help our kids to thrive. WE CAN all pull together to make things better.”

With an eye on the future, THRiVE is ready for the year ahead and is focused on continuing to support young people to achieve, while also training adults in the community to support young peoples’ emotional wellbeing.

For further information, or to contact THRiVE, visit their new website at www.thrivenewtownabbey.co.uk

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