Young people from across Derry/Londonderry took part in a 3-mile rowing race on the River Foyle followed by a 2-mile cycle race as part of Choice Housing’s Good Relations initiative for the area. Working alongside Northwest Youth Services, participants from across secondary schools in Derry/Londonderry signed up for the challenge which ended with a community celebration.
The event was supported by the Department for Communities (DfC) and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme. The Programme has its origins in the NI Executive Together: Building a United Community Strategy which reflects the Executive’s commitment to improving community relations and continuing the journey towards a more united and shared society. A potential total of £21.7M will be invested in the Rosses Gate, Derry/Londonderry, shared housing development and associated five-year Good Relations Plan.
Alongside the competitors, the event brought together spectators who showed their support for the young participants, enjoying a family day out. The event was organised by Choice Housing in partnership with Northwest Youth Services and formed part of the housing associations’ weeklong events and activities to mark Good Relations Week. Open to tenants from Choice Housing’s Shared Housing Development – Rosses Gate as well as partner organisations, community groups, schools and the general public, over 60 young people participated in a successful cross community family fun day.
Choice Housing’s Community Development Manager, Jonathon Blakely, said, “This event was a great platform to bring together young people from across the Derry/Londonderry area to participate in a fun event with a competitive edge.
“It has been another incredibly successful Good Relations week for Choice Housing, filled with events, activities and initiatives aimed at developing and sustaining healthy shared communities. This event brought together people from across communities to cheer on our young people and enjoyed a community day – which is at the heart of Choice’s commitment to good relations in our communities.”