Project launched to support refugee community across Omagh

A NEW project that will provide vital support for refugees living locally was launched last week. Named ‘New Communities, New Beginnings’, it aims to support the refugees in aspects of daily life in the North and any unexpected or unique problems each family group may have.

Currently, there are around 50 refugee families, all from Syria, in the Fermanagh and Omagh District council area.

Speaking at the launch event in Omagh, Amanda Doherty, who is the senior head of communications and engagement at the National Lottery Community Fund, said, “As ‘New Communities New Beginnings’ starts the beginning of its journey, we are delighted to be here. This is a great example of a project where people are at the centre of it…

“The most successful projects are those that are developed, designed and delivered by the people that the project is for. This initiative shows ownership, investment and a sense of belonging through a shared vision… bringing together the needs ideas and hopes of Syrian families in this district.”

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council chair, Errol Thompson, said he was proud to represent the local authority at the event. He added, “There have always been two main traditions in Northern Ireland and I’m very happy to welcome a third.

FAIRNES, EQUALITY AND RESPECT

“It is a great pleasure to be with you all, and I look forward to working with everyone from the refugee community in the future. I believe that everyone should be treated with respect with fairness and equality for all.”

Development officer for the project, Mary Lafferty, stated that its main aims are to provide advice and guidance, provide more employment opportunities, to engage with the community through cultural workshops, to create cultural ambassadors, to provide language support and identify future funding.

She said, “I am so proud to be involved in this project and to support the local refugee community in Omagh and Fermanagh.

“This all started in a very makeshift fashion with myself offering help to the community through language lessons and advice.

“But those of you who have worked with the Syrian community know you soon forget your job title and you just become a friend.

“After speaking to the community, we identified some key issues that were unexpected.

“So we decided to try and create a project that will help the local refugee population deal with these issues.” The development officer added, “I am very thankful to The National Lottery Community fund and the local council for all their support with this project.”