This project is funded by Atlantic Philanthropies over a five year period. The project has a regional focus but will be delivered at local level. The regional co-ordination and management is provided by the Volunteer Development Agency; local delivery is in association with local Volunteer Centres. Two of the Volunteer Centres provide strategic support including hosting staff (Belfast & Castlereagh Volunteer Centre/VSB and North West Volunteer Centre) and supporting partnerships of local stakeholders.

Initially focus will be in the Belfast & Castlereagh and L'Derry and Strabane areas. As the project develops over the next two years focus will spread out to the rest of Northern Ireland.

Project Objectives

• To challenge attitudes and raise awareness of the contribution and benefits of volunteering.
• To increase the number of older volunteers.
• To improve access to and develop volunteer opportunities for older people that meet their expectations and positively impact on communities.
• To enhance older people's quality of life in relation to equality, social inclusion, support and health issues.

Note: Age range is primarily 60+ with scope to include 50+.

Unlocking Potential Team Contact Details

Billy Eagleson - Project Manager 
T 028 9081 8320 E billy@volunteering-ni.org

Sarah-Jane Goldring - Development Officer (based at VSB) 
T 028 9020 0858 E sarah-jane@volunteering-ni.org

Claire McCusker - Development Officer (based at North West Volunteer Centre)  
T 028 7127 1017 E claire@volunteering-ni.org

Christine Irvine - Policy & Information Officer 
T 028 9081 8332 E christine@volunteering-ni.org

Ciaran Rice - Administrative Officer 
T 028 9081 8311 E ciaran@volunteering-ni.org