People 1st Secures Funding for Innovative PEACEPLUS Language and Integration Project in Belfast
Celebrating the PEACEPLUS Programme announcement at Belfast City Hall, with the Lord Mayor of Belfast and Gráinne McBride from People 1st on the far right.
People 1st is thrilled to announce the successful acquisition of funding from the PEACEPLUS Programme to launch the groundbreaking “Employability – Language Up” project in Belfast. This three-year initiative, set to commence in March 2025, aims to empower 816 individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds with essential language skills and cultural integration support.
The “Employability – Language Up” project comprises two interconnected strands:
Community Provision of Flexible Language Courses: Offering vocationally-oriented English language classes tailored to participants’ needs.
Community Programme of Activities: Providing practical integration experiences and opportunities to apply newly acquired language skills in real-world settings.
PEACEPLUS programme benefits participants.
Key features of the project include:
Tailored language courses focusing on vocational and life skills
Co-designed community activities promoting cultural exchange
Partnerships with local organizations to ensure citywide reach
Emphasis on cross-community engagement and peace-building
People 1st will collaborate closely with community stakeholders to implement this ambitious programme. The project aligns with the Belfast PEACEPLUS Local Community Action Plan’s vision of creating a compassionate, inclusive, and sustainable city shared by all its residents.
This project represents a significant step towards fostering inclusivity and economic integration in Belfast. By combining language education with community engagement, we’re creating pathways for participants to fully participate in Belfast’s vibrant society and economy.
Gráinne McBride, Director at People 1st.
For more information about the “Employability – Language Up” project or to get involved, please contact Gráinne McBride [email protected]
This project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB)
The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) is a North South Body with the statutory remit for managing EU Funding programmes within Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.
PEACEPLUS is a cross-border funding programme designed to support peace and prosperity across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland. The total value of PEACEPLUS is €1.14 billion.
PEACEPLUS is co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.
The project forms part of the €17.1m Belfast PEACEPLUS Local Community Action Plan, which is led by Belfast City Council.
