As Good Relations Week 2025 approaches (13-19 October), a decade-long partnership between two groups from different communities in the region exemplifies this year's theme of Connect.
South Armagh Rural Women's Network (SARWN) from Crossmaglen, and REACT, a community organisation based in Armagh City, have spent ten years proving that meaningful connections can transcend traditional community divisions. Their collaboration, supported by the Victims and Survivors Service (VSS), showcases the transformative power of working together.
VSS works to improve the health and wellbeing of victims and survivors of the Troubles/conflict through a range of needs-based support and services. The organisation provides victim-centred support including talking therapy, advocacy, and social support programmes, ensuring resources reach those most in need through trusted partnerships with local organisations.
SARWN hosts an annual Good Relations event, welcoming members of REACT to Crossmaglen. This year's event, supported by VSS and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, saw SARWN members exhibiting their impressive range of crafts, including traditional lace making, felting, painting, crocheting, and quilting, alongside line dancing and music. Women from both communities enjoyed the displays together, danced side by side, and strengthened friendships over lunch.
Andrew Walker, CEO of VSS, said: "We are delighted to support REACT and SARWN and this event in particular, which reflects VSS's commitment to being 'Connected' – one of our core values alongside being trauma informed, compassionate, and trusted."
Cliodhna Geraghty, South Armagh Rural Women’s Network, said: "Our partnership with REACT perfectly embodies Good Relations Week's Connect theme. Our members have shown that connection and friendship can flourish between communities from different traditions."
The partnership extends beyond annual celebrations. Throughout the past decade, both groups have participated in joint respite trips, relaxation evenings, craft workshops, cooking demonstrations, and gardening projects.
Through its network of partnerships with organisations like REACT and SARWN, VSS demonstrates how effective support positively impacts individuals but also encompasses community relationships, shared activities, and cross-community understanding.
Shirley Hayes, REACT, said: "Our commitment to supporting victims and survivors aligns perfectly with SARWN's community-focused approach. After ten years of friendship, craft-sharing, and mutual support, our members prove that when communities choose connection over division, everyone prospers."
This 10th anniversary celebration marks not just a milestone for both organisations but exemplifies how VSS's partnership with community and voluntary organisations creates lasting change, fostering resilience and hope.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chair, Councillor Philip Campbell, said: "Newry, Mourne and Down District Council are delighted to support South Armagh Rural Women's Network for their good relations event through our Good Relations Financial Assistance. By funding initiatives like this, we are helping to strengthen relationships, celebrate diversity, and build inclusive communities for the future.”