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Apex Housing Association | Northern Ireland

Home News stories Strand Foyer residents capture the ‘lockdown’ experience

Strand Foyer resident Leah Crawford and some of her 'lockdown' photos
Strand Foyer residents capture the ‘lockdown’ experience

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Over the last month a group of young people from Strand Foyer in Derry~Londonderry have been taking part in activities including quizzes, gaming nights and a weekly competition to help them keep busy during lockdown.

The activities have been organised for residents by the Peace Bytes programme with the aim of encouraging residents to engage with and support each other whilst helping to improve their mental and physical health.

Last week the group participated in a ‘lockdown’ photo competition, with participants capturing images of deserted landscape and cityscape locations across Derry~Londonderry whilst also taking photos to illustrate the reality of lockdown for them.

 

Michael Mulrine, Peace Bytes Coordinator, explains:

During lockdown a routine of sorts becomes more necessary than usual and activities such as the photography competition not only help to create a routine but encourage the young people to safely explore their surroundings and enjoy the outdoors. Overall, we’re delighted with how well the group has been engaging with the activities on offer.

Peace Bytes is a cross-community programme aimed at young people aged 14 – 24 and is funded through the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), with match funding provided by the Northern Ireland Executive and Irish Department for Children & Youth Affairs. It aims to help participants overcome barriers to their potential, build their confidence and develop links with their peers from different backgrounds, in a non-pressured environment.

Louise Montgomery, Manager of Strand Foyer, commented:

During these difficult times, young people from Strand Foyer have benefitted from a variety of online activities, including this great programme run by Peace Bytes. A total of twelve residents are participating and the feedback has been very positive, with residents appreciating the opportunities to keep busy during the current pandemic.

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