Latest News
It is with great pleasure that we invite you to attend our upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM), which coincides with a very special occasion: celebrating 30 years of our business journey.
This AGM will not only cover the usual company updates and important decisions but will also be a chance to reflect on three decades of milestones, challenges, and successes that have shaped who we are today.
The meeting will take place on Wednesday 17th June at 7 pm, held at Killymoon Golf Club, Cookstown. We kindly ask you to confirm your attendance by Thursday 4th June (max of 2 people per group) so we can make the necessary arrangements for a comfortable and engaging experience.
We look forward to celebrating this meaningful milestone together and sharing our vision for the future. Should you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Thank you for being a valued part of our journey. We hope to see you at the AGM.
Please note:
If your group (paid up member) wishes to nominate someone for the Board, please complete the Nomination Form and return it to us on or before Wednesday, 10th June 2026. If you would like to discuss the possibility of nominating someone from your group, please contact us.
Please reply to info@cwsan.org if you wish to attend.
Take 5 Funding Opportunity
Take 5 for Communities Call for Proposals
Would your group be interested in participating in CWSAN new Take 5 in Communities Initiative within Midulster area (Cookstown & Magherafelt).
This is a new joint programme, based around Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing, which is a public message aimed at improving the wellbeing of the whole community. To find out more about the 5 key themes of Connect, Learn, Be Active Take Notice and Give, open the link below https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/…/take-5-steps…
Selected groups will be invited to attend a Take 5 familiarisation event and then each group will be allocated up to £300 to carry out a Take 5 activity/activities within their communities.
If your group is interested and is not currently in receipt of CWSAN Model Group funding (SPDO / NICHI) please email: register@cwsan.org for an Expression of Interest Form.
All forms must be completed and returned by Monday 8th June 2026 .
Understanding Self Harm
Heaney Homeplace Bellaghy
Wednesday 23rd October 2025
9.30am – 1 pm
This workshop examines the behaviour of self-harm in terms of what circumstances may have started the behaviour, how those situations make the person feel and how the feelings manifest in self-harming behaviour. It will also look at the impact of alcohol use on self-harming and suicidal behaviours.
To register please email register@cwsan.org
Suicide Prevention Changemakers Event Stormont 8th September 2025
Suicide Prevention Development Officers across the Northern locality including CWSAN SPDO were delighted to be represented at the ‘Changemakers: Suicide Prevention’ Event in Stormont, hosted by The All Party Group for Suicide Prevention.
This event was organised to bring together organisations working to prevent suicide and support mental health across Northern Ireland.
An excellent opportunity to highlight grass roots work within the Northern Locality,with MLA’S and decision makers.
Mid Ulster District Council PEACEPLUS Health and Wellbeing Programme
Launch of New PEACEPLUS Health and Wellbeing Programme across Mid Ulster
A new Mid Ulster based programme working with local Youth, people with Disability and with Men’s and Women’s Sheds was launched on Friday 29th August in The Hill of O’Neill/Ranfurly House. The three-year Health and Wellbeing Programme is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It is being delivered on behalf of Mid Ulster District Council under its 1.1 Co-Designed Local PEACEPLUS Action Plans, within the theme ‘Thriving and Peaceful Communities’.
Cookstown & Western Shores Area Network (CWSAN) and its Delivery Partners announced the launch of the initiative which will engage 750 beneficiaries from across the district, with a strong focus on disadvantaged and marginalised groups. The programme aims to promote social inclusion while improving mental, emotional, and overall wellbeing.
Rosaleen Hanna, Chairperson of CWSAN, commented:
“As CWSAN enters its 30th year of operation, the delivery of this programme across Mid Ulster perfectly aligns with our ethos and commitment to supporting local communities. We are delighted to work with the Mid Ulster PEACEPLUS Partnership on a Health and Well-being initiative which reflects our ongoing drive to connect and collaborate with key community partners and statutory agencies providing local support to communities across the district.
We would encourage those groups with a focus on Men’s and Women’s Sheds, Disability and/or Youth Resilience to get in contact with the programme. Contact Conor at Healthandwellbeing@cwsan.org
Councillor John McNamee, Chairperson of the Mid Ulster PEACEPLUS Partnership noted that:
“This is the first of our Mid Ulster PEACEPLUS projects off the ground; projects that will deliver real change to Mid Ulster residents. The project, supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) will result in better health and well-being outcomes and help to address the complex causes of social isolation and feelings of loneliness that impact on poor mental and physical health, especially in rural districts like Mid Ulster.”
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Frances Burton has also welcomed the launch of the first Mid Ulster project, saying:
“The Mid Ulster PEACEPLUS Co-Designed Local Community Action Plan has huge potential has huge potential in supporting the development of Mid Ulster as one that is equitable, diverse and inclusive. The projects delivered over the next three years are designed to take the opportunities presented by Peace, delivering on addressing key needs in our rural and urban areas, enhancing social, economic and environmental regeneration for generations to come.”
The Programme is designed to
- Combat Isolation and Loneliness through Men’s and Women’s Sheds.
- Support skills development, social networking and civic participation through a Disability Engagement Programme
- Address key concerns including mental health, healthy relationships, and personal safety through our Youth Resilience Programme.
Through various designed activities the programme will strengthen the capacity of cross-community groups, build leadership and skills, increase volunteering opportunities, create sustainable networks and promote diversity and inclusion.
The key Delivery Partners who will pioneer the programme over the next three years are CWSAN, the Mid Ulster Disability Forum and Shopmobility Mid Ulster along with Fresh Minds Education Ltd. These Partners bring extensive experience and expertise to this programme, having successfully delivered initiatives such as the Peace IV Engaging Rural Communities project. Having developed a strong collaboration ethos and an understanding of the issues on the ground a robust project management schedule is being put in place to achieve Programme success.
Rural Support Networks Showcase the Power of Collaboration at Stormont Event
Local Rural Support Networks (RSNs) gathered at the Long Gallery in Parliament Buildings on Monday afternoon for their “Collaborating for the Future” event, celebrating the crucial role these networks have played in supporting rural communities across Northern Ireland since the 1990s. The event also highlighted the importance of collaboration between RSNs, local community groups, key stakeholders, and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), as well as government departments.
Established in the early 1990s, the eight RSNs operating across Northern Ireland have employed a community development approach to bring rural communities together. Through voluntary cooperation, these independent networks have maximized local and sub-regional collaborative action.
Conor Corr, Manager of the Cookstown & Western Shores RSN in Mid-Ulster, shared a key achievement: “One of our proudest moments was securing the partnership and support of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to the development of the Rural Community Development Support Service through the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) programme. This Service has been vital in supporting our vision to sustain and develop rural communities and foster a strong sense of belonging.”
The Rural Community Development Support Service provides vital financial assistance to Rural Support Networks, ensuring that a robust rural community development infrastructure exists to support over 3,000 voluntary and community organisations linked to the networks. In 2024/2025, the Service will receive £935,000, bringing the total investment by DAERA since the introduction of the new TRPSI framework in 2015/2016 to over £7.6 million.
Minister for DAERA, Andrew Muir, attended the event and emphasized the impact of this support: “I am very aware of the role and significant support from my Department to the Support Service in supporting the Rural Support Networks. Rural voluntary and community organisations are, in so many cases, the glue that bonds and sustains rural people and communities and makes them areas where people want to live, work, and be proud to ’call home’. Without a robust voluntary and community sector our rural communities would be much worse off. Therefore, I am grateful to the Rural Support Networks for their role in providing much needed support and assistance to these rural voluntary and community organisations right across Northern Ireland”.
Briege Conway, Manager of the Northern Area Community Network, concluded by underscoring the importance of collaboration: “By pooling resources and expertise, we’ve proven that working together has a greater impact. Nearly 30 years of successful partnerships have shown that collaboration within the Rural Support Networks—across sectors and with government—is crucial for achieving sustainable, positive change in rural communities.”
The event was opened by host Colm Gildernew MLA and also addressed by Co- host Deborah Erskine MLA . Also in attendance was Mike Nesbitt, Minister for Health and around twenty other MLA’s took time out of their busy schedules to meet Community representatives alongside Departmental officials from the Department for Communities, (DfC), The Executive Office (TEO) and DAERA. Presentations by County Down RSN Manager Nicholas McCrickard, focused on the community-driven development efforts led by RSNs, the breadth of partnerships supporting rural areas, and the results of recent surveys conducted with local communities to determine future needs and priorities.
At the event, Minister Muir also took the opportunity to announce the opening of Rural Micro Capital Grant Scheme 2024/2025 Tranche 2. Minister Muir noted “Since the Rural Micro Capital Grant Scheme was introduced in 2015, grant aid totalling £6.1m has been invested in 4,717 projects. The impact that a small amount of grant aid, available through this Scheme makes to a rural organisation is fantastic and I encourage others to avail of the current RMCG, which is now open for applications until 5 December 2024.
Apply online:
Local Rural Support Networks are assisting my Department with the promotion and delivery of the Scheme and so I would encourage all rural organisations to make contact with their local Network.”
The “Collaborating for the Future” event served as a reminder of the power of partnership in Rural Development and the continued commitment of Rural Support Networks, Government Departments and local organisations in strengthening the future of Northern Ireland’s rural communities.
Recent Newsletters
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CWSAN Newsletter December 2023
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CWSAN Newsletter September 2022
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CWSAN Newsletter – September 2021
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CWSAN Newsletter – June 2021
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Help stop the spread of covid 19 – PHA guidance update – 29..03.21
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Check our CWSAN Latest Facebook Posts
Do you know how to get in touch with your local Neighbourhood policing team? Take a look at the website to see more info about the team and the areas they cover. ![]()
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orlo.uk/f96k6![]()
![]()
#NeighbourhoodPolicingWeekDo you know how to get in touch with your local Neighbourhood policing team? Take a look at our website to see more info about the team and the areas they cover. ![]()
![]()
orlo.uk/f96k6![]()
![]()
#NeighbourhoodPolicingWeek
If your going to the Disability Information Day between 11am and 2pm tomorrow Wed 17th June at Cookstown Community Centre organised by Mobility Mid Ulster call over to our information stand and say hello and find out how we can support you or your group!![]()
#communitysupport![]()
#CommunityMatters![]()
#InclusionMatters ![]()
#midulster ![]()
#healthinequalities
Please see the new website to help groups promote activities and create opportunities for new connections or reconnections, building friendships and reducing loneliness and isolation for people living in #MidUlster through the Mid Ulster loneliness network. Connect with others and find resources and support at www.muln.org ![]()
#buildingfriendships #smallactsofkindness![]()
#LonelinessAwareness![]()
#healthinequalities![]()
Mid Ulster District Council![]()
Mid Ulster Disability Forum![]()
Northern Health and Social Care Trust![]()
Southern Health and Social Care Trust![]()
South West College![]()
Northern Regional College![]()
COSTA Community Organisations of South Tyrone & Areas![]()
Cwsan MidUlster![]()
Mid Ulster Volunteer Centre ![]()
Volunteer Now
Free LGBTQIA+ Awareness Training 24/06/2026 2 p.m. This session is open to community and voluntary groups wishing to gain a better awareness of the issues impacting the lives of LGBTQI+ people and to reduce stigma.![]()
Online session facilitated by the Rainbow Project ![]()
To register email denise@cwsan.org
Men experience Domestic Violence too![]()
Domestic Abuse: Men aren't an afterthought... ![]()
Men Action Network alongside the Domestic & Sexual Abuse Helpline are raising awareness of the challenges many men face. ![]()
Strong partnerships like this help ensure that men know they are not alone, that support is available, and that their experiences are recognised and taken seriously. ![]()
Men can be victims of domestic and sexual abuse, and that many suffer in silence due to stigma, shame, fear of not being believed, or simply not knowing where to turn.![]()
Every man deserves to be heard, supported, and treated with dignity. No one should feel that their experiences matter less because of their gender.![]()
Men's Health Week is an important opportunity to highlight these issues, but our commitment to supporting men continues every day of the year. ![]()
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If you're struggling, please know that help is available and reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.Men Experience D
Take 5 Funding Now Open
Funding Opportunity
Take 5 for Communities Call for Proposals
Would your group be interested in participating in CWSAN new Take 5 in Communities Initiative within Midulster area (Cookstown & Magherafelt).
This is a new joint programme, based around Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing, which is a public message aimed at improving the wellbeing of the whole community. To find out more about the 5 key themes of Connect, Learn, Be Active Take Notice and Give, open the link below https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/…/take-5-steps…
Selected groups will be invited to attend a Take 5 familiarisation event and then each group will be allocated up to £300 to carry out a Take 5 activity/activities within their communities.
If your group is interested and is not currently in receipt of CWSAN Model Group funding (SPDO / NICHI) please email: register@cwsan.org for an Expression of Interest Form.
All forms must be completed and returned by Monday 8th June 2026 .
Mid Ulster District Council PEACEPLUS Health and Wellbeing Programme
Mid Ulster District Council PEACEPLUS Health and Wellbeing Programme
Launch of New PEACEPLUS Health and Wellbeing Programme across Mid Ulster
A new Mid Ulster based programme working with local Youth, people with Disability and with Men’s and Women’s Sheds was launched on Friday 29th August in The Hill of O’Neill/Ranfurly House. The three-year Health and Wellbeing Programme is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It is being delivered on behalf of Mid Ulster District Council under its 1.1 Co-Designed Local PEACEPLUS Action Plans, within the theme ‘Thriving and Peaceful Communities’.
Cookstown & Western Shores Area Network (CWSAN) and its Delivery Partners announced the launch of the initiative which will engage 750 beneficiaries from across the district, with a strong focus on disadvantaged and marginalised groups. The programme aims to promote social inclusion while improving mental, emotional, and overall wellbeing.
Rosaleen Hanna, Chairperson of CWSAN, commented:
“As CWSAN enters its 30th year of operation, the delivery of this programme across Mid Ulster perfectly aligns with our ethos and commitment to supporting local communities. We are delighted to work with the Mid Ulster PEACEPLUS Partnership on a Health and Well-being initiative which reflects our ongoing drive to connect and collaborate with key community partners and statutory agencies providing local support to communities across the district.
We would encourage those groups with a focus on Men’s and Women’s Sheds, Disability and/or Youth Resilience to get in contact with the programme. Contact Conor at Healthandwellbeing@cwsan.org
Councillor John McNamee, Chairperson of the Mid Ulster PEACEPLUS Partnership noted that:
“This is the first of our Mid Ulster PEACEPLUS projects off the ground; projects that will deliver real change to Mid Ulster residents. The project, supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) will result in better health and well-being outcomes and help to address the complex causes of social isolation and feelings of loneliness that impact on poor mental and physical health, especially in rural districts like Mid Ulster.”
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Frances Burton has also welcomed the launch of the first Mid Ulster project, saying:
“The Mid Ulster PEACEPLUS Co-Designed Local Community Action Plan has huge potential has huge potential in supporting the development of Mid Ulster as one that is equitable, diverse and inclusive. The projects delivered over the next three years are designed to take the opportunities presented by Peace, delivering on addressing key needs in our rural and urban areas, enhancing social, economic and environmental regeneration for generations to come.”
The Programme is designed to
- Combat Isolation and Loneliness through Men’s and Women’s Sheds.
- Support skills development, social networking and civic participation through a Disability Engagement Programme
- Address key concerns including mental health, healthy relationships, and personal safety through our Youth Resilience Programme.
Through various designed activities the programme will strengthen the capacity of cross-community groups, build leadership and skills, increase volunteering opportunities, create sustainable networks and promote diversity and inclusion.
The key Delivery Partners who will pioneer the programme over the next three years are CWSAN, the Mid Ulster Disability Forum and Shopmobility Mid Ulster along with Fresh Minds Education Ltd. These Partners bring extensive experience and expertise to this programme, having successfully delivered initiatives such as the Peace IV Engaging Rural Communities project. Having developed a strong collaboration ethos and an understanding of the issues on the ground a robust project management schedule is being put in place to achieve Programme success.
Contact Information Email: healthandwellbeing@cwsan.org Phone: 028 877 738845
Charity Commission Annual Returns Workshop 24/10/2024 @ 7 pm
Charities Commission Reporting/Annual Returns – Thurs 24th Oct 2024 @7.00pm
CWSAN is holding this Charities Commission reporting workshop to ensure your groups compliance with the charities commission NI annual accounting requirements & annual returns. The workshop will be held on Zoom, To register email info@cwsan.org
CWSAN Newsletter May 2024
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***Community Networks Showcase Evaluation and Outcomes Based Approach of Commissioned PHA Projects***
Community Networks in the Northern Locality including @crun, @cwsan, @impact and @nacn hosted a showcasing event in partnership with @pha, commissioners for the NICHI(Networks Involving Communities in Health Improvement) and Suicide Prevention Projects to highlight the work and support for these projects over the 15 years.
We were delighted Minister for Health Robin Swann MLA, Aidan Dawson (PHA Chief Executive) and Colin Coffey (PHA Chairman) alongside other senior members of PHA Health Improvement Team North were keynote speakers and attendees at the event. A number of community organisations from across the Northern Locality were also present and we thank the groups who took part in the discussion panel and assisted in compering the event.
We would like to thank Dr. Helga Sneddon for her evaluation and OBA support to the Networks on measuring the impact and outcomes of the
community development approaches to promoting health and wellbeing and preventing suicide in the Northern locality.
CWSAN AGM Notice 2022
COOKSTOWN & WESTERN SHORES AREA NETWORK (CWSAN)
Will hold its
Annual General Meeting
via Zoom
On Thursday 17th November 2022 at 7.30 pm
to register email info@cwsan.org