€145k funding for community safety scheme in North Cork town

Almost €145,000 has been allocated by the Department of Justice to pilot a new community-based safety approach in North Cork.

Funding of €142,500 has been allocated to Ballyhoura Development CLG under the department’s Community Safety Fund 2025 to pilot an innovative social safety approach in Charleville.

The scheme was inspired by a pioneering model in Heerlen in the Netherlands, and was subsequently tailored to fit Irish communities.

The initiative will be delivered in the northside estates of Charleville, and aims to strengthen safety, wellbeing, and livability within the local community by ensuring trained staff are visible, accessible, and actively supporting residents on the ground.

Working closely with key statutory and community partners, including An Garda Síochána, Tusla, the HSE, and local schools, the project will promote early intervention, prevention, and cross-agency collaboration.

Activities will include home visits, community forums, and the co-creation of Community Social Safety Plans that reflect the priorities and lived experiences of residents.

Eileen O’Keeffe, development manager at Ballyhoura Development CLG, said the organisation was delighted to receive the support from the Department of Justice.

The pilot will be implemented in partnership with Cork County Council and Respond through the existing Battview Matters Community and Family Support Project.

At the heart of the initiative is a people-centered approach focused on trust-building, local engagement, and responsive support.

The pilot will run until the end of 2025 and, if successful, has the potential to shape future policy and practice in community safety and wellbeing at a national level.