The Social Safety Approach Programme is a community-based initiative led by Ballyhoura Development CLG, delivered in partnership with local residents, Cork County Council, Respond, and other local services.

The programme is being delivered in the North Side estates of Charleville, Co. Cork. It is based on an Interreg Europe expert-approved best practice developed by the Municipality of Heerlen in the Netherlands, and has been adapted to the Irish context through Ballyhoura Development’s involvement in the CITICESS – Citizen-Centred Social Services project.

The Social Safety Approach focuses on early intervention, visibility, and collaboration, supporting communities to address issues before they escalate and to play an active role in shaping safer, more connected neighbourhoods.

The Social Safety Approach Programme is being delivered in parallel with:

• The CITICESS Pilot Action – the Ballyhoura Breakthrough

• The Charleville Community and Family Support Project

This ensures a coordinated and complementary approach to supporting families and communities across the area.

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What the Programme Involves

• A visible community presence from project staff

• Community forums where residents can raise concerns and help shape local responses

• One-to-one support and home visits

• Close interagency working to improve coordination between services

• Training, workshops, and community-led activities that strengthen connection and social cohesion

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What We Aim to Achieve

• Improved feelings of safety and wellbeing

• Stronger relationships between residents and local services

• Increased community participation and local leadership

• A safer, more connected, and more resilient community

For any further information contact Laura Moloney McCarthy at [email protected] or 086-3959361.

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This project is supported by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration through the Community Safety Fund 2025.