Dignity, Community Power, and Grassroots Action in Derry How does a single table in an office transform into a thriving full-service community shop tackling the cost-of-living crisis head-on? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Amie Gallagher from the Focus Project, based at the Ráth Mór Complex on Bligh’s Lane in Derry. What began before COVID through local school networks as a modest initiative to support families has grown into a cornerstone of community

In the latest episode of Sustainable Stories, we sit down with Michael Holmes from Hope 365 to explore the tangible, life-changing power of circular economy networking. Michael shares how joining NIRN, and particularly attending last years NIRN Conference unlocked opportunities to divert items from waste and directly support vulnerable children in Ethiopia.

What happens when a Community Fridge gets a surplus of bread? If you are Mark and Rachel, you turn it into beer! In our latest Sustainable Stories episode, we explore the incredible story of Crumbs Golden Ale and how the amazing young adults at The Playtrail transformed leftover loaves into breadcrumbs, which the Walled City Brewery then brewed into a crisp, delicious golden ale. Listen to the episode now to hear how this “simple” idea tackled food waste and empowered young adults.

Listen in to our members on the frontline of food redistribution from the Fareshare Headquarters as the share insights into how they tackle food waste and insecurity

We had two fantastic days at the ‘Nature Makes Sense’ events in Grange Park Omagh, and Smiths Strand, Lisnaskea. Hosted by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, the events were all about making the great outdoors accessible for children and adults with special educational needs and neurodivergence.

In this episode, we’re joined by three powerhouse leaders in Northern Ireland’s charity retail space: Michael Holmes from Hope 365, Anne Crossan from SVP, and Linda McKendy from Compass Advocacy Network. We’re going behind the storefront to discover how these organisations formed into chic boutiques, furniture upcycling hubs, and vital training centres. From driving the local circular economy to navigating the ‘fast fashion’ waste crisis, we explore how these shops do so much more than sell clothes; they fight poverty, support disability rights, and create local employment. Are they retailers, or are they the heartbeat of the community? The answer is: they’re both. Let’s dive into the true impact of charity retail.”

In this episode, our guests discuss how toy libraries reduce waste and promote a circular economy. They highlight the joy of seeing toys find new life across multiple families and the deep social connections formed through communal sharing. They also offer a candid look at the realities of the libraries, including the ongoing need for physical space, dedicated volunteers and sustainable funding. Listen now to discover how sharing toys fights waste and overspending and can transform local communities.

We all have things that are “made to break.” These Repair Cafes are a powerful reminder to value what we have and give these resources a second life. Got something that needs a little TLC? Bring it down to the next session! You’ll get a fix, a cuppa, and a great chat. Let’s make repair the first choice!

Zero Waste Schools – 12 schools participated in this pioneering pilot programme. The first of its kind in N. Ireland, the Zero Waste Schools participated in a series of practical workshops covering topics such as food waste, waste diversion, stitching skills and challenging textile waste with our partnering organisations – ⁠Tools For Solidarity⁠, ⁠FareShare Northern Ireland⁠, ⁠Habitat for Humanity Ireland⁠ and ⁠#ostrero⁠. This unique programme has the ambitious target of reducing consumption and introducing young people to reuse and repair as an alternative to landfill and recycling. Educating and empowering pupils about sustainability and waste reduction!

Rathlin, where resources are limited and the ability to repair and reuse items invaluable. As part of the Future Island Island project Fixers from all over N. Ireland worked alongside Islanders reimagining the potential of broken items – a  memorable step towards a more sustainable future.