Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is seeking a delivery team to run a year-long programme aimed at sustaining and strengthening cross-community relations across the district.
What the programme will do
The council has put out an open call for a team to lead the Collaborative Interaction Programme, which is funded through the PEACEPLUS initiative. The chosen provider will be responsible for delivering seven standalone projects, one in each District Electoral Area (DEA), designed to build on work undertaken in previous PEACE-funded activity and council-led engagement.
Work is scheduled to run from 1 September 2026 until 31 August 2027. Activity will include structured contact, facilitated dialogue and capacity building to help communities:
- identify issues affecting them locally;
- create safe spaces for conversation;
- address behaviours or tensions that may exclude people because of religion, race or other identity factors;
- encourage participation from groups less engaged in peace-building, particularly those affected by contested spaces.
Application details and objectives
The council emphasises the programme's role in contributing to the removal of both psychological and physical barriers to social cohesion and in promoting long-term reconciliation. It aims to reach individuals and communities who have historically been less involved in peace-building activities.
Organisations interested in delivering the programme must register interest by the council's enquiry deadline of 29 July 2026, with tenders required to be submitted by 5 August 2026 via the council's procurement portal.
| Item | Date / Detail |
|---|---|
| Programme duration | 1 Sept 2026 – 31 Aug 2027 |
| Number of projects | 7 (one per DEA) |
| Enquiry deadline | 29 July 2026 |
| Tender submission | 5 August 2026 (Login To MultiQuote) |
Local impact and expectations
The programme is intended to be practical and locally rooted. By concentrating activity in each DEA the council expects to nurture relationships, rebuild trust where strains exist and equip community members with skills to manage disagreements without resorting to exclusionary behaviour. Delivery partners will be expected to demonstrate an ability to work sensitively in contested environments and to engage groups who have not traditionally participated in peace-building.
For community organisations and voluntary groups considering a bid, the council's timetable leaves limited time for preparation. Applicants should ensure they meet procurement requirements and can evidence past experience in facilitation, community engagement and reconciliation work.
Further information and submission details are available through the council's procurement portal referenced in the tender notice.
