A new community forum for Antrim and Newtownabbey has met for the first time, bringing together representatives from across the borough to discuss priorities and shape future council strategies.

The Borough-Wide Community Forum includes 28 nominated representatives from community and voluntary organisations in each of the seven District Electoral Areas, along with groups working across the whole borough. Volunteer Now is involved in an advisory role.

At the inaugural meeting, members were introduced to the forum's purpose, roles and responsibilities. Wendy Kerr and Kathy Wolff were appointed as co-chairs to guide the forum's work.

The forum builds on existing DEA community forums and will meet quarterly. It forms part of the WEAVE initiative, delivered through the PEACEPLUS Local Community Action Plan, which has received £445,658.09 for nine strands of activity aimed at building stronger and more connected communities.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan, said the first meeting was an exciting step in strengthening the voice of communities and ensuring local people can help shape the future of the borough. He said the forum would help build relationships, encourage partnership working, and ensure community priorities are heard.

Separately, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is running a Leid Week programme to celebrate Ulster-Scots heritage in November. Events include an informal language session at Greystone Library on 11 November, an Ulster-Scots community celebration at Ballyclare Town Hall on 19 November, and a closing celebration at Mossley Mill on 24 November for participants of learning programmes.

The programme also includes an OCN Level 1 in Ulster-Scots Awareness, a six-week conversational language course, a poetry workshop for secondary school pupils, and children's storytelling sessions. The council will produce two videos promoting Ulster-Scots words and the importance of Leid Week.

Mayor Cushinan encouraged residents to get involved and discover more about the shared heritage. Further details are available on the council website.