Community Development

 

David Hume became involved in his local community group when he was in his early 20s and his passion to change his community in a positive way has never been quenched. He has spearheaded the development of his local community as well as being involved in a variety of other groups and committees. His long-standing experience over 30 years has provided many examples of how to progress and what pitfalls to avoid.

 

If your group is at the stage where it is about to develop a project or needs the support and advice of someone experienced in community issues and development, then the consultancy can offer an unparalleled opportunity for you.

 

David Hume has spearhead applications for grants over the years which have realised over half a million pounds for projects in his local community, including a new community centre, the longest-established Ulster Scots festival in Northern Ireland, heritage and tourism projects and other schemes.

He is available to assist community and other groups with the following;

 

Development Plans to assist your community or group identify its priorities for several years ahead

 

• Business plans to progress community development and assist with grant applications or general development
  
  
• Grant applications, including completion of application forms, advice on project promotion and advice on suitable funding bodies to apply to
  
  
• Providing workshops on community development, media training, group structures, project development, and approaching funders
  
  
• Assistance with specific projects within the community or which a group wishes to organise

 

 

 

Case Studies

 

Broadisland Gathering Festival Development

 

Dr. David Hume was the brains behind the longest-established Ulster Scots festival in Northern Ireland, the Broadisland Gathering; he combined his idea with the idea of co-founder Valerie Beattie to revive the old village fair in the community. The festival developed over the years to include a pageant parade featuring the only townland banner parade in the world, the cream of Ulster Scots musical talent, historical bus tours, exhibitions, and re-enactments which make for a great family day out. The festival has been praised by government ministers for its inclusiveness and is a showcase of Ulster Scots culture and heritage which welcomes all.  The first Gathering was held on a shoestring budget of £1500, now it requires an average of ten times that amount to stage and visitor numbers have been up to 5,000 to 6,000 people.

 

The Gathering has had a major economic benefit to the local area, to groups and to traders. It has also put Ballycarry village on the map and ensured that visitors travel there at different times of the year.  Lastly, it has greatly boosted community confidence and ensured that everyone takes a pride in their community.

 

Orr Monument Restoration Scheme

 

David Hume was concerned at the continuing deterioration of the Orr Memorial in Ballycarry, which commemorates the foremost of the Ulster Weaver poets, James Orr, and was erected in 1831. This proved an arduous and difficult project owing to various complications but it was finally steered to a successful conclusion in 2014, with a £40,000 restoration scheme being carried out and a further £20,000 having been spent on a leaflet and website on Orr and the Weaver’s Trail in the village as well as a walking tour leaflet. The Project also brought together the local community group and the Masonic Order in County Antrim and Ballycarry as partners in the scheme.