UN Sustainable Development Goals
Learn more about our commitment to nurturing a culture of sustainability and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This activity relates to the following SDGs:
Activities
Tackling Local Health Inequalities in South Belfast
A joint initiative led by Queen’s University Belfast and Donegall Pass Community Enterprises (DPCE) addresses persistent health inequalities in South Belfast by enhancing access to essential services. Drawing on successful models across Northern Ireland, the Directory captures 126 local services, including welfare advice, education, family support, health, wellbeing, food banks, substance misuse support, and more, making them easily discoverable for residents, practitioners, and students.
The Directory responds to survey findings indicating that half of residents were unaware of available services, and one-third lacked clarity on how to access them. It supports 42 local and regional organisations that contributed information, streamlining service coordination and boosting individual awareness.
Tackling Local Health Inequalities in South Belfast
DPCE worked alongside statutory, voluntary, and community organisations to create a user-friendly design. To maximise reach, the Directory has been distributed in both print (400 compact editions, including at Donegall Pass Resident Group) and digital formats (150 QR-coded posters across South Belfast).
By mapping available resources, identifying overlaps and gaps, and facilitating strategic partnerships, including strengthened ties with Queen’s Neighbourhood Engagement Team, this resource enhances community resilience and health equity, increases uptake of local provisions and wupports more equitable distribution of support across the area.
Some individuals who have recieved the resource commented positively. For example Kelly Faith, a Social Worker with the Belfast Trust said:
“I received one of the compact books with the service directory. These had been given out at Donegall Pass Resident Group. They are a great guide and very helpful.”
Sarah Jane, a Community Health Worker from Forward South Partnership also commented:
“A huge congratulations on the directory! It is no small task and is a very helpful resource to those I support.”
We thank all partners and local residents for their support and look forward to continued collaboration, particularly with Queen’s Neighbourhood Engagement Team, to tackle pressing local issues and strengthen civic society across South Belfast.