Belfast!

Welcome to The Agency Belfast, run by New Lodge Arts in North Belfast.

Every year we run programmes aimed at empowering young people to become the creative leaders and change makers of their communities.

Applications for 2025 is now open, you can use the form below to apply.

For further information please contact Orla Hawkins at orla.hawkins@ashtoncentre.com

New Lodge Arts

Ashton Centre,
5 Churchill St,
Belfast
BT15 2BP

Applications Now Open

Name

All information will be kept strictly confidential and will not be shared beyond The Agency.

First Name

Last Name

Phone

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Postcode

Who's Applying?

We welcome applications from young people, and also parents/carers applying on behalf of a young person. Please select the option that best describes you.

Where did you hear about The Agency?

Projects created by previous Agents

Seed 2 Plate

Abi Flannigan and Aoife Teer This project aims to educate young people about the benefits of gardening, focusing on how it can enhance mental health and help regulate emotions. Using gardening as a therapeutic tool, the project took place across local schools, community groups, teaching practical skills to others, fostering a positive impact within the community.
New Heights

Maggie Walsh and Natalia Borysowski New Heights combined reconnecting with nature and raising awareness about drug and alcohol use through hiking. Participants engaged in a balanced mix of hikes, informational sessions, and team-building activities focused on substance awareness. Led by The Agents alongside professionals, the hikes were well-attended and had many people experiencing hiking for the first time. The project offered a fresh, engaging approach to promoting healthy choices and outdoor exploration.
Rise Above the Ashes

Sophie Rossbotham & Grace Rogan Rise Above the Ashes is designed to help young people, aged 10-13, build confidence, resilience, and friendships after experiencing bullying. Aimed at those transitioning from primary to secondary school, the project used art and creativity as a means of self-expression and healing. Participants engaged in a variety of creative workshops, including journaling, drama, and visual arts, alongside teambuilding activities and social outings. Each session provided a supportive space for them to express themselves, connect with peers, and grow together.
H.A.L.T

Aimee and Cara This podcast amplifies the experiences of families and individuals navigating terminal illness and grief. It creates space for open conversations, fostering connection and support.
Silent Struggles

Ashleigh and Máire Through a podcast, this project tackles the stigma surrounding eating disorders. It features personal stories and expert advice to highlight the importance of discussing these often-overlooked mental health challenges. Listen here
Rewritten Narratives

Leona and Brogan A short film addressing mental health and social issues, this project will empower young people in North Belfast by showing that their voices matter, especially in communities where many feel unheard.
Boldly You

Moly and Mia A resource hub to support young girls facing bullying. The website fosters resilience, confidence, and self-esteem through workshops, videos, downloadable guides, and inspirational stories. Learn more about Boldly You here

Community Research

The community-based research initiative within The Agency project aims to deepen our understanding of the communities in which we run the programme, including Belfast, Chester, London, Manchester and Southampton. By engaging in hyper-local research, we aim to identify the most pressing needs, challenges and opportunities within these communities. The insights gained inform the development of projects by young people, ensuring they are rooted in the specific needs and aspirations of their communities.

This report focuses on North Belfast-specific findings, offering a detailed look at the challenges and opportunities shaping this vibrant community. To explore insights from other locations, click here to view all reports.

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