Cavan Community ENews 3.4.26
- 3 days ago
- 25 min read
Updated: 3 minutes ago
Welcome to your weekly ENews. Our news is compiled weekly from our over 500 member groups (564 as of this week!), partner agencies and funders. The deadline for submitting to cavanppn@gmail.com is noon Wednesdays and we can only take community focused news. Please note that views/items contained within our ENews may not reflect the values/policies of CavanPPN.
Many Thanks, The CavanPPN Team (Aisling, Finian & Daniel). info@cavanppn.ie, CavanPPN, CCLD, Corlurgan, Cavan. H12 X9Y1
CONTENTS (Shaded are new items this week, but all are still relevant/in date)
FUNDING
1. FUNDING: Media Literacy & Disinformation
2. FUNDING: AI For Good Fund
3. FUNDING: Six Open Calls & Opportunities Locally
4. FUNDING: Community & Voluntary Grant Scheme 5. FUNDING: Festival & Events Grant Scheme
6. FUNDING: LEADER Programme Open 7. FUNDING: Cruinniu na nOg 2026
8. FUNDING: LGBTIQ+ Fund
9. FUNDING: Community Centre Investment Fund
TRAINING
10. TRAINING: Quit Smoking Course
11. TRAINING: Healthy Food Made Easy
12. TRAINING: New Community Training Courses for PPN Groups
13. TRAINING: Free Data Analytics Training
14. TRAINING: Cycle Against Suicide Training
15. TRAINING: Cavan Arts Festival Carnical School 2026
SURVEYS/CONSULTS 16.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: AI Discovery Survey
17.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Squirrel & Pine Marten All Ireland Survey 18. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Community, Enterprise & Volunteering Survey 19.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Diversifying Sports Volunteering 20.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Geopark, Your Community, Your Say 21.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Healthy Ireland Framework
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS
22. Tidy Towns Awards 23. Cavan Outdoor Recreation Forum Next Meeting 24. Be Part of Make Way Day 25. Open Call For Community Services Programme 26. StreetFeast 2026 27. Refresh & Refocus Wellbeing Event 28. Discuss Rural Isolation in Swanlinbar 29- SunSmart 2026 Campaign 30- Cavan Craft Collective Accepting New Members
31- Let's Talk About Health Literacy 32 Improved Care for Older LGBTQIA+ People 33 Zoom For Hedgehog Enthusiasts 34- Invasive Species Inititiative for Cavan Communities 35- Nature Ireland's New Digital Hub
36- Calling Adult Educators Supporting Older Adults... 37- Save the Date: Cavan Community Summer Conference June 27th 38- Community Services Programme Open
FUNDING
Media Literacy & Disinformation
Media Literacy and Countering Disinformation projects in 2026 - 13th Apr
Coimisiún na Meán has issued a call for submissions for funding to support Media Literacy and Countering Disinformation projects in 2026.
Media literacy describes a critical set of skills and knowledge that people need to navigate a complex
information environment. At the heart of media literacy is the ability to understand and critically evaluate media content - whatever the source - in order to make an informed decision about the use of media. These critical thinking skills are also at the heart of maintaining information integrity and media literacy is increasingly being recognised as a tool for helping to counter disinformation.
Deadline: 13th April 2026
More info: https://www.cnam.ie/media-literacy-countering-disinformation-call-for-submissions/
2. AI For Good Fund
Deadline 15th Apr
The AI for Good Fund is a capacity-building initiative to empower the nonprofit, social enterprise, community, and voluntary sectors, with the outcome of amplifying missions, strengthening communities, and advancing social innovation across Ireland.
This new initiative, with support from Google.org and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, will build pathways for responsible AI learning and adoption in Ireland. This is a €1.5 million total investment, with €750,000 matched by the government via the Dormant Accounts Fund.
Rethink Ireland want to hear from you on how best to tailor this project to harness AI in ethical, inclusive and impactful ways, to suit your needs.
This survey asks about your organisation profile, your current level of AI knowledge, understanding, and adoption in the workplace setting, and provides space for questions about AI technology that you might have.
At the end of the survey, you will have the exclusive opportunity to register interest for “Discovery Days,” a series of free, experiential AI learning workshops to be held nationwide across Ireland in 2026.
Deadline: 15th April 2026
3. Six Open Calls & Opportunities Locally
OPEN CALLS & OPPORTUNITIES 2026–2027
Six opportunities are now open for artists, youth groups, drama practitioners and creative communities across County Cavan.
Please share widely!
Townhall Arts Centre Gallery – Exhibition Proposals
Open to emerging, mid‑career & established artists in all visual artforms. Includes a €1,000 bursary.
Deadline: 24 April, 5pm
Townhall Arts Centre & Cavan Arts Studio Awards 2026–2027
3‑month studio residencies with a €6,000 bursary for professional artists.
Seeking work exploring contemporary culture, Cavan themes, or interdisciplinary practice.
Deadline: 24 April, 5pm
Ramor Arts Centre Gallery – Exhibition Proposals 2026–2027
Open to artists at all stages; selected on artistic merit, clarity and feasibility.
Deadline: 24 April, 5pm
Cavan & Monaghan Youth Arts Bursary 2026 – €1,600 Awards
Six bursaries (3 per county) for youth arts projects with a professional artist.
Deadline: 24 April, 5pm
Apply:https://www.youth.ie/.../cavan-monaghan-youth-arts... applications/
Cavan Co. Co. DLI Summer School Scholarships 2026
Two full residential scholarships for the DLI Summer School, UL (1–8 Aug 2026).
Includes tuition, accommodation & meals. Must already be booked on a course.
Deadline: 24 April, 5pm
Info: Drama League of Ireland – Summer School
Arts & Disability Connect – Round Two
Awards for artists with disabilities: New Work, Mentoring, Training & Research.
Deadline: 12 May, 4pm
Live Q&A: 1 April, 12–1pm
4. Community & Voluntatry Grant Scheme 2026 Open
Community & Voluntary Grant Scheme 2026
The members of Cavan County Council have created a funding scheme in each of the three Municipal District areas for the purpose of supporting community groups in delivering and promoting projects in their areas such as small-scale amenity projects, purchase of equipment for community halls/groups, and materials, etc.
5. Festival & events Grant Scheme
Festival and Events Grant Scheme 2026
13 Mar 2026
The Festival and Events Grant Scheme provides financial assistances to groups and organisations engaged in festivals or events at a local level.
The emphasis of the scheme is on providing funding for a diverse range of projects thus ensuring that the limited financial resources available are used to the maximum benefit of the community at large. The maximum grant will not exceed €1,000.
How to apply
Eligible groups can apply online at https://submit.link/4MD.
Please note that this scheme is retrospective. The festival or event must be between the period of 1st April 2026 –31st December 2026.
Please use the links provided to access the application form and any queries should be directed to Kimberly Tweedie on 049 437 8588 or by email ktweedie@cavancoco.ie
6. LEADER Programme OPEN
Cavan LEADER Programme 2023 - 2027 is OPEN and
accepting ‘Expressions of Interest’.
Unlock Funding Opportunities for Your
Community, Youth or Environmental
Project Today!
Cavan LEADER funding is available locally for community and other
voluntary groups to apply for support for a range of possible projects to a
maximum of €200,000 on an ongoing basis until the budget is exhausted.
In order to decipher if your project is eligible to progress to application
stage, FULLY complete an ‘expression of interest’ form and send to CCLD.
Submit your ‘expression of interest’ form now for funding to support your
community initiatives and make a difference. Full details on Cavan LEADER
23-27 and ‘expression of interest’ form is available from this link
https://www.ccld.ie/apply-for-leader-funding or the QR code below.
7. Cruinniú na nÓG 2026
Cruinniú na nÓg 2026
Local Authorities (LAs) around the country are inviting artists, creators, schools, youth groups, and community organisations to apply for funding to create amazing projects and events for Cruinniú na nÓg 2026—Ireland’s national day of free creative activity for children and young people happening on Saturday, 6th June 2026.
Deadline: Varies according to Local Authority. We have included in our newsletter over the past while and removed any where the deadline has passed. However in case we missed any check with your LA if in doubt.
More info: https://cruinniu.gov.ie/ Contact your LA for funding details in your area.
8- LGBTIQ+ Fund
2026 LGBTIQ+ Community Services Funding Call
There are two streams of funding under the LGBTIQ+ Community Services Fund:
Scheme A is open to applications from existing LGBTIQ+ NGOs and community organisations working with the LGBTIQ+ community to support new initiatives and to maintain and enhance existing services and initiatives.
Scheme B will provide small grants to organisations for projects that promote visibility and inclusion of LGBTIQ+ persons.
Deadline: 30 Apr
9- Community Centre Investment Fund
Minister Dara Calleary announces details of €25 million Community Centre Investment Fund
· Fund will focus on upgrade and enhancement works to existing community centres nationwide
· Funding of up to €100,000 available for refurbishment works
Range of supports in place to assist community groups in developing high quality applications
The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has today, 26th March 2026, announced a fourth round of funding under the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF).
The focus of the Community Centres Investment Fund 2026 – Refurbishment, is to support upgrade and enhancement works to existing community centres nationwide. This fund builds on the success of the CCIF 2022 & 2024 which provided funding of over €80m for almost 1,650 community centre refurbishment projects. Funding of over €30 million has also been provided to build 12 new centres.
The Community Centre Investment Fund 2026 – Refurbishment will provide grants for projects from €10,000 up to a maximum of €100,000 towards capital costs. This is broken down into two categories of funding:
Category 1:
Small scale projects/improvements to facilities: €10,000 - €25,000 (95% funding)
Category 2:
Larger scale projects: €25,001 to €100,000 (90% funding)
All applicants must register as 'users' on the online portal here in advance of the application process which will open in late May. Groups that applied for this fund previously will not need to register again but should check that their details are still correct.
Groups are advised to get their application and paperwork ready in advance of the online application process opening at the end of May. The closing date for applications will be 13th July.
The Department will be running a series of information sessions in advance of the application opening date to assist in the preparation of applications.
All materials to support applicants including template application form, guidelines, FAQ document and details on information sessions can be found at the Department of Rural & Community Development and the Gaeltacht website here.
Community facilities can be defined as a building that is managed by a community-based organisation which is open to and used by a broad range of individuals and groups within the local community for group activities such as social events, information/supports and recreation.
The Community Centre Investment Fund 2026- Refurbishment will provide grants as follows:
Category 1: Small scale projects/improvements to facilities €10,000 - €25,000.
A minimum of 5% of the total project budget is required by the applicant as match funding.
Category 2: Larger scale projects €25,001 to €100,000.
A minimum of 10% of the total project budget is required by the applicant as match funding.
Funding is available for capital works such as:
Costs associated with building/renovation works (e.g. materials for extension, refurbishment, modernisation, flooring electrical and plumbing)
Costs associated with acquisition, installation or replacement of equipment which form an integral part of a building e.g., kitchen units, worktops, sinks, bathroom fittings etc.
Costs associated with improving the energy efficiency of the building.
Rental costs of equipment required for the project e.g., diggers, cement mixers, etc.
Professional fees such as architects, quantity surveyors etc., up to a maximum of 12.5% of the total project costs for both grant categories.
Labour costs for registered tradespeople such as builders, plasterers, decorators, plumbers, electricians etc., as necessary for the completion of the project.
Purchase costs of equipment necessary for the ongoing success of the project following completion e.g. kitchen appliances for a kitchen renovation project, improved lighting, sound systems, stage, curtains, installation of a lift to improve assess for disabled people, tables, chairs, catering equipment, sensory equipment, sensory rooms and pool tables/tennis tables for youth areas.
Improvements to facilities which are necessary to meet fire safety and building regulations e.g. lining of walls and floors, escape routes, wiring, sockets, electrical switches and distribution boards, gas tanks, gas burning flues, heating systems and appliances.
Fire safety equipment e.g. fire doors, fire alarm system, protected escape stairways, smoke alarms and CO2 alarms.
Upgrade works on electrical, gas and heating appliances to ensure they meet regulations and standards.
Direct costs associated with improving accessibility for disabled users or those with mobility issues.
Outdoor lighting to improve the safety of the immediate environs of buildings and/or parking area but not floodlights for walkways or pitches.
External storage e.g. for storage of tables, chairs, equipment etc
Internal/external painting which includes the exterior of the building, storage sheds and boundary walls.
Outdoor signage (Signed fixed to the building and/or standalone signage and must include Irish translation)
Toilets and showers within the community centre
Applicants are asked to register their organisation in advance of the application process opening on 29th May:
Groups can access the portal immediately and register their group. Groups that applied for this fund previously will not need to register again but are advised to check that their details are still correct.
The application process will open at the end of May.
The closing date for applications will be July 13th, 2026.
Online information sessions, clinics and support events will be held in April, May, June and July 2026. Check with DRCDG Website here for further details and links for registering for the upcoming information events and application clinics.
TRAINING
10- Quit Smoking Course
11- Healthy Food Made Easy
12- Free Community Training For CavanPPN members Cavan PPN currently has a number of training courses available to our member groups.
They are available FREE OF CHARGE for member groups.
All the courses are online and places are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Your Move: A Women's Leadership Framework for Today
Upcoming Training:
A-Z of Data Protection – Becoming & Remaining Compliant with GDPR
Cavan PPN provides access to a number of other training opportunities, all focused on community & voluntary groups/organisations. For more information, please click here.
(Please note: you must be part of a member group of Cavan PPN to avail of these training courses).
For more information, and to register, please click on the link below: Events | Cavan PPN | Public Participation Network
13- Free Training for Small Businesses FREE TRAINING -
Introduction to Data Analytics for Small Businesses
Cavan County Council is a Partner of the DS3 Project which is supported by the
PEACEPLUS Programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body. The
aim of this project is to improve Digital/ICT awareness and skills in rural communities
through training, mentoring and engagement with ICT solutions. The project is aimed
in particular at business communities (SME’s and Micro’s) and civic society
(community and voluntary organisations).
Under the DS3 project a free online workshop is available to support small and
micro businesses with an Introduction to Data Analytics has been developed and is
open for registration:
Introduction to Data Analytics for Small Business Success
�� 26th March | 12.00 – 1.00pm
�� Online (Microsoft Teams)
Register now: DS3 Workshop - Introduction to Data Analytics for Small Business -
Registration – Fill in form
14 Cycle Against Suicide Training
Cycle Against Suicide is offering free training in Mental Health Peer Support on:
April 2026: Wed 22nd & Thurs 23rd
May 2026: Tues 12th & Wed 13th
June 2026: Tues 9th & Wed 10th
Time: 9.30am-5pm on both days
Delivery: LIVE online via Zoom
Cost: currently delivered free of charge
CPD: 13.5 points
For more information and to register, please visit https://www.cycleagainstsuicide.com/workplace-wellbeing-peer-support-programme/
15 Cavan Arts Festival Carnival School 2026
Cavan Arts Festival Carnival School 2026
Drum it, dance it, make it, move it, step into the Carnival spirit this spring with Cavan Arts Festival’s free Carnival School workshops!
Running throughout April and May, Carnival School is a unique opportunity to get involved in a series of creative, hands-on workshops led by experienced artists. Choose from samba drumming, live music, movement, circus skills and creative making, and try something new in a fun and welcoming environment. These workshops are all about creativity, connection and enjoying the process.
Participants will also have the opportunity to take part in the Cavan Arts Festival celebrations this May, bringing colour, rhythm and energy to the town.
Workshops are free of charge, designed for adult participation, and places are limited.
Register your interest: admin@cavanartsfestival.ie
Stay tuned via our Website
SURVEYS/CONSULTATIONS
16- AI Discovery Survey
Rethink Ireland is developing a new capacity-building initiative (AI for Good Fund) to empower the nonprofit, social enterprise, community, and voluntary sectors in Ireland.
To make sure this work truly supports the sector, we would love to hear from you.
We’re inviting workers and volunteers to complete our (brief) AI Discovery Survey (approx. 5 minutes). The survey is available in both English and Irish, and open for responses till April 15. Your invaluable insights will help shape how AI can be harnessed in ethical, inclusive, and impactful ways.
Here’s the link:
English: AI Discovery Survey
Irish: Suirbhé Follasaithe IS
These responses will help us discover priority needs and identify overall trends, informing the capacity-building resources which we will develop over the coming months. The more voices represented in the survey will result in more impactful, relevant shared resources.
We would be grateful if you could please share this survey with colleagues and others within your network by:
Sharing the survey link with your member organisations
Reposting on your LinkedIn account: link here to the LinkedIn post
Include a short mention of the survey in your next newsletter or email bulletin
Those who complete the survey will have the exclusive opportunity to register interest in our “Discovery Days,” a series of free AI learning workshops taking place nationwide in 2026.
Thank you for your support - every voice from across the sector makes a difference! p
17- Squirrel & Pine Marten Survey
We invite members of the public to assist with a new survey throughout 2026, to investigate the distribution of squirrels and the pine marten in Ireland. The National Biodiversity Data Centre has teamed up with University of Galway, Ulster Wildlife and Vincent Wildlife Trust in this research, which follows similar surveys conducted in 2007, 2012 and 2019. Since their introduction in 1911, the grey squirrel has spread throughout a large area of the island of Ireland. The red squirrel, impacted by competition and disease spread by the greys, has previously struggled and retracted in range as a result. In the most recent surveys in 2012 and 2019, however, the grey squirrel had been knocked back in certain areas, and this has been attributed to the recovery of another native species, the pine marten. In 2019, the red squirrel had recovered in some areas in the midlands, however, the grey squirrel continued to spread in the southwest and northwest.
Please submit sightings of red squirrels, grey squirrels and pine martens via the online record form, and include a photograph, if you have one.
18- Community, Enterprise & Volunteering Survey
Dear PPN Leaders,
Given your roles in communities across Ireland, I would like to ask a favour of you please if I may … 5 minutes of your time to contribute to research which is highly relevant for the community and social economy sector in Ireland.
Community Enterprise Association Ireland (CEAI) is leading IMPACT – Integrating reMote Professionals for Action in Community Transformation, a new Erasmus+ project that aims to connect remote professionals, as volunteers, with social enterprises and voluntary groups across Ireland, helping to strengthen local efforts and impact for community-based activities and projects.
We are asking leaders and decision-makers of social enterprise and community organisations across Ireland to complete a short survey (link below) to help us shape tools and supports that will drive these connections for long-term and sustainable benefit to community-based activities.
Survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/IMPACT_Ireland_SE
Please also share this link with the community groups you engage with; we are encouraging as many relevant organisations and groups as we can reach to respond so that we can capture a strong response from the sector.
Le dea-ghuí,
With my best wishes,
Siobhán Finn
CEO
Community Enterprise Association Ireland
Tel: + 353 86 2872286
Email: siobhan@ceai.ie
19- Diversifying Sports Volunteering
As you know the consultation for the Diversify the Volunteer Base in Sport Insights Report is now underway. S3 Solutions are delighted to have been appointed by Sport Ireland to undertake this important research study, which aims to broaden the volunteer base.
The input of individuals (both volunteering and non-volunteering) from across the country is vital to inform the development of this research, which will directly influence practice within the sports sector at a local, regional and national level. We would deeply appreciate your assistance in raising awareness of the digital survey across your network of volunteers and any stakeholder organisations within your network who serve the needs of underrepresented groups, such as Women, People with Disabilities, Ethnic Minorities, LGBTQI+, Traveller/Roma Communities, Youth, and Older People.We are really keen to see the views of those currently volunteering and those who face barriers to volunteering reflected in the report recommendations.
This survey will provide us with insights into the experience of volunteers and non-volunteers as well as underrepresented groups which improve our understanding of the barriers to participation and the value gained from participation in volunteering also. It will take approximately 8 minutes to complete. The survey can be accessed via the following link and will close on Monday 13th April 2026 at 5pm.
Information in relation to how this data is used is included in the introduction to the survey, please read this and if you have any questions about the survey or the process please do not hesitate to ask.
S3 Solutions and Sport Ireland would like to express their thanks in advance to everyone who completes the survey, sharing insights and recommendations which will help to increase diversity within the volunteer base.
20- Your Community Your Say on YOUR Geopark
Calling All Community Voices of the Geopark
Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark spans the stunning landscapes of Fermanagh & Cavan, from ancient caves and towering cliffs to peaceful woodlands and lakelands shaped over 895 million years. With over 10,000 years of cultural heritage, this place is alive with stories.
We’re creating a brand new Community Plan, and we want your voice at its heart.
Share what matters to you, heritage, environment, tourism, signage, future projects, community wellbeing & more.
Join our community drop in sessions. Have your say. Help shape the future of our Geopark.
21- Healthy Ireland Framework
The Department of Health is currently undertaking a public consultation on the new Healthy Ireland Framework. They are inviting organisations and their networks to share their views and help shape the future direction of health and wellbeing policy in Ireland. The consultation is open until 22nd of April and submissions can be made online via the following link:
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS
22- Tidy Towns Awards
Groups from across the North West Region gathered in Carrick On Shannon on Monday night last to celebrate the 2025 Tidy Towns Competition Awards.
The following Cavan groups were awarded their respective accolades on the night:
Cavan Tidy Towns: Gold medal winner for Cavan and Pollinator Award for the region
Killeshandra Tidy Towns: Silver medal winner for Cavan
Redhills Tidy Towns: Bronze medal winner for Cavan
Shercock Tidy Towns: Endeavour Award for County Cavan and Regional and National Gum Litter Awards
Attachment 1:
L to R: Teresa Walsh (Cavan Tidy Towns) Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and An Gaeltacht, Martin Connolly (Cavan Tidy Towns), Maighread Cremin, Community & Sponsorship Manager with SuperValu and Paul Lynch (Cavan Tidy Towns).
Attachment 2:
L to R: Una Feeney (Killeshandra Tidy Towns), Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and An Gaeltacht, Anne Shanley (Killeshandra Tidy Towns), Maighread Cremin Community & Sponsorship Manager with SuperValu and Therese Teevan (Killeshandra Tidy Towns)
Attachment 3:
Leo R: Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and An Gaeltacht and Carol Smyth (Shercock Tidy Towns).
23- Cavan Outdoor Recreation Forum Next Meeting
24- Be Part of Make Way Day
Make Way Day is a DFI public awareness campaign, highlighting everyday obstacles that block the way of people with disabilities across Ireland. Make Way Day is not about pointing the finger at local authorities, ESB or other agencies, but about raising awareness of barriers that are within the public’s power to change.
Common obstacles include:
Cars parked on footpaths
Wheelie bins, kegs, and sandwich boards on footpaths
Overgrown hedges
Bikes tied to lampposts or railings
These barriers can prevent people from moving safely around their communities and can lead to isolation. As one disability campaigner explained, encountering repeated obstacles can make people feel they have no option but to turn back or stay at home. Sometimes obstacles can even put people in danger as they may have to leave the footpath to go around them.
The message of Make Way Day is simple:
“Hey, this blocks my way!”
By highlighting these issues, the campaign encourages greater awareness of everyday actions that can make public spaces more accessible for everyone.
Each year on 29 May, people with disabilities and their supporters take part in a national day of action, placing easy to ‘peel-off’ stickers on obstacles they encounter. Photos are shared on social media using #MakeWayDay. It is not the policy of the campaign to highlight car registration numbers or identifiable information. When sharing photographs these should be blanked out.
The campaign continues to grow, with strong support from local authorities, national and local media coverage, and backing from An Garda Síochána, who also launch their own campaign, Operation Enable on the same day.
Make Way Day brings together the disability community and the wider public for one clear, coordinated day of action to create awareness leading to more accessible communities.
We hope you can get involved on 29 May.
If you require stickers or other items please contact irenachuchuligin@disability-federation.ie by 15 May.
25- Open Call for Community Services Programme
Minister Jerry Buttimer announces Open Call for the Community Service Programme
Call for applications under the Community Services Programme (CSP)
Programme benefits groups providing services and creating employment for disadvantaged communities
Meets a Programme for Government commitment to open the programme to new entrants
Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD has today, (Monday, 30th March 2026) announced an Open Call for Applications under the Community Services Programme (CSP). The CSP Programme currently supports over 420 community-based organisations.
The overarching vision of the CSP Programme is to support community organisations that operate to deliver a social purpose, to offer services that meet identified needs and provide employment locally contributing to sustainable, inclusive and empowered communities.
Fulfilling a commitment made in the Programme for Government, this successful programme is now being opened to new entrants. It will provide community-based organisations with an opportunity to access funding to support the employment of staff, in line with the programme’s objectives and principles.
Pobal will provide support to organisations interested in making a preliminary application to join the CSP Programme from today until the closing date for applications on 8th May 2026.
Following submission of a preliminary application that meets all eligible criteria, shortlisted applicants will then be invited to submit a full application to Pobal by 28th August 2026.
Information Events will be held for successful applicants applying for the programme on the week beginning 27th July 2026. This will ensure those applying to the CSP Programme are fully equipped with the information that they need to apply for this funding. Details will be shared on the Pobal CSP webpage and on the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht’s website and social media channels.
For more info visit here
Community Services Programme
The Community Services Programme (CSP) currently supports 445 community-based services via 426 organisations, to provide local social, economic and environmental services through a social enterprise model.
The CSP Programme, which is not aligned to the minimum wage, provides a funding contribution towards the cost of Full Time Equivalent (FTE) positions and, where warranted, manager positions. The funding provided is not intended to meet the full salary cost of supported posts. Qualifying applicants must be social enterprises capable of generating income from their activities in order to meet the full salary costs of the supported posts, for example, from income received from the public use of facilities and services. The CSP contribution supports organisations to meet local service gaps and provide access to services and facilities that would generally be unavailable.
As of February 2026, there are 350 Managers and 1,718 FTEs currently being supported under the Programme. The current CSP Programme commenced in January 2023 and will cease in December 2027. The CSP Programme is administered by Pobal on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
A further nine organisations who were waitlisted following the last Open Call, are in the process of joining the Programme.
The current iteration of the CSP Programme runs from 2023 to 2027.
The strategic objectives of the CSP Programme are:
To address community needs through supporting services and community assets ensuring these are inclusive and responsive to those experiencing disadvantage or marginalisation.
To provide employment opportunities and improve the employability of individuals most distant from the labour market/or in disadvantaged areas.
To strengthen and support community organisations operating as social enterprises to deliver improved facilities and services and to pilot innovative social economy initiatives.
The horizontal principles of the Programme are:
Promoting social inclusion and equality
Building sustainable communities
26- Street Feast 2026
We have so much to tell you about Street Feast 2026 on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th May! We'd love you to join us and over 1,200 Street Feast hosts for Ireland friendliest neighbourly gathering.
First up: We've been working with our partners at Tesco to upgrade our Street Feast packs with a few surprises, including vouchers (you know - every little helps ;)).
AND... we're planning some great competitions with prizes to add a little magic to your Feast. We'll be announcing them on our socials and in our newsletters, so keep your eyes peeled.
It is truly going to be the best year yet and we'd love you to be part of it!
Now the days are getting longer and brighter, its time to seize the moment and celebrate the people who live around us.
Ready to host?
Register for your free party pack with all the essentials - bunting, invitations, posters and more - just go to www.streetfeast.ie
Hosting a Street Feast is easy, all you need to do is:
Pick a place – your street, local carpark, garden or community hall - anywhere will do!
Get inviting – use our party pack essentials to help get the word out!
Bring some food – ask people to rustle up their favourite dish and best baked goods to make a great picnic - or stick on the BBQ!
Enjoy the magic – connect with your neighbours, new and old!
27- Refresh & Refocus Wellbeing Event
We’re really looking forward to our upcoming Refresh & Refocus wellbeing event – a free evening designed to support parents and the wider community.
It’s happening on Tuesday 14th April 2026 in Cavan Library from 5:30pm–8:00pm, and it will be a relaxed, welcoming space to take a step back and focus on your wellbeing.
We’ll have guest speakers joining us to chat about:
Resilience building
Mental strength
Mindfulness and self-care
This event is open to everyone – parents, professionals, and anyone from the general public who feels they could benefit from a bit of time to recharge.
There’ll be refreshments served, and it promises to be an enjoyable, easy-going evening.
Spaces are limited, so if you’re interested, be sure to book your place. You can scan the QR code on the poster to get your tickets on Eventbrite.
We’d love to see you there
Kind regards,
Edel Smyth
Support Officer Co-Ordinator,
Cavan/Leitrim
Mobile: 087 220 2088
Email: edel.smyth@respond.ie
28- Discuss Rural Isolation in Swanlinbar
29- SunSmart Campaign
The annual SunSmart campaign is run by the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), in collaboration with Healthy Ireland and cross-sectoral partners. We are working together to support people to reduce their risk of skin cancer by protecting their skin from the sun.
The aim of the campaign is to reduce your risk of skin cancer by increasing awareness and engagement with the steps you, your family, friends and colleagues can take to protect your skin from the sun
This partner pack contains information, video links and image links for your use and to share with your own networks to support the 2026 SunSmart campaign.
30- Cavan Craft Collective Accepting New Members
Cavan Craft Collective Now Accepting Membership Applications.
The Cavan Craft Collective has announced that it is now accepting new membership applications from skilled makers and artisan crafters living and working in County Cavan. Applications will remain open until Friday, 10 April 2026, offering local craftspeople an opportunity to join a growing creative network grounded in the Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI) principles of quality, authenticity and craftsmanship.
As a collaborative craft community supported by Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Cavan, the Collective brings together makers across disciplines—from textiles and jewellery to woodwork, ceramics, floral design and more. The initiative aims to strengthen the craft sector in the county by encouraging cooperation, promoting high-quality handmade work and supporting sustainable creative enterprise.
Application Link: Cavan Craft Network - Local Enterprise Office - Cavan
Website - Cavan Craft Collective
Kind Regards,
Dermot
Dermot Gallagher
Food Strategy Co-Ordinator
Local Enterprise Office
Cavan Innovation & Technology Centre, Dublin Road, Cavan, H12 R6D6
086 031 8929 | food@cavancoco.ie| www.createdincavan.ie
31- Let's Talk About Health Literacy
The Adult Literacy for Life office are delighted to share their second calendar-style interactive resource of 2026: Let's talk about health literacy this April. There is a new link each day to literacy-friendly health information.
You can access this resource on the Adult Literacy for Life website. It is available on this page as a pdf or as an accessible MS Word document:
If you would like online training in Health Literacy you can access it here:
If you would like an in-person Health Literacy training session for your organisation, please let me know. We can provide training for the general public or for healthcare providers.
32- Digital Radon Monitor Available From Cavan Libraries
Outcomers provides supports across Louth, Meath, Cavan and Monaghan for LGBT+ People and their families, and would love to ensure that while this meeting takes place in our community centre in Dundalk that services from Cavan have the equal opportunity to attend.
On Tuesday, April 14th, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, Outcomers and LGBT Ireland are hosting an Information and Networking Event focused on supporting and caring for older LGBTQIA+ people in our community.
The evening will include:
- An introduction to the LGBT Champions Programme and what inclusive practice looks like in real settings
- A panel discussion featuring health professionals, community advocates, and an older LGBTQIA+ community member sharing lived experience
- Opportunities to learn about local supports, referral pathways, and capacity‑building resources
- Time to connect with others committed to inclusive, affirming care
This event is open to health and social care professionals, LGBTQIA+ community members, and anyone interested in strengthening inclusive practice for older people. You can find full details and register through Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/outcomers-caring-for-older-lgbtqia-people-in-the-community-tickets-1984043671029?aff=oddtdtcreator
33- Catch Up On Hedgehogs for a Live Zoom
Join us for a live catch up webinar
Following our recent launch event, we will have an ongoing schedule of webinars to ensure this community stays connected and up to date with important developments. The next webinar is -
Wednesday April 6th, 7.00 - 7.45 pm (Irish time)
Register to join us with the button below! Meeting Registration - Zoom
34- Invasive Species Inititiative for Cavan Communities
Cavan communities training for the prevention and management of invasive species.
Cavan County Local Development is in the process of creating plans to offer community training on invasive species. This initiative aims to equip community groups, environmental organisations, landowners, and businesses in Cavan with essential skills and knowledge to:
• confidently identify invasive species, record & report species on invasives.ie (National Biodiversity Data Centre – NBDC) website.
• acquire eradication and disposal techniques for most common invasive species in County Cavan.
• establish/adopt a biosecurity policy for their community group & ensure biosecurity measures are followed.
• implement prevention and biosecurity measures to ensure that natural environment or water bodies are free of alien species, with measures in place to minimise risk or prevent unintentional introductions (public awareness campaigns).
• participate in a Training Meitheal. Hands on training at 3 different locations in Cavan to remove, eradiate & disposal of a commonly found local invasive species.
Three separate training programs will be held in County Cavan, featuring classroom sessions (May 26), hands-on workshops at demonstration sites, and a follow-up biosecurity care workshop. Each community group will receive materials to support their efforts, aiming to create a lasting legacy for ongoing biosecurity advocacy.
Further details regarding this free training opportunity will be updated to www.ccld.ie as soon as information is available about dates, times and venues.
If you live in County Cavan and want to receive more information about this training, please add your email address to our INVASIVES mailing list here. We will contact you as soon as details of the course are ready to share with you.
35- Nature Network Ireland's New Digital Hub
Nature Network Ireland is launching a Digital Hub. This will be a national home for groups working together to reduce the impacts of climate change.
Funded by Community Foundation Ireland and the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, the Digital Hub is a free-to-use directory, sharing space, and interactive map. We are inviting you to join this collective movement today.
Why should your group join the Hub?
Increase Your Visibility: Pin your location on our national map so the public, stakeholders, and partners can uncover the work happening in their own backyards.
Share and Access Resources: From event spaces and restoration sites to technical biodiversity training and collaborative campaigns, the Hub is a space to give and get support.
Work Together, Not Alone: Move from isolated local effort to a national network.By sharing knowledge and supporting each other, we can work collectively to reduce the effects of climate change across Ireland.”
Registration is free. Join the Digital Hub today and help us strengthen the national movement for nature:
Join the Digital Hub Here
36- Calling Adult Educators Suporting older Adults...
Limited spaces available — secure your spot today on the link below before doors close on Monday 6th April:
37- Save the Date: Cavan Community Summer Conference June 27th
38- Community Services Programme Open
The Pobal Community Services Programme (CSP) is now
open for new applications — bringing fresh opportunities
for local organisations to make a real difference.
This programme supports community organisations and
social enterprises to:
✅ Create local employment opportunities
✅ Deliver essential social, economic & environmental
services
✅ Support those most impacted by disadvantage and
marginalisation
With over 420 organisations already benefiting nationwide,
this new call opens the door for more groups in Cavan to
access funding and grow their impact.
�� Apply by: 8 May 2026
�� Book an Info session to guide you through the process:
�� Morning session (10am–11:30am, 8 April)
�� Evening session (7pm–8:30pm, 8 April)
If your organisation is passionate about strengthening communities and delivering
meaningful local services — this is your chance!
�� Further info:
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