Tipperary PPN
May Newsletter 2026
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Women Leading Tipperary: Real Stories, Real Pathways to Decision-Making Event
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Tipperary women from across community development, environmental action, advocacy and public life came together in Thurles last week, for a powerful conversation about leadership, representation and creating pathways into local decision-making.
Hosted by Tipperary Public Participation Network (PPN) and See Her Elected (SHE), Women Leading Tipperary: Real Stories, Real Pathways to Decision-Making highlighted the experiences of women already shaping their communities and encouraged others to see themselves as future leaders, representatives and decision-makers.
The event, held at Thurles Chamber Enterprise Centre on Friday May 15, brought together community activists, volunteers, elected representatives and development workers for a morning focused on active citizenship, participation and empowering more women to step into leadership roles at local level.
Through a workshop, discussion and personal stories, the event explored how women can influence change within their communities, whether through volunteering, advocacy, public participation or running for elected office.
Tipperary County Council, who also supported the event, currently has just 12 female councillors, out of 40.
Launching the See Her Elected guide to Running in the 2029 Local Elections, Ruth said; “Information is power and this guide oozes taking our power if we choose to do it. This is a vital publication. Even if you’re vaguely considering stepping into politics, this is a vital part of it. So read it, even if you just want to support a woman. Find a woman and get behind her and inform yourself how to do it.”
See Her Elected is a programme under Longford Women’s Link supporting women in rural Ireland to become candidates in local elections. It is funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. For more about See Her Elected see www.seeherelected.ie.
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What is the LCDC (Local Community Development Committee) ?
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Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) are groups established in each local authority area.
An LCDC is made up of:
- members of the local authority
- local authority staff
- people from public bodies who provide funding to the area
- people from the local community interests
- people from the local community (nominated through Public Participation Networks)
- people from publicly funded/supported local development groups
LCDCs draw on the expertise and experience of public and private people and organisations in each local authority area. to learn more visit www.gov.ie/lcdc and watch the video to right.
Tipperary PPN have six seats on the LCDC:
- 2 Community and Voluntary pillar seats. The current reps are Morne Gouws and Michael Geary
- 2 Social Inclusion pillar seats. The current reps are Meadhbh Gordon and Mike Edwards
- 2 Environment pillar seat. The current reps are Derry O’Donnell and Elaine Baker
One Environment Pillar seat is currently open for election.
If your group is part of the Environment Pillar and you are interested in this Rep seat, please ask your group to nominate you by visiting https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LCDC_ENV_2026
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Community Centres Investment Fund 2026 – Refurbishment Grant
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This capital fund of €25 million is providing funding for the improvement and refurbishment of existing community centres in both urban and rural areas.
Funding is being made available under 2 Categories, with grants of between €10,000 and €100,000 available:
- Category 1: Small scale projects and improvements to facilities – €10,000 to €25,000
- Category 2 Larger scale projects – €25,001 to €100,000
The Portal for online application will open on Friday 29th May, at MyPobal Portal and will remain open until Monday 13th July 2026.
For more information visit Community Centres Investment Fund
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Rural Community Public Lighting Scheme is now open for applications.
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Club Disability Capital Support Fund 2026
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Athletics Ireland is delighted to announce that the application process for the Club Disability Capital Support Fund 2026 is now live. They invite applications from clubs across the country working in the area of disability & inclusion who are actively looking for innovative ideas and opportunities to make their club open & accessible to people with disabilities.
The Club Disability Capital Support initiative aims to reduce the barriers to sports participation for people with a disability through the provision of equipment and minor infrastructure.
The fund can be used to purchase a range of disability sports equipment and enabling infrastructure including sensory pods, hoists, handrails, fittings, mats, wheelchairs, ramps, audio and assistant technology, accessible signage, mobility aids, handrails, fittings, mats, wheelchairs, ramps, inclusive sports equipment etc
Closing date for application is Wednesday 10th June 2026 at 5pm
For more information and to apply visit https://www.athleticsireland.ie/club-disability-capital-support-fund-2026-open-for-applications/
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Power to Participate Fund for Disabled Persons’ Organisations
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Power to Participate: Strengthening Stakeholder Engagement Fund 2026 will make individual grants available to organisations that are led by and include disabled people so they can work with Government Departments on policies and initiatives to deliver on the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030.
This commitment is in line with obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to ensure that disabled people and their representative organisations are included in the development and delivery of policy and legislation that affects their lives.
Grants will help provide Assistive Technology, support training, help the organisation register as a charity, establish their board, support them to grow and more.
Closing date for application is Friday 26th June 2026
For more information and to apply visit https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/publications/power-to-participate-strengthening-stakeholder-engagement-fund-2026/
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LAWPRO (Local Authority Water Programme) Small Grants & Events Scheme
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This grants scheme is for community groups to apply for small scale initiatives and events outside of LAWPRO’s targeted open calls. It covers events such as World Wetland Day, Biodiversity Week, Science Week, etc. It may also be used for small awareness raising initiatives such as surveys and plans, citizen science, hosting a meeting, workshops, litter pick, publications, biodiversity signage, or other such small scale initiatives. Applications must have a water quality or water awareness focus.
All expenditure must be incurred before Saturday 31st October and grants must be drawn down before Friday 6th November 2026
For more information and to apply visit https://consult.watersandcommunities.ie/en/content/lawpro-small-grants-and-events-scheme-2026
Please note you must contact your local Community Water Officer before making an application. To find you local community water officers contact details visit https://lawaters.ie/team/communities-team/#filter=*
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Sustainable Step-Up Fund is open for applications
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Supporting social innovations across Ireland to step up their impact and address the climate crisis and its interconnected challenges
The Sustainability Step-Up Fund supports social innovations across Ireland to step up their impact and address the climate crisis and its interconnected challenges. It is aimed at grassroots organisations, community-led initiatives, social enterprises and other non-profits that build resilience, promote sustainable practices, foster climate action and environmental stewardship and support the circular economy so that the benefits of the green transition are shared equitably. Both established organisations ready to scale and earlier-stage initiatives that are up and running and looking to step up are eligible to apply.
All supported projects must demonstrate strong environmental and social sustainability. By integrating environmental, economic, and social objectives, this fund backs inclusive, scalable, long-term climate solutions.
The fund offers a package of cash grants and non-financial supports for up to five projects.
This includes:
- Up to €210,000 each over an 18-month project implementation period
- The non-financial supports include:
- A place on Rethink Ireland’s Accelerator Workshop Programme
- Bespoke business and capacity building supports designed in consultation with the successful projects on topics such as strategic planning, impact measurement, communications, financial sustainability or fundraising.
- Access to Rethink Ireland’s networks.
Closing date for application is Thursday 28th May 2026 at 1 PM.
For more information and to apply visit Sustainability Step-Up Fund – Rethink Ireland
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The Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation has launched a public consultation on a new Digital Wallet, designed to let you securely store important documents like your birth cert, driving licence, and EHIC on your phone.
As part of the Digital Public Service Plan 2030, the DPER is leading on the digitalisation of the majority of public services including, for example, applying for social housing, obtaining a marriage certificate or registering for key welfare supports, such as the working family payment.
The Government Digital Wallet is a key part of this plan and is being developed to provide the public with a quick and easy way to store important documents on their phone.
To have your say on the digital wallet visit
https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-public-expenditure-infrastructure-public-service-reform-and-digitalisation/campaigns/welcome-to-the-government-digital-wallet/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExTnltNEQyZXdDdGRwWXR3SHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4fvuKkWSoFoFRHkWLEjSisDsd4ELFTdNHowbuUcpHouDouC11Ck2ag41Z-yA_aem_DXmciAb5e8AGp6hxWo5MFA
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Barriers to Accessing Bank Accounts for Small Community Groups survey
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Social Justice Ireland is an independent think tank and justice advocacy organisation that advances the lives of people and communities through providing independent social analysis and effective policy development to create a sustainable future for every member of society and for society as a whole.
Social Justice Ireland are conducting a short survey to better understand how Community Groups access basic financial services, and where gaps may exist. As Community Groups need a dedicated bank account in order to receive grants and funding, by sharing your perspective, you’ll contribute to research that aims to improve access to basic financial products for community groups. The survey is quick, anonymous, and open to everyone.
To complete the survey visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FVCFB9S
The survey will close on Saturday 31st October 2026.
To learn more about Social Justice Ireland visit https://www.socialjustice.ie/
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Tipperary Age Friendly Survey
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Social Enterprise Census 2026
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Minister Buttimer calls on every social enterprise to complete the survey. Don’t miss out on this opportunity for your social enterprise to be included and heard.
Important opportunity for social enterprises to influence future policy decisions, funding priorities, and support programme development.
Action 51 of Trading for Impact the National Social Enterprise policy includes a commitment to periodically hold a Census of Social Enterprise. Growing, strengthening, and realising the impact of social enterprises within communities are key goals of the Government’s Social Enterprise Policy, and the information collected during the Census is key to the continued targeted delivery of this policy, and how the sector will be supported into the future.
To complete the Social Enterprise census visit https://panel.amarachsurveys.ie/S2/rs?vx-skey=ec517fe4-dd31-4cc4-988b-e46ff2e2a9b3
If you have any queries, email us at project.team@sedatacollection.ie
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Tipperary Local Community Safety Partnership Survey “Your Safety Matters”
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The Tipperary Local Community Safety Partnership is inviting you to share your views and experiences of safety in your community. Your input will help shape a three-year Community Safety Plan for Tipperary, ensuring it reflects the real needs and priorities of the people who live and work here.
This plan will:
- Set out a coordinated, community-led approach to improving safety and wellbeing
- Bring together local services and organisations to work more effectively together
- Be based on evidence and lived experience from communities across Tipperary
- Reflect both national priorities and local concerns
What is a Community Safety Plan?
A Community Safety Plan is a three-year strategic plan developed by the Local Community Safety Partnership. It provides a framework to:
- Identify key safety issues
- Develop practical solutions
- Coordinate efforts across agencies and communities
- Deliver real improvements in local safety and quality of life
This survey is a key part of the process.
There will also be public consultations and stakeholder engagement in the coming months, but this is your chance to contribute right now visit https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=KU0tqV3mqkqScVIJsNUI15oR2M82x7pBvdiuRf-qYFFUQ1MyWVNUMVBZNlJCTzZGOFlITFZNWEVHUi4u to complete the survey
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Suir and Barrow Rivers Trusts Public Consultation
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Join an in-person or online to help shape the proposed Rivers Trusts for the Suir and Barrow—your input matters! The proposed Trusts would bring together communities, landowners, businesses and agencies to better protect each river.
As part of the project, we are running a comprehensive stakeholder engagement programme. This includes:
- In-person community meetings
- Focus groups for community organisations
- Online questionnaires
- Meetings with key agencies
There are two sets of community meetings, focus groups and questionnaires. One is for the Suir, the other for the Barrow.
All relevant the information and links to book a place on the various community meetings and focus groups are available on the project webpage. The webpage also contains links to the two questionnaires https://www.researchanddig.com/three-sisters-rivers-trusts
Why participate?
- Share your views on the future of the rivers
- Highlight local issues, concerns and opportunities
- Help shape how the Trusts could be developed
In-person community meeting focusing on the Suir will take place on Thursday 28th May in Cabragh Wetland Centre/Thurles.
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FREE Helium Workshops for Young People Living with Long-Term
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Bookings are now open for Helium’s FREE Summer Art Camp in NENAGH for children and young people with long-term physical health conditions.
Nenagh Summer Camp, Tyone Community Centre for 8–12 years olds from Tuesday 21st July to Thursday 23rd July
Book your Nenagh space visit https://helium.ie/workshop/nenagh-summer-camp/
If you can’t make it in person book your online space here
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Literacy is everybody’s business! Join the Tipperary Adult Literacy Coalition
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Boost your organisation’s communication skills — for free!
The Adult Literacy Coalition for Tipperary is offering free, practical training for organisations and businesses across Tipperary this June and September.
Choose what suits you best with in person or online sessions available. Discover how to become literacy friendly in your work with clients and learn how to use Plain Language across your organisation. These simple but powerful skills help you deliver excellent customer care and ensure your messages are clear, confident, and understood the first time.
Join a growing network of literacy friendly staff in Tipperary who are making communication easier, more inclusive, and more effective for everyone.
- Literacy Awareness: Wednesday 3rd June – Nenagh, Wednesday 10th June – Clonmel or Wednesday 17th June – online
- Plain Language: Wednesday 9th September – Nenagh, Wednesday 23rd September – Clonmel or Wednesday 30th September – online
To register visit https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=JVynwf1lH0qKvRxHsiCCvm9iCyIoIvJAqFBEVTeBfmZUNEE4WDFIQUw3T0tFR0ZOUU5RUFVBREs3Ni4u&origin=lprLink&route=shorturl or give Ester a call on 087 0626 937.
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Connecting with Men Workshop
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Connecting with Men Workshop on Wednesday 10th June 2026 from 9.15am – 4.30pm in The Bridge Centre, Cashel Road, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, E91 X5T7
The aim of this workshop is to assist a broad range of practitioners and service providers to explore the world of males, and to develop practical strategies for effectively engaging with them around health and wellbeing issues. It focuses on the engagement process (i.e. WHY and HOW to build relationships with men) rather than offering a new or revised health programme (i.e. WHAT to offer them).
The key objectives for this workshop are to:
- Reflect upon how to create a ‘safe space’ for working with men.
- Gain a common understanding of what men’s health is and why it is important.
- Explore how gender influences the values and attitudes that men develop in relation to their health, and how this influences their health behaviours.
- Identify some of the determinants that shape health outcomes for men.
- Reflect on participants’ own value base, experience, skills, attitudes towards and expectations of men.
- Explore what a ‘male friendly’ health programme or service looks like in practice.
- Signpost participants to further sources of help, advice, guidance and support.
Who Should Attend?
This workshop will be of interest to a broad range of service providers and practitioners who wish to connect in more meaningful ways with men.
Cost – The ‘Connecting with Men’ workshop is free for all participants.
To apply for a place on this workshop or for further information, please visit https://bookwhen.com/southeasttraining/e/ev-sozv-20260610091500
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Make Way Day is moving! Mark your calendars for Friday 29th May
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Since it first began, Make Way Day has grown into an incredible national movement, bringing communities together to highlight the everyday obstacles faced by people with disabilities on our streets. As we look ahead to our next campaign, we’re making a big change to help this movement grow even stronger.
This year, Make Way Day is moving from its traditional September slot to a brand-new date on Friday, 29th May 2026.
Why the change of season?
We’ve reviewed our past campaigns and listened to feedback, and we believe moving to May will make a massive difference for two big reasons:
Clearing the airwaves: Historically, Make Way Day has fallen on the last Friday of September, putting us right in the middle of the frantic pre-Budget news cycle. By moving to May, our message no longer has to compete with heavy economic and political news.
Stepping into the sunshine: Make Way Day is all about getting out onto the streets to document obstacles and run walkability audits. We all know late September weather can be unpredictable, to say the least! Moving to the gateway of summer means lighter evenings, milder weather, and a safer, more enjoyable experience for all our amazing volunteers and participants.
We are working hard to finalise our campaign packs, digital assets, and resources. We will be sharing these with all our partners, local authorities, and advocacy groups very soon so you have everything you need to hit the ground running.
For now, please save the date Friday 29th May and keep an eye on our social media and www.makewayday.com for more updates. Let’s get ready to make way. For more information visit http://makewayday.com/
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Join us at the start of Men’s Health Week, Monday 15th June, 12pm – 1pm, to hear from a range of speakers who will share their insights and experience on the key theme for the week, One Step at a Time – progress not perfection. Guest speakers include:
- Poet and Mental Health Advocate, Daragh Fleming
- Broadcaster and Entrepreneur, Bobby Kerr
- Founder of the innovative ‘Be OK Garage’ promoting mental health, Dave Smith
- Social Prescriber and Screening Champion, Lewis Byrne
- HSE Project Manager, Bláthín Casey
To support accessibility, an Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreter will be present for the full duration of the webinar. To register visit https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_BHM8-3lhRLGxxPMTFw0eLA#/registration
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National Age Friendly Recognition & Achievement Awards 2026
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Age Friendly Ireland is delighted to confirm that the National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards 2026 are now live for submissions—and we’d love you to put your project forward.
Closing date: Thursday, 29th May 2026
Each year a local authority hosts the awards event, and we’re thrilled to share that Limerick City and County Council will host this year’s ceremony in The Limerick Strand Hotel on Thursday, 8 October 2026.
This year there are ten award categories, aligned to the 8 World Health Organisation (WHO) Age Friendly Themes.
These awards celebrate the people, partnerships and programmes making Ireland more Age Friendly. If your initiative is improving everyday life for older people—big or small, local or national—we strongly encourage you to apply.
To learn about the National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards visit https://agefriendlyireland.ie/national-age-friendly-recognition-and-achievement-awards/
Who can apply? Organisations, individuals/members of the public, agencies and communities – Everyone!
For more information and to submit your application visit Awards 2026 | Age Friendly Ireland
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Age Friendly Ireland Newsletter
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Changing Ireland Newsletter
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Charities Regulator Newsletter
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DFI Podcast and Newsletter
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HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast
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Mental Health Awareness Magazine
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Farming for Nature Newsletter
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Jigsaw’s mental health supports for parents/guardians
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Neart is a partnership between Jigsaw, the National Centre for Youth Mental Health and the National Educational Psychological Service/Department of Education.
Jigsaw provides mental health webinars, podcasts and other resources for parents/guardians.
To register for a monthly newsletter or visit https://jigsaw.ie/neart/
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