Community, voluntary and social enterprise representatives across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough have been invited to play a greater role in shaping local priorities.
Expressions of interest have opened for the ABC Community Planning Steering Group, which works on behalf of the Community and Voluntary Sector Panel. Applications opened on Friday 4 September 2026 and must be submitted by midnight on Monday 21 September 2026.
Role of the steering group
The steering group can have up to 10 members and is intended to ensure the community and voluntary sector’s views are represented in community planning. Members will contribute to decision-making, encourage community engagement, speak up for underrepresented groups and help build stronger links between community organisations and statutory bodies.
The group will support work on a range of local priorities, including mental health and wellbeing, poverty and inequality, place and locality planning, environmental sustainability, and strengthening the community and voluntary sector.
Who can apply
Applicants must be members of the Community and Voluntary Sector Panel. Panel membership remains open throughout the year, meaning organisations and individuals can join at any time before applying to the steering group.
The panel provides a forum for community, voluntary and social enterprise organisations to share good practice, influence local priorities and support collaboration. It is also intended to help ensure that local community voices are heard in planning discussions.
Anyone interested in joining the panel or applying for the steering group is being encouraged to find out more and submit an expression of interest before the deadline.