Businesses

FORUM seeks to support and encourage the development
of new and existing micro enterprises under LEADER.

There is a particular emphasis on rural/agri-tourism, adventure tourism, food, marine, culture and
heritage initiatives and innovative enterprises that will compliment other measures and actions in LEADER.

Examples of activities that FORUM supports include

Development of innovative products, activities and services.
Artisan food production and craft based industries.
Development of marine resource based enterprises.
Small scale research, analysis and development.

Where FORUM cannot assist it will try to point you in the right direction to other supports that
may be able to assist. FORUM must only fund activities that are in line with the Local Development Strategy.

For further information on the above please contact 095 41116 or email:
Bairbre Bergin b.bergin@forumconnemara.ie

Families & Vulnerable Groups

Actions aimed at enhancing and improving the quality of life

FORUM uses the various schemes and programmes it administers to try and support those most vulnerable in the project area. We are constantly looking to pursue new initiatives and funding streams that can assist us in this regard.

Examples of the activities FORUM supports include

Support for women’s groups.
Health promotion.
Social care and care for the elderly.
Education and training.
Support for children with special needs and their carers.
Assistance with low income households on food poverty
Essential housing repairs.

For further information on the above please contact
Geraldine Kelly g.kelly@forumconnemara.ie 095 41116
Joe Ribbon j.ribbon@forumconnemara.ie 095 41116
Lisa Kane l.kane@forumconnemara.ie 095 41116

Services to the Unemployed

FORUM no longer administers the Social Inclusion programme responsibility for this has transfered to Galway Rural Development (GRD). For further information on supports please contact GRD on (091) 844 335.

Community Groups

Community development and capacity building

FORUM uses the various schemes and programmes it administers to supportand foster community development and self-help. We are constantly looking to pursue new initiatives and funding streams that can assist us in this regard.

Examples of the activities FORUM supports include

Facilitated the development and establishment or a therapeutic riding programme. herapeutic horse riding is the use of horses and equine-assisted activities in order to achieve goals that enhance physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioural and educational skills for people who have disabilities.
Development support is provided to new and established groups around drawing up development plans, providing relevant training and making premises and equipment available.
An extensive social care and networking programme is delivered, including meals on wheels, home visits, laundry service, respite breaks etc.
A number of FETAC accredited "Care in the Home" programmes are being delivered to carers in partnership with HSE West.

For further information on the above please contact
Gearldine Kelly g.kelly@forumconnemara.ie 095 41116

Striving to improve and protect the unique local environment for inhabitants and visitors

FORUM is acutely aware of the importance of the physical environment for the socio-economic development of the region and to this end supports a number of activities.

Examples of some of the activities FORUM has supported include