RESPECTis a Good Relations programme for grass roots sports clubs focussing on a localised approach. Working with four clubs in a hub drawn from ten defined areas within Derry City Council, Strabane District Council, and Donegal County Council, the project has brought clubs from different cultures and backgrounds together to address local issues that may set each other apart.
It reinforces peace building by addressing sectarianism and racism within sport, especially at a local level. Clubs where given assistance to develop a Good Relations Policy, Procedures and an Action Plan. It allowed club leaders/organisers to get to know each other and to work collaboratively on issues, which they have identified, which affect their community. It also facilitated the clubs to bring “good practice” to other issues such as Child Protection, Health & Safety and First Aid.
The project linked the local Council and Sports governing bodies to introduce programs and initiatives that offer development opportunities and sustainability to participating clubs. On Wednesday each club received a playing kit with RESPECT on it and a hoarding for their pitch indicating that they have signed up to the Peace III RESPECT program. Club members also received certificates for completing Child Welfare training and First aid courses provided by RESPECT.
Commenting on the evening, Community Rugby Officer, Shaun Bloomfield, said: “It’s fantastic to see local sports clubs working alongside each other sharing resources and tackling common issues that affect their own clubs. Many clubs face similar problems within their community, with the RESPECT project they have been able to come together and share best practice and create new relationships that will benefit all involved in sport in their community.”
Gary McClean, project coordinator, commented: “The success of RESPECT to date has been phenomenal with high levels of ‘buy in’ and positive engagement. Relationships have been formed on the basis of mutual respect and the understanding that working together produces higher outcomes than the alternative of remaining in isolation. The building of Good Relations has been the central pillar of RESPECT and it is our hope that this will have a ‘multiplier effect’ within the wider society, towards the creation of a Shared Future.”