Derry and Strabane Council champions finalists for Pride of Place Awards
16 October 2026
Two standout community initiatives from across the Derry City and Strabane District Council area have been nominated to represent the region at the prestigious 2026 IPB Pride of Place Awards, taking place in Dublin later this month.
Two standout community initiatives from across the Derry City and Strabane District Council area have been nominated to represent the region at the prestigious 2026 IPB Pride of Place Awards, taking place in Dublin later this month.
The North West Ministry of Youth and Derg Valley Care Health Hub were chosen through a competitive selection process managed by the Council’s Local Community Growth Planning Partnership Boards. The awards, run by Co-operation Ireland in partnership with local authorities and headline sponsor IPB Insurance, honour the extraordinary effort, dedication, and impact of grassroots community organisations across the island of Ireland. The winners will be announced at a gala dinner and award ceremony on Saturday, 24 October 2026, hosted by Dublin City Council at the Convention Centre, Dublin.
Youth Empowerment and Rural Healthcare in the Spotlight. The North West Ministry of Youth, which has been nominated under the Community Youth Initiative category, is based in the Waterside DEA and representsyoung voices right across the district. This youth-led organisation bridges the gap between decision-makers and the next generation. The group played a pivotal role in Derry and Strabane becoming Ireland's first official UNICEF Child-Friendly Community, ensuring youth perspectives directly shape municipal policy and local council motions.
The Derg Valley Care Health Hub, nominated in the Community Wellbeing Initiative category, is a vital lifeline based in Castlederg that has served surrounding rural communities since 1996, recording over 13,000 attendances annually. DVC delivers an extensive array of day care and health services, ranging from physical activity classes and mental wellbeing programs to creative arts and social connection initiatives aimed at tackling rural isolation.
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Grace Uí Niallais, praised both organisations saying she is delighted that they have been recognised for the fantastic work they do in the community.
She said: “I want to extend my warmest congratulations to the North West Ministry of Youth and Derg Valley Care Health Hub on their well-deserved nominations for the 2026 Pride of Place Awards. Both of these initiatives embody the very best of our district, our young leaders ensuring their generation's voice is heard at the highest levels, and our rural community care providers working tirelessly to tackle isolation and improve local lives. Reaching the national finals is a true testament to their passion, resilience, and commitment. I wish both groups the very best of luck in the final.”
A spokesperson for the North West Ministry of Youth said: “Being nominated for a national Pride of Place award is a huge honour for everyone involved in the North West Ministry of Youth. Young people deserve a real seat at the table when decisions are made about our communities and our future. This recognition highlights what young people can achieve when given a platform, and we are proud to represent Derry and Strabane on an all-Ireland stage.”
Martin Duffy CEO of the Derg Valley Care Health Hub said: “Derg Valley Care is delighted to participate in the Pride of Place Awards, which provide an important opportunity to showcase the dedication, resilience and community spirit that exists within our rural area. For almost 30 years, Derg Valley Care has worked alongside local people and partners to improve health and wellbeing, tackle social isolation and create opportunities for people of all ages to participate in community life. Our work is rooted in the belief that strong, inclusive communities are built by listening to local people, responding to their needs and working together to make a lasting difference.We are particularly proud of the contribution made by our staff, volunteers, service users and community partners. The Pride of Place Award offers a valuable opportunity to recognise this work and celebrate the positive impact that community-led initiatives can have on people’s lives. Our vision is to make Castlederg a healthy place for healthy people, and participation in the awards allows us to share that vision while celebrating the wider contribution of rural communities across the district.”
Ends
Notes to Editor:
The IPB Pride of Place competition is an all-island initiative delivered by Co-operation Ireland in partnership with local authorities. It acknowledges the vital contributions of community groups in creating pride in their local areas. The 2026 Gala Awards Ceremony takes place on Saturday, 24 October 2026, at the Convention Centre, Dublin.