All 'smiles' at Millburn Community Development's summer scheme

A summer programme packed with fun, learning and friendship has been made possible for young people in Coleraine thanks to funding from the Housing Executive's Community Involvement Grants programme.

Millburn Community Development Ltd received £2,339 to deliver Smile 26, a Summer Youth Activities Programme designed for young people living within the Millburn community and surrounding Housing Executive estates.

Joining the budding little archers at Millburn 2026 Summer Scheme in Coleraine are, left to right, Charlotte McMullan, Housing Executive Community Engagement Officer on placement with Millburn CD Ltd, Gareth Doran, Good Relations Officer, Causeway, and Billy Ellis, Outreach Worker, Millburn Community Association Ltd.

placeholder image — Joining the budding little archers at Millburn 2026 Summer Scheme in Coleraine are, left to right, Charlotte McMullan, Housing Executive Community Engagement Officer on placement with Millburn CD Ltd, Gareth Doran, Good Relations Officer, Causeway, and Billy Ellis, Outreach Worker, Millburn Community Association Ltd.

Activities included archery tuition sessions, bouncy castle activities, an educational animal display from Casey's Creatures, and a community trip to Bounce Indoor Play Facility for approximately 70 young people. Food and refreshments were also provided throughout the programme to support participation and inclusion.

Following consultation with local residents, parents and young people, the project was created to meet an identified need for affordable and accessible summer activities within the community.

Frankie and Skyla, attendees of Millburn Smile 2026, try their hand at archery under the tutelage of Dave Jenkins from Cornfield Archery Club.

Thanking the Housing Executive for its support, Billy Ellis, Outreach Worker, Millburn Community Development Ltd, said: "Smile 26 was created to give local children and young people a fun, safe and welcoming place to spend time during the summer holidays.

"We wanted to offer activities that would not only entertain but also help build confidence, encourage teamwork and create opportunities for young people to make new friends."

Alison Purcell, Housing Executive Team Leader, Causeway said: "Projects such as this provide valuable opportunities for young people to stay active, improve their wellbeing and strengthen social connections during the summer period.

“It is encouraging to see local organisations working closely with residents to develop activities that meet the needs of their community and create positive experiences for children and young people."