PEACEPLUS – Play & Connect

Donegal Sports Partnership’s exciting new peacebuilding programme “Play and Connect”, supported through PEACEPLUS, a European Union programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), aims to bring together national schools throughout the municipal areas of Donegal alongside primary schools from Northern Ireland.

Over the two year duration, this inclusive and community-focused initiative will engage up to 300 student participants. Through fun and structured physical activity, the programme seeks to foster connection, wellbeing, and mutual understanding among children and their communities.

The programme aims to:

• Break down barriers and promote peace through shared play
• Enhance both physical and mental wellbeing
• Foster leadership, teamwork, and interpersonal skills
• Encourage integrations and social mobility
• Create welcoming, accessible spaces for all

Programme highlights will include:

• Training of Play Leaders: School staff, parents, local volunteers, and coaches will receive training to lead inclusive and engaging play sessions.
• Cross-Community and Cross-Border Engagement: Schools will participate in inter-community and cross-border activities to build relationships and promote reconciliation. 
• Community Empowerment: By establishing links with community groups and clubs, the programme will embed long-term play initiatives at a local level.
• Inclusive Design: The universal language of Play will ensure equal access regardless of ability, ethnicity, or religious background.

http://www.seupb.eu