‘Do It Herself’ Programme Helps Transform Veterans Support Group Premises in Ballymena

Eleven women have successfully completed the Mid and East Antrim Labour Market Partnership’s “Do It Herself” programme, gaining valuable decorating and DIY skills while helping renovate the new premises of The Veterans Support Group in Ballymena. The 10-week initiative provided hands-on training and practical workplace experience, helping participants build confidence and improve employment prospects.

Women Gain Valuable Skills Through ‘Do It Herself’ Programme

Eleven women have successfully completed the Do It Herself Programme Ballymena, a practical training initiative delivered as part of the Mid and East Antrim Labour Market Partnership’s 2025/26 Action Plan.

The programme combined hands-on skills training with real-world experience, allowing participants to work directly on the refurbishment of the new premises for The Veterans Support Group Ballymena on Church Street.

Delivered over 10 weeks by Building It Better NI, the initiative provided participants with an opportunity to develop practical DIY and decorating skills while contributing to a meaningful community project.

Practical Training with Real-Life Experience

Unlike traditional training environments, participants worked within an actual building setting rather than temporary training structures.

Throughout the programme, the women completed a variety of refurbishment tasks, including:

• Painting and decorating
• Wall panelling
• Installing shelving
• Wallpapering
• Interior finishing work

The practical approach allowed participants to develop valuable problem-solving abilities while gaining experience that can support future employment opportunities.

Mayor Praises Participants and Trainers

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Councillor Jackson Minford, praised both the participants and programme organisers for their commitment and achievements.

He said the opportunity to work in a real building environment helped participants develop practical skills and showcase their abilities.

The Mayor also highlighted the quality of work completed at The Veterans Support Group’s new premises, describing it as a welcoming space where local veterans can socialise and access support services.

He further thanked Sarah McKiernan and Michelle Spence of Building It Better NI for their dedication and support throughout the programme.

Supporting Employment Through Labour Market Partnerships

The programme forms part of the wider Labour Market Partnership initiative, which is funded by the Department for Communities.

Labour Market Partnerships work alongside local councils to create targeted employment action plans designed to help people gain skills, access training opportunities and move into employment.

The successful completion of the Do It Herself programme demonstrates how practical training initiatives can benefit both participants and the wider community.

Community Impact for Local Veterans

As well as providing valuable skills development, the project has helped create an improved environment for local veterans using The Veterans Support Group Ballymena’s new Church Street premises.

The renovated space will offer a welcoming setting for veterans to meet, socialise and access therapy and support services.

The project highlights how community-focused training programmes can deliver lasting benefits for both participants and local organisations.

Find Out More

Anyone interested in learning more about the Mid and East Antrim Labour Market Partnership and future training opportunities can contact:

Email: lmp@midandeastantrim.gov.uk