🌱 A day of growing food, knowledge, friendships and skills 🌱
As part of our Grow Your Own Food workshop series, our group recently headed to Bailieborough for a field trip packed with learning and inspiration.
Our first stop was SeanNua Farm, where we explored every stage of their growing journey, from microgreens to their excavator pigs and everything in between. It was a fantastic opportunity to see thoughtful, sustainable food production in action and to learn more about the realities of small-scale organic growing.
We then visited Bailieborough Smart Garden Beckscourt Centre for lunch and a guided tour of their impressive community growing space. The group learned about their community-focused approach and how they use solar PV, drip irrigation systems and a wormery to make food growing simple, sustainable and accessible for everyone.
It was a brilliant day of sharing ideas, building connections and picking up practical skills to bring home and put into practice in our own growing spaces.
A huge thank you to everyone who welcomed and hosted us throughout the day 🌿
This project is part of the Empowering Communities for Climate Change Programme, delivered in partnership with Cavan County Local Development and funded by the International Fund for Ireland.
A brilliant and inspiring day at the Rediscovery Centre in Dublin 🌍♻️
Community members from across Fermanagh and Cavan came together to learn, connect and explore practical ways to build a more sustainable future. From innovative reuse initiatives to circular economy solutions, the visit sparked meaningful conversations and fresh ideas that participants can bring back to their own communities.
From Men’s Shed and Hens Shed members to Community Climate Leaders and environmental teams, all were united by a shared commitment to climate action and community resilience.
As part of our Empowering Communities for Climate Change Programme in partnership with Cavan County Local Development funded by International Fund for Ireland
🌱 What a fantastic start to our Grow Your Own Food workshop series at Daisy Hill House & Gardens The first session brought together a brilliant mix of complete beginners and experienced growers. All getting stuck in, sharing ideas and learning new skills side by side. From sowing seeds to chatting about growing plans, there was plenty of hands-on learning and lots of laughs too.
🥕🍅 This 4-part workshop series (plus field trips) will guide you from seed to harvest using the square foot gardening approach. Set in the beautiful surroundings of Daisy Hill House & Gardens, Ballyconnell.
📅 Workshop Dates (You can chose either 2pm–4pm OR 4pm-6pm)
🌱 25.03.26 – Workshop 1: Preparing the growing space & sowing seeds
🌿 22.04.26 – Workshop 2: Marking out the square foot grid, planting out seedlings & direct sowing
🌼 27.05.26 – Workshop 3: Raised bed maintenance, harvesting & replanting
🌻 24.06.26 – Workshop 4: Main harvest, crop rotation, fertilisation, ongoing maintenance & future planning
Missed the first session? No problem. You can still join us for the remaining workshops and be part of the journey. There’s always something new to learn and we’d love to have you along. For more info / to register contact Annette Leonard Fermanagh Trust Tel: (+44) 7944284496 Email: [email protected] or Mark Stewart CCLD Tel: (+353) 870557543 Email: [email protected] As part of our ‘Empowering Communities for Climate Change Programme’ in partnership with Cavan County Local Development. Funded by International Fund for Ireland
🌱 Generation Nature is putting young people at the heart of protecting the natural future of Fermanagh and Cavan.
Young people aged 15–16 are invited to take part in this exciting new eight-session programme (April–June 2026), delivered by The Fermanagh Trust and Cavan County Local Development and funded by the International Fund for Ireland.
Through hands-on workshops in local woodlands, rivers and lakes, participants will build confidence, leadership and practical conservation skills. From wildlife protection and water quality testing to woodland ecology and responsible outdoor practice. Young people will also work towards two nationally recognised awards, with transport provided to all sessions to remove barriers to taking part.
This is a fantastic opportunity for teenagers who care about nature, climate action and making a positive difference in their own communities.
🔗 Read the full story and find out how to apply (link in bio)
Applications are now open to the Oisín McGrath Foundation, supporting young people across Fermanagh and the surrounding area to reach their sporting potential.
Previous recipients include Max Jones, whose dedication and success in motocross continue to showcase the exceptional talent being supported through this fund.
Established in memory of Oisín McGrath, the Foundation supports young people who show real commitment and ability in sport and are striving to take the next step in their sporting journey.
🔹 Open to individuals and organisations
🔹 Young people aged 11–18
🔹 Living in Fermanagh or the surrounding area
🔹 Funding can support training, events and, in exceptional cases, equipment
📅 Closing date: Friday 27 March 2026
If you know a young person with the drive and talent to succeed in sport, we’d encourage you to apply.
For more info / to apply (see grants section of our website 🔗 in bio)
From Fermanagh to Berlin ✈️
We are absolutely thrilled for Tamzin Hall, a former participant of our Fermanagh Young Leaders Programme, who has been selected from over 1,300 applicants to represent the UK at the UK–Germany Youth Summit this March.
Tamzin credits her time on the Fermanagh Young Leaders Programme with helping build the confidence, negotiation and decision-making skills that secured her place.
Wishing you all the best Tamzin for this incredible opportunity.
🔗Read more: (See news section of our website, link in bio)
🌍 Generation Nature
This spring, 15-16 year olds across Fermanagh and Cavan are invited to build real conservation skills and become part of a generation shaping a better future for nature.
Generation Nature is an 8 session programme running April - June 2026, led by local conservation and bushcraft specialist Tony Smith of Oakwood Bushcraft Forest School & Wilderness Living. Together with community partners, Tony will guide participants through hands-on conservation, outdoor learning and leadership in real local places.
Along the way, Generation Nature will earn nationally recognised John Muir and Leave No Trace awards, gain practical outdoor skills and grow in confidence as voices for nature in their own communities.
👉 For more info / to register and be part of Generation Nature see 🔗 in our bio.
Supported by the International Fund for Ireland (IFI),
‘Empowering Communities for Climate Change’ is delivered by The Fermanagh Trust and Cavan County Local Development
📕 Training is now underway and there’s still time to join us.
The Investing in Community Volunteers programme offers FREE training and development opportunities for volunteers, committee members and staff working across the community and voluntary sector, whether you’re just starting out or looking to build on existing skills.
📍 Coming to a location near you
Workshops are being delivered in every DEA across Fermanagh and Omagh from January–June 2026, with morning, evening and online sessions to make learning accessible for everyone.
🧩 Upcoming workshops include:
• Committee Roles, Functions & Responsibilities
• Safeguarding (Certified for Frontline Volunteers)
• Safeguarding (Designated Officer)
• Fundraising: Generating Income for Your Organisation
• Halls & Venues: How to Manage Your Building
• Introduction to Social Media, AI Tools & Canva
• Volunteer Recruitment & Retention
• Delivering Services in Diverse & Multicultural Environments
🔗 Link in bio for the full training programme and registration links.
The Investing in Community Volunteers Programme is one of 13 programmes within the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council PEACEPLUS Local Action Plan, supported by PEACEPLUS and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Delivered in partnership with Fermanagh Trust, YouthAction Northern Ireland, Rural Community Network, Omagh Forum for Rural Associations, Omagh Volunteer Centre and Volunteer Now, this programme is committed to supporting volunteers and community groups with high-quality, practical training.
🔁 Please share with anyone who might benefit, and if you have any questions, we’re happy to help.
Today we remember the Fisher family on the 25th anniversary of the tragic incident that claimed the lives of Bertie, Mark and Emma Fisher.
Their legacy has continued through the work of the Fisher Foundation, which reflects Bertie and Mark’s passion for rallying and motor sport safety and Emma’s commitment to voluntary service overseas. Through the bursary awards, many individuals have been supported to pursue opportunities in their chosen fields.
As administrators of the Fisher Foundation, Fermanagh Trust is honoured to help carry forward this legacy and we remember Bertie, Mark and Emma today, holding their family and friends in our thoughts on what remains a solemn and difficult day.
📣 Fermanagh Recreational Trust open for applications
Grants are available for individuals and organisations supporting sport and recreation across County Fermanagh, with a strong focus on young people and youth development.
One recent example of support includes Enniskillen Royal Boat Club, which received funding for new indoor rowing machines to help maintain high-quality training for junior members and support athletes competing at national and international level 🚣♂️
From equipment and coaching to training and travel, these grants are helping remove barriers and create more opportunities for local talent.
⏰ Closing date for applications: 28th February
Don’t miss your chance to apply.
👉 Full details and how to apply - see grants section of our website (🔗 in bio)
🌍 Thinking about volunteering overseas this year? The Fisher Foundation is now open for applications to support Fermanagh people planning to volunteer abroad. Closing date 28th February.
Last year, grants helped local volunteers make a real difference around the world, including Olivia Maguire, whose trip with African Impact’s Girl Impact Project saw her supporting schools and taking part in a tree-planting initiative.💚
If you (or someone you know) are planning voluntary work overseas, this could help with travel and living costs. Be part of a long tradition of Fermanagh volunteers making a global impact.
⏰ Don’t miss out. Applications close 28th February.
Find out more and apply, see grants section of our website (🔗 in bio)
