Dozens of special welcome packs have been handed out to new families making east Belfast their home.
They include a small model of the world famous Harland and Wolff cranes, which dominate the local skyline, as well as Tayto crisps.
The initiative is being delivered by the East Belfast Race Relations Network in an effort to welcome all to the area.
It is part of a project by the East Belfast Community Development Agency aided through a £497,197 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund.
Katy Allen with one of the welcome packs being handed out to people making their home in east Belfast (The National Lottery Community Fund/PA)
Katy Allen, who works on the ground with East Belfast Community Development Agency, said the area – like many in Northern Ireland – is becoming increasingly diverse, adding it is important for all residents to feel welcome.
“Mental health in particular can be badly affected after a big change. There’s a clear need for a resource for people to get support and feel welcome. So, we’ve been working with East Belfast Race Relations Network for over a year on a ‘Welcome Pack’ which is personally delivered,” she said.
“The packs are for anyone who is new to east Belfast, whether you’re from another part of the city, or another part of the world. It’s the personal and small things that make a big difference and that is definitely the idea here.
“There’s a welcome letter and information on all local support and services, useful facts like when to put your bin out and the nearest community centre, park, doctor and shop.
“We also include some Tayto crisps and an ornament of the Harland and Wolff cranes, it’s a personal touch which shows people they are welcome here, and this just means so much.”
One young mother and her family who recently moved to east Belfast described moving house as a very stressful time for them, adding she was very grateful for the welcome pack.
“It made the transition easier, and I have connected in with Family Support Groups which has helped me to feel settled,” she said.
Ms Allen described the support from the National Lottery Community Fund as vital both in terms of the welcome pack as well as helping organisations to work together and share resources, including the co-ordinating the East Belfast Anti-Poverty Alliance.
“We’re always asking for ideas on how we could improve the packs and will regularly update the contents based on feedback. Our welcome letter is available in 13 languages, and growing,” she added.
“A person delivering a big yellow box is hard to forget or miss, so those receiving them also meet a friendly face. Everyone who gets one finds it so useful and we’ve been delighted with the response so far.”
If you would like more information, please contact East Belfast Community Development Agency on 028 9045 1512 or email [email protected].