Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney, Announces Chosen Charities

Released: Monday 7 September 2026

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney alongside L-R, Jan Donaldson - Young Enterprise NI and Jane Gillow - Dementia NI. Photo - Ricky Parker Photography.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney, has announced the two charities he will support during his term of office: Dementia NI and Young Enterprise NI.

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The charities have been selected in recognition of the positive impact they make within local communities, supporting people of all ages and helping to create opportunities for individuals and families across the Borough.

Dementia NI is a member-led charity that empowers people living with dementia to influence and drive positive change in their communities and beyond. Guided by its vision of 'Everyone living well with dementia', the charity is led by people with dementia and works to ensure their voices are heard and understood. Through advocacy, peer support and awareness raising, Dementia NI strives to create meaningful change and improve the lives of people affected by dementia across Northern Ireland.

Young Enterprise NI is a charity dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people with the skills, confidence and ambition needed to succeed in a global economy. Through inclusive work-readiness, financial capability and entrepreneurship programmes, it works closely with schools, educators and businesses to provide practical learning opportunities for young people, regardless of their background or ability. Its vision is for every young person to have the opportunity to develop enterprise skills, build confidence and realise their potential.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney said,

"I am proud to support Dementia NI and Young Enterprise NI as my chosen charities for the year. Both organisations make a lasting difference in the lives of people across our Borough by supporting individuals, strengthening communities and creating opportunities for people to thrive.

Dementia NI does outstanding work in ensuring that people living with dementia have a voice, remain connected to their communities and are empowered to live well. At the same time, Young Enterprise NI is helping to inspire the next generation by equipping young people with the skills, confidence and entrepreneurial mindset they need for the future.

These charities reflect causes that are important to me personally, from supporting those living with dementia and their families to encouraging enterprise, ambition and opportunity among our young people. I look forward to working alongside both organisations throughout the year and hope residents will join me in supporting our fundraising efforts."

All funds raised throughout the Mayoral year will be divided equally between the two charities.

To make a donation, visit: www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/MayorsCharityDonation

For more information on upcoming fundraising events or how to get involved, contact the Mayor's Office on 0300 013 3333 or email mayors.office@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk