Reconstructing Communities

What We Do

About ACT

ACT is dedicated to supporting former political prisoners and empowering those categorised as former combatants to provide opportunities for them to support the reconstruction of their communities. Through training and capacity building, we help individuals rebuild their lives while fostering peace and reconciliation.

As a registered charity, ACT promotes:

  • Community Development – Strengthening local networks and partnerships.

  • Conflict Resolution & Human Rights – Advancing reconciliation and social cohesion.

A key initiative is our Area Action Group, which brings communities together to collaborate on solutions that address their specific needs—a process which demonstrates Demilitarisation.

Our work also includes:

  • Engaging Women – Encouraging female leadership and participation.

  • Building Cultural Networks – Strengthening community-led cultural expression.

  • Former Political Prisoners’ Programme – Providing tailored support for ex-prisoners and their families.

  • Visitor Centre Exhibition – Educating and sharing experiences to promote understanding.

Through these initiatives, ACT strives to create a more inclusive and peaceful society.

ACT Initiative Historical Exhibition

Our central office hosts a permanent exhibition of genuine articles and artefacts associated with our political history.

This exhibition charts the major political developments which led to the creation of the Northern Ireland state, the social and political unrest that followed and the events which secured peace in the province.

Community Garden

Our community garden is an urban space which has been developed by ACT Initiative and supported by Groundwork NI, wherein groups can cultivate public spaces. Our community garden is a thriving green space, providing local residents with the opportunity to take part in gardening activities, grow fresh produce, and build a stronger sense of community. Our main beneficiaries and contributors to the community garden at present are children of Primary School age.

Projects

ACT delivers a range of community-focused programmes to support peacebuilding, community development and cultural expression. These include Engaging Women, Building Cultural Networks, a Former Political Prisoners’ Programme, and a Visitor Centre Exhibition. Through training, storytelling, and cultural initiatives, ACT fosters reconciliation, strengthens communities, and promotes positive social change across Northern Ireland.

What Others Say

  • My visit to the Historical Exhibition at ACT’s Visitors’ Centre was an enlightening experience. I didn’t know that Loyalists had written documents which set out proposals for peace 12 years before The Good Friday Agreement, but were ignored. Also, it was fascinating to hear and read the narratives from young men who were political prisoners, decades ago, with an average age of just eighteen and a half

    Visitor Centre Guest

Contact

We are located on the Shankill Road in Belfast.

Our visiting hours are 9am - 4pm. Use the form below to contact us about booking a tour, getting involved and visiting the garden.

Email
actniinfo@gmail.com

Phone
028 9043 4827