Lots being achieved and more work to do at Oasis…
Ken Humphrey has just become the new CEO of Oasis Caring in Acton in February. Ken has a long history of work in community development projects. Most recently having served as Director of SOS Bus NI, however, Ken is glad to be working again in a grassroots project addressing disadvantage and tackling issues affecting all ages, from the early years through to the elderly and those isolated in their homes. He says:
I am looking forward to working within a locally based organisation. Despite significant work already completed there remains considerable need and opportunity to address the stark inequalities present in east Belfast. Often inequality begins in the early years. The window for developmental learning is quite short so its important to assist children as early as possible, so that gaps can be identified and addressed.
Last Autumn, Oasis Early Years worked with Belfast Trust to open a new baby room and cot room. This means that our Early Years facilities now include four rooms: Babies (0-2 years), Toddlers (2-3 years), Pre-school (3-4 years), and After-school (Primary P1-P7). We presently cater for 70+ children. The facility also offers pick-ups from 9 local schools and playgroups.
Oasis Caring in Action has an enthusiastic and skilled staff team of 40, and takes a multi-faceted approach to the work it carries out. In addition to it’s Early Years and After-Schools it continues to deliver a range of projects including:
Oasis Princes Trust Team Programme (16-24+ year olds)
IMAGO Befriending Service providing mental health support through 1-1 and group work
Family Support working with families going through difficult times.
Good Morning Oasis telephone befriending service providing regular contact with those who may be isolated in their homes.
Oasis Antrim Foodbank providing emergency food and support to people in crisis.
Oasis Caring in Action is deeply grateful for our partners, the help of many volunteers, and for the personal donations which make this work possible. We are always looking to find better ways of working, including with other community organisations and agencies, to work collaboratively to address disadvantage. Our website and FB pages provide more information about our programmes or call OCIA on 02890872277