NICHS is a charitable organisation which exists to improve community relations in Northern Ireland by working with young people. Despite moves towards a political solution in Northern Ireland, our communities have been left a legacy of division which breeds sectarian hatred and creates fear and tension for those living their lives in segregation.

The majority of young Catholic and Protestants in Northern Ireland live in segregated communities and attend separate schools. They rarely have an opportunity to meet, there is no opportunity to question others' views and perceptions, or confront the prejudice, distrust and fear of the other tradition. Our programmes are designed, through the provision of opportunities for long-term contact, to promote reconciliation and mutual understanding between young people and their communities. NICHS's work enables young people to develop their confidence, self-esteem and skills. NICHS motivates young people to take responsibility to explore alternatives to prejudice through raising awareness of cultural identity, political difference, justice and equality.

NICHS achieves a real and meaningful change in the lives of the young people we work with. In turn we hope these changes will contribute to improving life in their community.

NICHS welcomes comments on its website, please feel free to send your comments to: webmaster@nichs.org

-----------------------------------------------
NICHS is a company limited by guarantee and registered in Northern Ireland, Registration Number NI 18372, and has charitable status, Registration Number XN 48644.
© Copyright NICHS 2003.