As we look towards our future Ireland, we realise that in order to make positive and sustainable improvements to our wellbeing, we need to look beyond GDP and start focusing on what is important - our communities and our local people. Befitting to this, a new platform of proven innovations for changemakers, designed to measurably improve wellbeing in communities across Ireland and the world entitl
ed ChangeX, has been introduced the Burren. Launched since May this year, ‘ChangeX Burren’ has proposed a suite of 12 social innovations and is currently working closely with and supporting local people with the energy, commitment and vision to manage them. Innovations such as Coder Dojo, Men’s Sheds, Grow it Yourself (GIY), Playworks, Fáilte Isteach and others are being offered and experienced by locals in the Burren. The aim is to build a new positive and empowered community culture and improve wellbeing for all, which will help to address the challenges that the Burren faces now and into the future. Often, the Burren is renowned for its natural beauty, landscape and precious heritage- however, as with everywhere in Ireland and indeed the world, we sometimes overlook the needs of the local community. ChangeX Burren offers us the opportunity to bring the light back onto the people who make this area so special. It is a chance to invest in community and work towards creating a more inclusive environment, bringing about positive change which will enhance our wellbeing as a whole. ChangeX Burren carried out some preliminary research association with the Discipline of Geography and the Discipline of Sociology at NUI Galway, which will allow the community to measure and track their wellbeing over time. Initial findings shows an overall wellbeing score of 6.6 out of 10. The research suggests areas of strength, which includes the environment, schools and a strong sense of community belonging, as well as areas where there is opportunity for improvement, such as mental health services, activities for young and old, and community engagement. ChangeX Burren offers individuals the opportunity to become more engaged, connect with others, live more fulfilled and happier lives. So go- be a part of the change, lets make the Burren the best place to live in Ireland!
