Organisations from across Northern Ireland recently gathered for the Honeycomb Conference – a day focused on working together to improve support for local communities.
With more people facing pressures such as addiction, domestic abuse, homelessness, debt and mental health struggles, the message was simple: when services join forces, they can make a real difference to people’s lives.
Opened by the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray, and hosted by broadcaster Sarah Travers, the event brought together representatives from government departments, councils, local politicians, community groups and frontline services.
A key focus of the day was the Honeycomb model, which places Community Advice ABC advisers directly inside services such as The Salvation Army, Dunlewey Addiction Services, Women’s Aid, Social Supermarkets and the Bluestone Unit. This means that people who are already seeking help can get practical advice on issues like benefits, housing and debt in the same place – without needing to go elsewhere.
Speakers shared the challenges they see every day:
The Salvation Army highlighted the growing need for emergency help and how having advice on site means people get immediate, practical support.
Dunlewey Addiction Services explained how addiction often links to debt, trauma and housing issues – problems that are easier to solve when services work together.
Women’s Aid spoke about the impact of coercive control and how confidential advice in safe spaces helps rebuild confidence and independence.
The Bluestone Unit stressed the strong link between money worries and mental health, strengthened by having advisers based within the clinical team.
The PSNI Predatory Lending Team warned about rising illegal lending and the need for safe, trusted places where victims can seek help.
Community Advice ABC staff also showcased tools such as the Debt and Mental Health Evidence Form (DMHEF) to protect vulnerable people, and the ‘Money Ready’ programme, which helps teach children and young people about managing money early.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Alderman Stephen Moutray said: “This conference shows what can be achieved when organisations come together with one shared goal – supporting people when they need it most. By working side by side, we can make sure that no individual or family is left to face hardship alone.”
Looking ahead, Community Advice ABC explained how the Honeycomb approach works in practice – advisers working together, in person and online, spotting problems early and offering long-term support.
The conference ended with a clear message. No single organisation can solve every problem but by working together, services across Northern Ireland can help move people from crisis towards real, lasting hope.
