Action for Community Transformation - Belfast

Action for Community Transformation: A Dedicated Resource

Action for Community Transformation (ACT) is a highly regarded non-profit organization located in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Situated at 178-180 Shankill Rd, Belfast BT13 2BH, United Kingdom, ACT plays a vital role in fostering reconciliation and understanding within the community. Their primary focus is on providing accessible information and facilitating dialogue surrounding the complex history of Northern Ireland, particularly focusing on the Loyalist perspective during the Troubles. The organization’s commitment to offering a safe and educational environment is evident in its accessible facilities, including a wheelchair-accessible car park and wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.

Core Objectives and Activities

ACT’s core mission revolves around promoting community transformation through historical education and engagement. They achieve this by offering a unique exhibition that delves into the events leading up to and including the signing of the Covenant, the establishment of Loyalism and Unionism, and culminating in the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement. This exhibition is designed not just to present historical facts, but to encourage critical thinking and a nuanced understanding of the conflict’s origins and its lasting impact. A key element of their work involves personal narratives, with the opportunity to speak with a former prisoner, offering a firsthand account of life within the prison system during a turbulent period. Replica cells are also on display, providing a tangible connection to the past and facilitating a deeper empathy for those affected.

Unique Features and Accessibility

ACT distinguishes itself through its commitment to accessibility and a specific historical focus. While many organizations address the broader conflict, ACT concentrates on the Loyalist experience, often a less explored aspect of the narrative. This deliberate choice allows for a more comprehensive and balanced portrayal of the events, acknowledging the diverse perspectives involved. The organization welcomes walk-ins, making it easily accessible to visitors, although they recommend calling ahead for larger groups to ensure adequate support and facilitate a smoother experience. The combination of historical information, personal testimonies, and tangible exhibits creates an engaging and profoundly moving experience for all who visit. Their dedication to providing a safe space for learning is paramount to their operation.

Positive Feedback and Reputation

The organization consistently receives positive feedback, as reflected in its average opinion of 4.9/5 on Google My Business. Visitors consistently praise the educational value of the exhibition, highlighting its ability to provide a clear and insightful overview of a challenging period in Northern Ireland’s history. The staff are frequently commended for their warmth and welcoming nature, creating a positive and comfortable atmosphere. The opportunity to speak with a former prisoner is often cited as a particularly impactful and memorable aspect of the visit. The detailed historical information presented, from the Covenant to the Good Friday Agreement, is recognized as thorough and informative. The organization’s commitment to providing context and fostering dialogue is consistently appreciated. The ease of access, combined with the quality of the experience, contributes significantly to its high ratings.

Contact Information and Additional Details

For those interested in learning more or planning a visit, ACT offers the following resources:

• Phone: 2890434827
• Address: 178-180 Shankill Rd, Belfast BT13 2BH, United Kingdom
• Website: (Currently, no website is available)

Despite the lack of a website, information can be readily obtained by phone. ACT’s dedication to community engagement and reconciliation is clear, and they represent a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of Northern Ireland’s past. The organization’s focus on providing a welcoming environment and accessible information ensures that its message reaches a broad audience.

👍 Reviews of Action for Community Transformation

Paul M.

5/5

Great place to visit. Educational, interesting and a warm greeting from the staff. You’ll find much information on the conflict and formation of Northern Ireland, from the Signing of the Covenant to the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement – A Historical Exhibition of Progressive Loyalism and Unionism. Walk-ins welcome and for larger groups we recommend calling ahead.

Fiorella C.

5/5

A great, safe place to learn about the Loyalist side of the Troubles. Speak with an ex-prisoner and see a replica of his cell. Learned so much

Cameron L.

5/5

Worth a visit if you want to hear a loyalist perspective of the northern Ireland conflict. Did this and the Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum in the same afternoon and would encourage everyone to hear both sides to make their own minds up. Both were very friendly and happy to answer my questions

Paul T.

5/5

Fantastic place for the local people always looking to help the community

Debby Y.

4/5

免費參觀，博物館和周邊景點也有許多照片介紹。這個協會幫助曾參與戰爭的人回到正常生活。

Christopher F.

5/5

Lee H.

5/5

Steven P.

5/5