As you may know, Cop​elands Residential Home enters its fourth year in operation this year, and we are are happy to report that the home goes from strength to strength in all markers of success. We have been committed to providing the best quality of life for our older residents, and one of our priorities since the home’s opening was to find meaningful ways to keep our residents actively engaged within the local community. The idea of a ‘Friends of Copelands' group thus emerged, and we are happy to announce the launch of the group for Spring 2025. Our founding meeting will take place on Thursday 20th February at 3.30pm. Enclosed you will find a small batch of information leaflets for your own group or congregation.

We appreciate that you and your members have busy schedules, but we would appreciate your support in spreading the word, and helping to build connections for our residents into local church congregations, community groups and interested individuals. Our prospective members will have the opportunity to put their own stamp on the aims and vision of the group, but an early suggestion could be:

That residents and community friends feel a sense of connection through purpose-driven friendships. The associated activities benefit the communities both within and surrounding Copelands- making the home a vibrant contributor to the story of our area.

Spring 2025 Programme

Our Programme for Spring 2025 will be directly organised by the team at Belfast Central Mission and Copelands. Over time, our hope is that the group will have input from a wider range of people, including residents. In each meeting, the first 30 minutes will be for social tea and coffee. Attendees are also invited to join from 2.30pm for our weekly resident’s Christian service.

Thursday 20th February (Opening meeting)Introduction meeting and cream tea. Led by BCM Superintendent Rev David Campton, we will discuss our aims for the friends and introduce a terms of reference.

Thursday 20th March Talk by archivist Wesley Weir on the history of Childhaven and Craigmore homes, that predated the Copelands site.

Thursday 17th April Coffee, cake and music social fundraiser for a local good cause.

Friday 16th May (10am -Midday) Leaving from Copelands, we will walk and talk to Millisle Health and Wellbeing Group for their morning tea, and a visit to their growers tunnel.

Click below for our first seasonal programme of events

Friends of Copelands invitation