In this episode of Policy360:Unplugged, Ellen speaks with Charmain Jones, a Protestant woman, peacebuilder, and champion for rural and loyalist communities.

Charmain shares her powerful story of growing up in a loyalist area, navigating complex layers of identity, and advocating for women’s voices in places they’re too often overlooked. From the grassroots to government, she speaks candidly about what it means to belong, to challenge assumptions, and to hold space for difficult but necessary conversations.

Part of our women’s series, this episode is supported by Awards for All and spotlights the strength, nuance, and leadership of women across Northern Ireland.

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In this powerful episode of Policy 360 Unplugged, I’m joined by Mairtin Mac Gabhann—the father behind Dáithí’s Law, which transformed organ donation policy in Northern Ireland.

What starts as a deeply personal story becomes a masterclass in campaigning. Mairtin shares how he navigated the political system, built cross-party alliances, and used storytelling, research, and strategy to create real policy change. His journey offers invaluable insights for anyone trying to influence decision-makers—especially from outside the traditional corridors of power.

We explore:

• How personal stories can drive systemic change
• Tips for campaigners on messaging, momentum, and media
• Building trust across political divides
• The emotional toll—and the legacy—of long-haul advocacy

Whether you’re a seasoned policy professional or starting your first campaign, this conversation is packed with wisdom, warmth, and inspiration.

Enjoy!

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In this episode of Policy 360 Unplugged, I’m joined by Emma Shaw, the CEO of Phoenix Education Center in East Belfast. Emma shares her powerful journey from leaving school at 16 to running a grassroots organization that challenges educational disadvantage in working-class, loyalist communities. We delve into her personal story, her experiences as a mature student, and her passion for amplifying the voices of young people often overlooked in policy conversations. Tune in to hear how Emma is pushing for systemic change in education and why she believes every young person deserves a fair shot at success.

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In this powerful episode of Policy 360 Unplugged, Ellen Finlay sits down with Eileen Weir—peacebuilder, trade unionist, and proud voice from the Shankill Road. 

With honesty, humour, and deep insight, Eileen reflects on her journey from joining the UDA welfare arm as a teenager to becoming a champion for women’s rights and cross-community dialogue. 

She shares untold stories of grassroots activism, the challenges of navigating divided communities, and her unwavering belief in investing in people, not just projects. 

This is a conversation about conflict, class, and community—and the women who hold it all together.

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In this episode of Policy 360 Unplugged, host Ellen Finlay speaks with Rosemary Bell McCracken, a dedicated community activist from Rathcoole, about the realities of grassroots activism and political advocacy. Rosemary shares her journey from social media engagement to hands-on community work, highlighting the pressing issues facing the Rathcoole community—including education, housing, and a lack of essential resources.

As a loyalist woman and unionist, she discusses the importance of representation, trust-building, and breaking down barriers between policymakers and communities. She also addresses the challenges of intergenerational trauma, political misconceptions, and the need for real, on-the-ground engagement from decision-makers.

With firsthand experience of the struggles within Northern Ireland’s most deprived areas, Rosemary makes a passionate call for better policy, stronger leadership, and more grassroots involvement in shaping the future.

Tune in to hear a raw, insightful conversation about community resilience, political identity, and the urgent need for change.

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Kathy Wolff is a dedicated community worker from a loyalist background who has been leading the Community Relations Forum (CRF) since 2003. 

Under her leadership, CRF has played a key role in fostering dialogue, understanding, and respect among diverse communities in Northern Ireland. Based in Barron Hall, the only shared space venue in Newtownabbey, 

Kathy has worked on a range of initiatives, from facilitating discussions on difficult issues to organising women’s groups and cross-community events. 

Her commitment to peace building and grassroots engagement has made a lasting impact on community relations in the region.

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In this episode of Policy360: Unplugged, Phillip Brett, DUP MLA for North Belfast, shares his journey from a non-political upbringing to becoming a representative for a community with significant socio-economic challenges. 

Phillip reflects on his role in the Economy Committee and his commitment to creating opportunities for his constituents through inclusive growth and education initiatives.

Key highlights include:

✅ The importance of regional balance in economic development to ensure opportunities reach deprived communities.

✅ Efforts to improve access to higher education through bursaries and summer skills programs in partnership with Ulster University.

✅ Practical advice for community and voluntary organizations on building relationships with MLAs and influencing policy.

✅ A focus on addressing funding and capacity challenges in the community sector, including inspiring the next generation of community leaders.

Phillip’s vision for North Belfast emphasizes resilience, inclusivity, and the power of local initiatives to drive meaningful change.

🎧 Listen now to gain actionable insights into building relationships with policymakers and tackling regional inequalities.

#Policy360 #Unplugged #PhilipBrett #CommunityEngagement #InclusiveGrowth #NorthernIreland

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In this episode of Policy360: Unplugged, Steve Aiken, MLA for the Ulster Unionist Party, shares his journey into politics and his vision for Northern Ireland’s future. From his military background to his political career, Steve reflects on the challenges and achievements of serving as an MLA, including navigating periods when the Assembly was inactive.

Key highlights include:

✅ The importance of multi-year budgets for the voluntary sector to ensure stability and impact.

✅ Practical advice for the community and voluntary sector on engaging directly with MLAs to build relationships and influence policy.

✅ Insights into his work with all-party groups (APGs) on STEM, environment, and aerospace.

✅ A call to enhance education and attract talent back to Northern Ireland to unlock its full potential.

✅ The value of seeking “80% solutions” when developing and implementing policy ideas.

Steve offers a hopeful and pragmatic vision for Northern Ireland, emphasizing collaboration, honest feedback, and proactive engagement to drive positive change.

🎧 Listen now to gain actionable insights and inspiration for engaging with policymakers and shaping the future.

#Policy360 #Unplugged #SteveAiken #PolicyChange #Collaboration #CommunityEngagement

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In this episode of Policy360: Unplugged, Linda Dillon, Sinn Féin MLA for Mid Ulster and a member of the health committee, shares her inspiring journey into politics, driven by a passion for standing up for the underdog. Linda reflects on her growth in politics, the lessons she’s learned, and the importance of collaboration to achieve meaningful change.

Key highlights include:

✅ Her role in delivering the Historical Institutional Abuse Legislation, a vital step for victims long ignored by the system.

✅ Insights into the challenges of policy implementation and the need for persistence and diverse representation in politics.

✅ Practical advice for engaging with MLAs, including the power of sharing lived experiences to drive impactful policy changes.

✅ A call to protect and fund the community and voluntary sector, which she believes delivers unmatched value in areas like mental health and domestic violence.

Linda’s vision for the future emphasizes better funding, collaborative approaches, and delivering real change based on community needs.

🎧 Listen now to gain valuable insights into the policymaking process and how you can make an impact. 

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In this insightful episode of Policy360: Unplugged, Deborah Erskine, MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, shares her inspiring journey from journalism to politics. Encouraged by Arlene Foster and driven by a passion for community service, Deborah reflects on the challenges and rewards of her role as a legislator.

She highlights her work on the Autism Amendment Act, emphasizing the critical role of the community and voluntary sectors in shaping effective policies. Deborah also offers practical advice on engaging with policymakers, building relationships with elected representatives, and leveraging all-party groups (APGs) to amplify community voices.

Tune in to hear Deborah’s vision for a better Northern Ireland and her call for fair funding and recognition of the community and voluntary sectors’ vital contributions.

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