Northern Ireland Young People Launch New Comic Book

A new comic book created by primary school children and young people has been launched during Good Relations Week, bringing the concept of shared housing to life through colourful storytelling and heartfelt messages of inclusion, belonging and hope.

In a powerful reminder that the future of Northern Ireland lies in the hands of its youngest citizens, the comic book entitled ‘Our Shared Street’ reimagines what it means to live together in shared communities and offers a fresh, hopeful perspective on social housing.

Developed by Revolve Comics in partnership with Apex Housing Association (Apex), the comic tells the story of Ballyhaven, a fictional shared neighbourhood where people from different backgrounds come together to build friendships, overcome challenges, and create a sense of home. Through characters like Conan, Sharon, Ali, and Edith, the comic explores real-life issues such as homelessness, isolation and the experiences of newcomer families, showing how shared housing can offer safety, opportunity, and connection.

Five shared housing areas took part in the project, with primary school pupils and young people contributing from Ballycastle, Belfast, Dungannon, Dunmurry, and Lisburn.

Sinead Corns, Good Relations Officer at Apex, commented:

“As ‘locals only’ campaigns continue to cause concern and distress in Northern Ireland, this comic created by children and young people offers a wiser, more inclusive perspective. It will be used as a powerful tool for sparking conversations in classrooms and communities, helping the next generation to see the beauty in difference and the strength in unity.”

The project was supported by the Department for Communities (DfC) and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme. The Programme has its origins in the NI Executive Together: Building a United Community Strategy which reflects the Executive’s commitment to improving community relations and continuing the journey towards a more united and shared society.

The launch of ‘Our Shared Street’ took place on Monday 13 October 2025 in the Theatre at the Mill in Newtownabbey. The event was attended by the children and young people involved in the creation of the comic book and saw speakers including Dr Stephanie Mitchell, founder of Together CIC and Small Worlds.

Read the new ‘Our Shared Street’ comic book online at www.apex.org.uk.

Photo Caption: Pupils from Tonagh Primary School in Lisburn were among those at the launch of 'Our Shared Street'.