By Mary Mitchell
Sometimes the most transformative experiences come from the most unexpected places. For me, that moment arrived when I joined a podcasting course, a collaborative initiative between Blanchardstown Adult Services (BAES) and the Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group (BTDG). It was through this partnership that I first encountered the Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group (BTDG), an organisation quietly but powerfully shaping a more inclusive, supportive, and vibrant community in Dublin 15.
Over these six weeks, I discovered an organisation that goes far beyond surface-level advocacy. BTDG is a catalyst for real change, bridging gaps, amplifying voices, and fostering that transforms lives. Along the way, I met individuals whose dedication and vision are redefining what it means to build a community rooted in empathy, equity, and action.
Today, I’m sitting down with Kathleen and Christy, members of the BTDG team, driving force behind this initiative, to delve deeper into their mission. From grassroots efforts to systemic advocacy, Kathleen and Christy offer a firsthand look at how small acts of courage and compassion can ripple outward, creating a Dublin 15 where everyone belongs. I explore the heart of this work and the people who make it possible.
Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, Kathleen?
My journey began years ago at Pavee Point, where I took my first steps into community work by completing a course that opened doors to new opportunities. From there, I was fortunate to continue my education at University College Dublin (UCD), which laid the foundation for a diverse career path.
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats, from working in childcare to qualifying as a Special Needs Assistant (SNA), but my greatest passion has always been community development.
There’s nothing more fulfilling than working alongside people, helping them create meaningful change in their lives. Whether it’s through advocacy, support, or simply listening, I thrive on human connection.
You could say I’m a bit of a storyteller at heart; I love chatting with people, hearing their experiences, and learning from their journeys. For me, progress happens when we meet people where they are, and that’s what drives me every day.
What is the mission of Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group?
The Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group (BTDG) is a Traveller-led organisation dedicated to improving the lives of Travellers in Dublin 15. Our mission is to stand up for Traveller rights and tackle the everyday challenges our community faces.
We work with local partners like the Health Service Executive, Blanchardstown Drugs Task Force, and Blanchardstown Adult Education Services to improve access to health, education, and employment. We focus on what we can change, like helping people find work, access training, or get support with paperwork.
One of our biggest challenges is making sure Travellers know these services exist. There’s great support in Blanchardstown, but many people don’t know where to start. That’s why BTDG is here, to meet people where they are, listen to what they need, and offer practical help that builds confidence and opens doors. We believe in real change, one step at a time!
What is your role in the organisation?
I coordinate the special primary healthcare and social care initiative focusing on the key areas: the older traveller, obesity and heart health, drugs and alcohol misuse, and mental health in young people.
Can you tell me about some of the projects you have worked on?
At BTDG, we focus on real problems Travellers face, like finding work. That’s why we started the Steps to Work programme with the HSE and Blanchardstown Drugs Task Force. We offer free certified training, cover equipment costs, and help people gain skills employers want. We also ran a successful healthcare course with the HSE, designed by and for Travellers.
We offer free Curriculum Vitae (CV) support too, because a good CV can open doors. We work to make sure people know these services exist. BTDG is here to help, step by step, with practical support that builds
confidence and opportunity.
Christy, how did you get involved with BTDG?
I first got involved through a Community Employment (CE) scheme at 18. It gave me a chance to earn while learning new skills. I took every training opportunity and worked in different jobs, but none felt truly right until I connected with the team at BTDG. From the start, I felt this work mattered. Helping others directly is rewarding, and I finally feel like I’ve found my place.
Now, I work alongside Carol, another supervisor. We talk to Travellers about their goals, whether it’s getting a job, going back to education, or just building confidence. Some may just need help with forms, others want to improve their computer or writing skills. We listen, then link them with training that suits their needs. It’s all about support, step by step.
Are you working on any programmes at the moment?
Our newest programme helps young mothers. It’s a safe space to share experiences and get support. Sessions include talks on health, nutrition, and child development. While mothers take part, their children are cared for by trained staff. It’s more than a group; it’s a lifeline for learning, connection, and well-being.
What are the biggest issues facing Travellers in Dublin 15?
Housing is the biggest challenge for Travellers in Dublin 15. Many families, especially young mothers with children, are constantly moving because they don’t have a stable place to live. This disrupts family life and cuts people off from schools, doctors, and support networks. It’s not just about poor living conditions; it’s the stress and isolation that come from never feeling settled. Without safe, secure housing, everything else suffers.
What Community Services do BTDG work with?
We work with all stakeholders in the community, Kathleen mentioned earlier. We’ve recently enrolled in a podcasting course with Blanchardstown Adult Education Service, which has been brilliant. Their support helped us launch our podcast, giving our community a real voice. We took part in the Adult Literacy for Life Showcase in Croke Park, inspiring others to do the same.
Their financial literacy workshops, especially the one with Revenue.ie, were a game-changer. They made tax and paperwork easy to understand and gave us the confidence to sort out tax issues on the spot.
My Dream for Travellers
My dream is for Travellers to be treated equally, with the same chances in education and jobs. Too often, Traveller children miss school, which holds them back. We want respect, opportunity, and a fair chance to thrive.
Thank you to the BTDG team for the warm and generous welcome. I appreciate your openness and your understanding of the value in sharing your experiences. This whole process has been a real learning journey, and I’ve gained valuable insights into the inspiring work happening at BTDG.
A special thank you to Kathleen and Christy for the energy and enthusiasm you brought to this interview. It is clear how passionate you are about your work.
