Policy360: Unplugged

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...

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 po...

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 th...

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...

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...

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, fr...

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. Ke...

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...

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 deliv...

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...

In this episode of Policy360: Unplugged , journalist Niamh Campbell from the Belfast Telegraph shares her journey into journalism and her passion for storytelling. Niamh delves into the challenges of building trust in the media, particularly in Northern Ireland, and the impact of social media on public perception. She offers invaluable advice to charities on: ✅ Crafting effective press releases w...

In this episode of Policy360: Unplugged , journalist and commentator Amanda Ferguson joins me to discuss the powerful role of media in shaping policy, public perceptions, and representation in Northern Ireland. We explore the importance of fair and balanced media coverage, the need to amplify women’s voices in decision-making spaces, and how storytelling can be a catalyst for change. Amanda shares...

In this powerful episode of Policy360: Unplugged , Danielle Roberts joins me to explore the critical issues impacting women across Northern Ireland. From the challenges of underrepresentation in policy and decision-making to the urgent need for action on gender-based violence, Danielle shares her insights and experiences as a passionate advocate for women’s rights. As we mark the International Day...

In this episode of Policy 360: Unplugged  I sit down with John O'Doherty, a seasoned advocate to explore the transformative power of advocacy and collaboration.  John shares his journey from grassroots activism to leading impactful initiatives that drive real change in the community.  We dive into the challenges and successes of his work, discussing the importance of inclusivity, strategic pa...

In this episode, I speak with Sarah Bunting, a Belfast City Councillor for the DUP, about her journey into politics and the importance of community advocacy.  Sarah shares her experiences growing up in a working-class estate and the challenges faced by her community, including educational underachievement, unemployment, and hidden poverty.  She discusses her work in supporting local groups with li...

In this episode of *Policy360: Unplugged*, Northern Ireland MLA Claire Sugden discusses her decision to remain an independent politician and the challenges of navigating a political landscape often dominated by party interests.  She reflects on the limitations of the Good Friday Agreement, the importance of prioritising public services, and her advocacy for older people, rural communities, and age...

In this episode of **Policy360: Unplugged**, I sit down with Colin McGrath, MLA for the SDLP, to explore his journey from youth work to a significant role in Northern Ireland's government.  Colin discusses the importance of staying grounded in the community, his commitment to helping others, and the challenges and responsibilities of serving as part of the opposition.  We delve into the criti...

In this episode, we delve into the political journey of Councillor Andrew Wilson, a dedicated Ulster Unionist Party representative. Andrew shares his inspiring story, from his early days in community involvement to becoming a Councillor in local government. We explore the significance of understanding and addressing constituents' concerns, the value of face-to-face engagement, and the importa...

In this compelling episode, I sit down with Matthew O'Toole, SDLP MLA and Leader of the Opposition, to explore the personal and professional experiences that inspired his political journey, particularly in light of Brexit.  We discuss the critical need for a focus on delivery and improving public services, emphasising the importance of opposition in holding governing parties accountable.  Mat...

In this episode, I sit down with Robbie Butler, Deputy Leader of the Ulster Unionist Party and MLA, to explore effective strategies for engaging with policy makers. Robbie shares his experiences and provides an insider’s perspective on what it’s like to work alongside a Minister in the Executive. Tune in for valuable insights and practical advice on navigating the political landscape. Support the...

Welcome to “Policy 360: Unplugged,” where we peel back the layers of policy intricacies with insightful conversations. I’m your host, Ellen Finlay, and today, we have a special guest joining us, Katy Hayward from Queen’s University Belfast. Together, we’ll delve into the realm of charity engagement with the European Union post-Brexit. As the UK charts a new course outside the EU, charities must ad...

Welcome to “Policy 369 Unplugged,” hosted by Ellen Finlay. In this podcast, we explore the art of influencing policies at Westminster, featuring an exclusive interview with MP Claire Hanna. Join us as we delve into the significance of establishing connections with politicians and unravel the strategies behind effective advocacy. Get ready for an engaging conversation and expert insights into the w...

I’m thrilled to invite you to listen to this enlightening podcast where I had the pleasure of conversing with Rebekah McCabe from Involve. Together, we explore the fascinating realm of participatory democracy and community empowerment, shedding light on the transformative work being done in Northern Ireland. Join us for an engaging discussion as we delve into Rebekah’s insights and experiences, of...

In this episode, I sit down with Shannon O'Connell, Director of Policy and Programmes at Westminster Foundation for Democracy, to discuss her extensive experience in politics, policy advocacy, and elections. From her work with women candidates to her global engagements, Shannon shares insights on fostering inclusive political environments, advancing women's participation, and driving mea...

Join me for an insightful episode of as I sit down with Michelle Gildernew, Sinn Fein Member of Parliament, to delve into the strategies and tactics behind effectively influencing decisions at Westminster. As a seasoned politician and advocate, Michelle shares her firsthand experiences and expertise on navigating the complex political landscape, championing key issues, and making an impact within...