NIMMA
28 Bedford Street, Belfast
N. Ireland, BT2 7FE
Phone:
(028) 9023 5444
E-mail: nimma@nireland.com

Coming together to create NIMMA

The Northern Ireland Mixed Marriage Association (NIMMA) was started in 1974 following a meeting at Corrymeela Centre for Reconcilliation, Ballycastle. This was attended by couples living in or planning a mixed mixed marriage as well as several supportive clergy. For the first time mixed marriage couples met together and realised the benefits to be found from sharing their experiences.

How NIMMA developed

Since NIMMA was established there have been regular meetings. Initially NIMMA operated from members' homes with Corrymela House in Belfast being a contact address. The association has developed as a mutual support group and in providing support for couples and families and providing information to anyone who contacts us. We also have focussed efforts towards helping the clergy to understand the concept and practicalities of Inter-Church marriage and in influencing the attitude of the local community to mixed marriages and relationships.

Since 1994 NIMMA has had an office in Bedford Street, Belfast and have employed an Administation and Outreach Officer with part time clerical support, thanks to funding from the Community Relations Council.

However, our Management Committee still provide time voluntarily to meet, speak to couples, and address other organisations. We also maintain regular contact with the media, often outside Northern Ireland, and produce leaflets and other publications.

How NIMMA has made a difference

There are many examples of how NIMMA has made a difference to individual couples and to society in general. Of particular importance is time spent working with the clergy to help them understand the particular difficulties, and advantages, of mixed marriages. Find out more.

Another issue we have addressed is housing. Finding the right place to live can be difficult for mixed marriage couples in Northern Ireland. NIMMA continues to influence housing policy in Northern Ireland. Find out more.