Belfast News Letter Lifestyle

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons pressed to match Andy Burnham ambition to end rough sleeping

Philip Bradfield — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 17:59:19 GMT

Stormont’s minister for homelessness has been pressed to match the Prime Minister’s ambitions on ending the problem – with some 61 homeless people dying in Northern Ireland each year.

'We look forward to building on the strong foundations': Northern Ireland firm expands electrical services with London acquisition

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 17:32:45 GMT

The deal by Precision Group strengthens the group's building and maintenance division and broadens its range of services across the island of Ireland

'This is an important appointment for us': Northern Ireland holding firm appoints new group operations chief

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 17:09:27 GMT

Jordon Hauge joins Openfolde in a newly created role as it looks to strengthen efficiency and customer service across its UK and Irish businesses

'Marking another exciting chapter in the growth of our business': Northern Ireland estate agent to open sixth office

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 16:34:43 GMT

The new Ormeau Road branch will expand the independent firm's south Belfast presence, bringing its network to six offices and its workforce to more than 40

'Exceptional lawyers': Northern Ireland law firm strengthens leadership team with appointment of two new directors

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 16:22:53 GMT

Emma McCaul and Ellen Hartles join the board, strengthening the leadership team at the Belfast-headquartered firm with offices across Ireland

Belfast vet prescibed meds in advance to help dogs navigate Halloween fireworks

Philip Bradfield — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 15:07:59 GMT

A Belfast vet says he has successfully helped patients navigate Halloween fireworks by dispensing sedatives to his usual customers weeks in advancea.

'Such a phenomenal reception': Northern Ireland hotel creates new management role after successful first six months

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 13:41:34 GMT

The Bedford Hotel is recruiting a deputy general manager following strong guest demand and recognition at the Georgina Campbell Irish Food & Hospitality Awards

‘Shipbuilding is returning to Belfast': New £157m investment marks major milestone in Harland & Wolff revival

Rebecca Black — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 13:16:29 GMT

The new fabrication hall will support construction of three Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships and 900 skilled jobs and apprenticeships in Belfast

'Clear opportunities for future growth': Historic Belfast hotel sold to hospitality operator for undisclosed sum

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 13:02:54 GMT

The 1852 Hotel, a 21-bedroom property in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter, has been sold by Ringland Group after more than a decade of ownership, with its existing management team remaining in place

‘They have carried me through some very difficult days’: Northern Ireland councillor’s moving tribute after cancer treatment milestone

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 12:31:02 GMT

Lauren Kendall, who was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer, thanks health staff as she completes her sixth chemotherapy session and urges others to check for symptoms

Race is on to gather 100 nativity scenes from around the world for ‘Nativity Festival’

Philip Bradfield — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 12:14:44 GMT

One hundred nativity scenes from all around the world are being gathered together for an unusual Christmas display near Portadown.

'Together we can offer our customers a far more': Northern Ireland lift group acquires specialist London engineering firm

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 12:13:58 GMT

Re-Ropes, part of Mallusk-based WH Scott Group, has acquired south London steel fabricator Bluecoat Engineering in a deal that brings together complementary lift refurbishment and modernisation services

'A powerful statement of confidence': Lisburn firm announces £20m investment and more than 100 new jobs in Northren Ireland

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 11:58:55 GMT

Major growth programme reinforces Northern Ireland's position in energy innovation and digital grid technology

'Play a pivotal role in supporting delivery for our clients': Professional services firm welcomes 63 new hires to Belfast office

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 11:21:31 GMT

Graduate, apprenticeship and placement appointments will strengthen the firm's audit, tax and technology divisions as it continues to invest in Northern Ireland talent

35 best Christmas gifts for 2026 from £2.99 for her, him and beauty lovers

Julie Bayley — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 10:22:55 GMT

From £2.99 stocking fillers and Secret Santa ideas to luxury beauty, cosy gifts and presents for hard-to-buy-for men and women, these are 35 Christmas gifts worth considering in 2026.

'I'm excited to see where it goes next': Bangor artist's leap of faith turns an online hobby into a growing Northern Ireland business

Claire Cartmill — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 10:16:55 GMT

Love Your Local: Bangor artist Richard Kerrigan on turning an anonymous social media page into a growing creative brand, landing major commissions and taking his work to new audiences

'It is an incredibly proud moment': UK and Ireland law firm hosts landmark client event

Business reporter — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 09:19:29 GMT

UK and Ireland law firm Browne Jacobson hosted its first major client event in Belfast last week, marking a landmark moment in the firm's commitment to building an integrated presence across the island of Ireland.