The Banbridge District is developing rapidly in terms of the number of community groups and their capacity. With over 200 community and voluntary organisations, the District’s community sector has become increasingly diverse in recent years. This sector is covered by two community networks:

• ABC Community Network
• TADA Rural Support Network 

These two agencies together with Banbridge District Council provide a comprehensive community support service in the area. Dominant issues among these groups continue to be the development of a strong community infrastructure, access to funding, increased participation and volunteering, support of the social economy, capacity building, engagement and social inclusion. These groups are continually working towards improving health, environment and rural regeneration as well as addressing women’s issues.

According to the 2001 Census, the largest religious denomination is Protestant (50%+) and the largest ethnic minority group in the area is Chinese. The population indicated that they belonged to the following denominations:

Religion	Total	% of Population
Catholic	11,837	28.6
Presbyterian Church in Ireland	12,343	29.7
Church of Ireland	7,354	17.9
Methodist Church in Ireland	865	2.1
Other Christian	3,750	9
Other religions and philosophies	66	0.1
No religion or religion not stated	5,177	12.6