About

Decorum NI  is a charity which supports and empowers those who served in the security forces (police, prison service and armed forces) during the period of the Troubles in Northern Ireland from 1969 to 2007 (known as Operation BANNER), and their families. It gives a voice to a constituency of need which is often forgotten or misrepresented. Decorum NI works independently and collaboratively to meet the complex physical, mental or social needs of its members and strives to ensure that the true and accurate story of those who served is told in a way that facilitates a better understanding. It seeks to promote, advocate and address the needs of former security force members and their families who have suffered as a result of the violence and to ensure that the legacy of the service given is recognised in an all-encompassing context. Decorum NI is based in Bangor, County Down but draws its membership from across Northern Ireland and beyond.

Over 1,000 members of the security forces were killed whilst serving during the conflict, and a similar number died in service from other causes. Many thousands were injured and bear the mental and physical scars to this day. Had it not been for the men and women who were prepared to stand up for law and order by serving in the police, prison service or armed forces, it would not have been possible to create the conditions whereby a political settlement could be achieved.

Decorum NI is keen to promote reconciliation and its strapline is ‘Remembering the past – building the future’.

Heritage

Decorum NI holds a modest collection of artefacts relating to service in the police, armed forces and prison service during the period of Operation BANNER (August 1969 – July 2007). The collection mainly comprises uniforms and equipment used. A portion of the collection is permanently on display in Decorum’s premises at 26 Balloo Avenue, Bangor and may be viewed by appointment.