The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging community and voluntary organisations across Northern Ireland to apply for its Elevate Mentoring and Grants programme, designed to help tackle health inequalities at a local level.

The programme, coordinated by the Community Development and Health Network (CDHN), is now open for applications.

Diane McIntyre, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement at PHA, highlighted the crucial role of local groups. "Community and voluntary organisations are acutely aware of the issues that affect people on the ground and this short-term grants and mentoring programme provides an opportunity to take local action in addressing health inequalities, which is central to the work of the Public Health Agency," she said. McIntyre noted the positive impact of previous years' programmes on communities.

The Elevate programme aims to equip organisations with the skills, knowledge, and capacity needed to address health inequalities. It provides a supportive environment for collective learning and practical application, allowing groups to put their insights into action. Each participating organisation can receive up to £5,000 in short-term, non-recurrent funding. Joanne Vance, CDHN Director, emphasised the collaborative nature of the initiative. "The Community Development and Health Network is committed to working with the Public Health Agency to promote community-led, equity-focused, preventative approaches to health," she stated. "By partnering with community mentor organisations, Elevate will support people and local communities to share experiences, identify needs, and drive grassroots actions that tackle health inequalities and promote social inclusion. The programme empowers communities to lead change and improve health and wellbeing, especially in the most disadvantaged areas."

Information about the Elevate Mentoring and Grants programme, including details on information sessions, is available on www.elevateni.org/mentoring-grants-programme. The closing date for applications is 4pm on Friday, 27 June 2025.

What are Health Inequalities?

Health inequalities refer to the unfair and avoidable differences in health outcomes between different groups of people. In Northern Ireland, individuals from more deprived backgrounds often experience poorer health and shorter lifespans compared to those who are better off. These disparities are not random but are shaped by social determinants of health, such as income, education, housing, and social support, which are largely beyond an individual's control. The Department of Health's 'Health Inequalities Report (2024)' indicates that preventable mortality rates are three times higher in the most deprived areas of Northern Ireland.

Information sessions will be held online to find out more about Elevate. Details can be found at www.elevateni.org/our-events