Belfast City Council's People and Communities Committee has agreed to a review into funding for the city's summer schemes. The proposal, brought forward by Alliance Councillor Fiona McAteer and seconded by Councillor Christine Bower, aims to ensure providers have the necessary resources to deliver the best possible services for families. Councillor McAteer stated that the cost of living crisis has had a "massive impact" on the delivery of council-funded summer schemes. She explained that smaller budgets, due to the rising costs of things like food, energy, and staffing, mean providers are unable to offer the full extent of the services they would like.

Summer schemes are an "invaluable resource" for lower-income families, providing affordable childcare and social and educational experiences for children and young people. However, if the financial packages provided by the council do not cover the increasing costs, there is a risk that providers will be unable to offer the same level of service in the future.

The motion asks council officers to explore how budgets can be increased to allow providers to continue offering "first class services without placing more financial burden on hard-working parents." The committee is now awaiting the findings of the report.