Justice Minister Naomi Long and Health Minister Mike Nesbitt have visited the Footprints Women's Centre in west Belfast to learn more about a newly established community-based Legal and Justice Advice Project.

The initiative has been made possible through a £29,346 grant from the Domestic and Sexual Abuse (DSA) Strategy Small Grant Scheme. This scheme is a joint venture between the Department of Health and the Department of Justice, designed to empower local organisations to support victims and survivors.

The new project aims to bolster the existing services at the Colinmill-based centre by providing "navigator" assistance. This includes helping women access legal information and advocacy, as well as providing guidance through housing applications and complex court processes.

Minister Naomi Long said: "I want to commend Footprints for the vital work they have been doing in the Colin area for the past 35 years. Since taking up post as Justice Minister, I have been tireless in my commitment to tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence."

She added: "Society can no longer turn a blind eye, or accept domestic abuse and sexual violence as part of 'normal' life. We must challenge old-school attitudes that enable such abuse and instead empower communities, like this one, to intervene. If we can bring about cultural and behavioural change, coupled with legal protections, we can help create a safer society for all."

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt expressed his gratitude for meeting those involved in the programme, noting the essential role of the voluntary sector. Minister Nesbitt stated: "I was very grateful for the opportunity to visit Footprints Women's Centre, learn more about this important project and meet both staff and participants to hear about their experiences. The Small Grants Scheme reflects our recognition of the critical role that community and voluntary organisations play in providing vital assistance to victims of domestic and sexual abuse."

He continued: "I'm delighted that the Scheme was able to fund this crucial work, which is a strong example of how targeted, community-based initiatives can have a real and immediate impact."

During the visit, the Ministers were briefed on the wide spectrum of services offered by the centre, which includes education, training, financial management, and wellbeing support.

Lisa Maclean, CEO of Footprints Women's Centre, said: "Support for women and families experiencing domestic and sexual violence has been a core tenet of Footprints since our inception 35 years ago. The trauma experienced by women in abusive relationships can make their next steps feel uncertain."

She concluded: "We welcome that the departmental funding from Health and Justice allows us to increase the support we provide, lifting the practical and administrative burdens women face, while helping to link the women and their children in with health and wellbeing support. Engaging with Ministers was a valuable opportunity, not only to outline the ongoing importance of accessible services in a trusted, community-based environment, but also to highlight that these persistent and complex issues can only be addressed through ongoing partnerships and collaboration between government and the community and voluntary sector."