Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has announced that over 70 community and voluntary (C&V) sector organisations are expected to receive Core Grant funding for the 2026/2027 period.

This represents a significant increase from the 26 groups funded during the previous year.

The expansion was achieved by restructuring the scheme to distribute the available £1.8m budget across a wider range of eligible bodies. The funding is specifically designed to help organisations cover their essential core costs, with a particular focus on supporting smaller groups that often struggle to meet overheads.

The scheme received 247 applications and was divided into four policy funds, each allocated £450,000. These funds focused on public health and health inequalities; supporting independent living for adults with disabilities; assisting vulnerable children and their families; and improving the population's mental health and wellbeing. Following a Stage 1 assessment, 70 groups scored highly enough to receive full funding, while six others are set to receive partial awards, pending final financial viability checks. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said: "I am delighted that more than 70 community and voluntary sector groups have progressed to Stage 2 of the Core Grant funding process. Subject to financial viability checks, these organisations together will receive £1.8m in funding to support them with their core costs. That is more than double the number supported in 2025/2026. While the financial pressures facing my Department meant I was unable to devote more funding to the scheme, I was determined to ensure a larger number of C&V bodies could benefit from it, particularly those smaller organisations which struggle the most to cover their costs. With 247 applicants, however, I acknowledge that there will still be many commendable groups who will be disappointed by the outcome. I deeply value the work of all organisations within the community and voluntary sector as they make a vital contribution in communities right across Northern Ireland. In the coming weeks, my officials will begin contacting those applicants who have been unsuccessful to offer feedback, which it is hoped will be of assistance in applying for future funding rounds. At this stage, it is anticipated that another open call for applications will be issued this Autumn, for funding from April 2027."

Michelle Bolton, Chief Executive of Belfast-based Engage with Age, said: "We are absolutely delighted to receive this news about our Core Grant funding application. As a small charity, Engage with Age works to reduce social isolation and loneliness among older people in Belfast. This investment in our work and in the wellbeing of the older people we serve is invaluable."

Caroline Temple, Manager of Youthlife in Derry/Londonderry, said: "Youthlife is delighted with this news. Core Grant funding will enable us to continue providing vital counselling services for children and young people aged five to 25 who have experienced bereavement, separation, or the loss of a significant person."