Cash boost for voluntary and community sector

The voluntary and community sector will benefit from a £15 million Modernisation Fund, Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has confirmed.

The aim of the fund, which is part of a £18m package, will help the voluntary sector modernise and prepare itself for the future.

Grants available will range from £20,000 to £1.5m and are designed to provide equipment and improve facilities.

Encouraging groups to apply for funding, Minister Ritchie said: “Voluntary and community groups have a key role to play in Northern Ireland and many of the most vulnerable people in our community rely on them for a range of services. I want to ensure that such groups have the best possible facilities and equipment and continue to provide a first class service with first class facilities.”

Ms Ritchie added: “I see this fund as an excellent opportunity to reinvigorate the sector and equip it for whatever challenges lie ahead. Society and the public sector are changing and the voluntary and community sector will have to adapt to changing circumstances.

“This investment will enable it to do so and help it continue to be a positive and progressive influence for the community throughout Northern Ireland. I know the sector has been eagerly awaiting this Fund and I look forward to receiving their proposals.”

Seamus McAleavey, Chief Executive of NICVA welcomed the new funding, saying: “These additional monies have been eagerly awaited by the Voluntary and Community Sector.

“I look forward to seeing the considerable investment delivering positive changes that enable the sector to continue to provide much needed support to the people in Northern Ireland.”

The Modernisation Fund places emphasis on providing equipment and facilities for young people in the most disadvantaged areas and helps improve access to services for people with disabilities.

(JM)