UK Government Grants £1 Million to Empower Northern Ireland Community Group

Co-operation Ireland, in collaboration with Rural Action and NICVA, is set to receive up to £1 million over a three-year period from the Northern Ireland Office’s Community Partnership Fund. This funding will support the launch of the ‘On the Radar: Pathways to Stronger Communities’ project, which aims to engage numerous grassroots organisations across Northern Ireland by providing tailored assistance.

By uniting their considerable expertise in the community and voluntary sector, the three organisations intend to offer support that ranges from initial idea-generating workshops to intensive mentoring for 30 core organisations. Moreover, they will provide training focused on securing funding for up to 500 groups.

Support for Grassroots Initiatives

During the launch event held at Co-operation Ireland’s headquarters in Belfast, Baroness Ruth Anderson, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the NIO, commended the vital role played by Northern Ireland’s community and voluntary sector.

She remarked, “This £1 million grant award is a significant achievement for Co-operation Ireland, Rural Action, and NICVA, as well as for the community and voluntary organisations throughout Northern Ireland. This funding will empower them to serve as a ‘single front door’ for the sector, leveraging their considerable expertise in areas such as rural community development and cross-community peacebuilding to support smaller local groups.”

Baroness Anderson further emphasised, “The Community Partnership Fund will be instrumental in creating a network of skills, knowledge, and support, enabling organisations across Northern Ireland to thrive and ultimately benefit their communities.”

Empowering Local Groups

Stephen Dallas, Chief Executive of Co-operation Ireland, acknowledged the importance of the initiative, stating, “At Co-operation Ireland, we engage with volunteers and groups embedded within communities across Northern Ireland daily. We recognise that smaller grassroots organisations often struggle to access funding and development opportunities.”

He added, “The backing from the Community Partnership Fund is greatly appreciated, and the On the Radar Programme will elevate the crucial work of these groups, assisting them in securing funding and empowering individuals to pursue their ambitions and ideas.”

Collaborative Efforts for Community Development

Celine McStravick, Chief Executive of NICVA, expressed pride in collaborating with Co-operation Ireland and Rural Action, stating, “Together, we will leverage our extensive knowledge of the voluntary and community sector alongside our expertise in organisational development, governance, funding, and sustainability.”

She pointed out, “Many grassroots groups contribute significantly to our communities while lacking access to the necessary skills, resources, and opportunities to fulfil their potential. This programme aims to address that by meeting groups where they are and working collaboratively to strengthen their foundations for the future.”

Focus on Rural Communities

Teresa Canavan, Chief Executive of Rural Action, highlighted the dedication of local volunteers and community organisations in rural areas, stating, “Our rural communities rely on the commitment and resilience of these groups. However, it is common for those working tirelessly to enhance the lives of others to be overlooked or encounter barriers in accessing funding and support.”

She concluded, “We warmly welcome the emphasis this programme places on engaging and supporting rural community groups, enabling them to build their capacity to deliver essential services within their localities.”