Health Minister delays decision on Core Grant Funding
Following a meeting today with the Health Minister, Robin Swann MLA, regarding Core Grant funding for the Community and Voluntary Sector, Pauline Leeson, Chief Executive of Children in Northern Ireland, said:
“We thank the Health Minister, Robin Swann MLA, for taking the time to meet with some of the organisations affected by the 50% cut to core funding.
“Lots of community groups, charities – and the people they support – are waiting for urgent clarity on funding for this year.
“It is clear that the Minister fully understands and values the work that our organisations do to support and advocate for the most vulnerable people in our society.
“However, it is disappointing that the Minister and his Department have yet to make a decision on core funding. It is essential that they prioritise this small direct investment, which generates a huge return in terms of early intervention, prevention and reducing pressure on statutory health and social care services.
“We are now 4 weeks into the new financial year and an Executive Budget has been agreed. Despite the difficulties faced by the Minister in terms of the allocation for the Department of Health, core-funded organisations and the vulnerable groups in society that they support cannot wait any longer for a decision to be made.
“It is time to prioritise resources towards support and services for those most in need; and ensure the sustainability of those community groups and charities that contribute so much to our wider health and social care system.”
Health Minister delays decision on Core Grant Funding
Following a meeting today with the Health Minister, Robin Swann MLA, regarding Core Grant funding for the Community and Voluntary Sector, Pauline Leeson, Chief Executive of Children in Northern Ireland, said:
“We thank the Health Minister, Robin Swann MLA, for taking the time to meet with some of the organisations affected by the 50% cut to core funding.
“Lots of community groups, charities – and the people they support – are waiting for urgent clarity on funding for this year.
“It is clear that the Minister fully understands and values the work that our organisations do to support and advocate for the most vulnerable people in our society.
“However, it is disappointing that the Minister and his Department have yet to make a decision on core funding. It is essential that they prioritise this small direct investment, which generates a huge return in terms of early intervention, prevention and reducing pressure on statutory health and social care services.
“We are now 4 weeks into the new financial year and an Executive Budget has been agreed. Despite the difficulties faced by the Minister in terms of the allocation for the Department of Health, core-funded organisations and the vulnerable groups in society that they support cannot wait any longer for a decision to be made.
“It is time to prioritise resources towards support and services for those most in need; and ensure the sustainability of those community groups and charities that contribute so much to our wider health and social care system.”
