The Department of Health’s Core Grant scheme highlights a stark disconnect between government priorities and community needs.

Only 25 of 259 applicants secured £1.8m for 2025/26, a drastic cut from £3.6m pre-2024. This reduction reflects the government’s limited value on wellbeing services provided by the community and voluntary sector.

Green Party NI Councillor Lauren Kendall described the situation as “exploitative,” noting the government relies heavily on voluntary groups yet slashes their funding. “This is an abusive relationship, taking advantage of goodwill in a mental health and homelessness crisis,” she stated.

The lack of support for essential services is particularly concerning given the sector’s role in alleviating state pressures. The Green Party NI demands immediate funding restoration to properly resource community providers.

ENDS