£1.8m funding scheme opens for Northern Ireland community and voluntary organisations
Community and voluntary organisations across Northern Ireland are being invited to apply for funding from a new £1.8 million Department of Health grant scheme.
Health Minister Robbie Butler announced the opening of the 2027/28 Core Grant funding scheme on Monday 19 October 2026.
The programme is designed to help eligible organisations meet essential operating costs, allowing them to continue supporting vulnerable people and communities.
Applications are now open, with grants of between £5,000 and £50,000 available.
Funding for community and voluntary organisations
The Department of Health has confirmed that the £1.8 million budget will be divided between four policy areas.
Each will receive an allocation of £450,000.
The funding areas cover public health and reducing health inequalities, supporting adults to live independently, supporting children and young people, and improving mental health and wellbeing.
The Department says the scheme is designed to support at least 64 eligible organisations.
Health Minister recognises financial pressures
Health Minister Robbie Butler acknowledged the important contribution made by community and voluntary organisations across Northern Ireland.
He said these groups provide essential support to vulnerable people and play an important role in health and social care.
The Minister encouraged eligible organisations to submit applications before the November deadline.
However, he acknowledged that the Department was unable to increase the £1.8 million budget because of continuing financial pressures.
What costs can organisations claim?
The Core Grant scheme is intended to help organisations cover fixed operating costs rather than directly funding the delivery of services.
Eligible expenditure includes relevant training, rent, rates, electricity, gas, management and audit costs.
Funding may also contribute towards volunteer expenses and certain equipment purchases.
The 2027/28 scheme introduces changes to the rules governing salary contributions.
Eligible organisations may now seek funding towards up to 30% of a permanent staff member’s annual salary, excluding employer contributions, subject to the scheme’s conditions.
The limit for minor capital items has also changed, with eligible expenditure restricted to less than £5,000 in total.
Applications close on 20 November
Organisations wishing to apply must submit their applications by 12 noon on Friday 20 November 2026.
Application guidance and eligibility information are available through the Department of Health.
The funding is intended to help organisations maintain their operations while continuing to contribute to health and wellbeing across Northern Ireland.
External link: Department of Health — Core Grant Funding Scheme 2027/28
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