The Northern Ireland Office has introduced a £1 million Community Partnership Fund to assist voluntary and community organisations throughout Northern Ireland. The programme focuses on groups in rural areas and those lacking formal structures.

A single grant will go to a partnership of established voluntary organisations. These recipients will guide other local groups in project development and funding application skills.

Matthew Patrick, NIO parliamentary under-secretary of state, stated that such organisations raise living standards across Northern Ireland. He indicated the fund provides essential skills, knowledge, and connections for groups doing important work.

The initiative extends previous NIO efforts, including the Connect Fund that gave nearly £500,000 to 21 organisations for various projects. Broader UK government backing covers £310 million for City and Growth Deals plus £40 million for the Pride in Place Programme in Coleraine and Derry-Londonderry.

Patrick noted positive impacts from the Connect Fund on local efforts and called on organisations to collaborate on bids to run the new fund.

The NIO will consult the voluntary sector over the next months before opening a competitive application process later this year.