UNISON has warned that hundreds of community workers in Northern Ireland risk losing their jobs because of a funding crisis. The union states these workers provide frontline health and social care services to families across the region.

The organisation claims the crisis will affect service users who are at risk and rely on the support to remain safe, well, and connected. UNISON representatives have called on the Northern Ireland Assembly to take immediate and decisive action.

The union has also urged the Secretary of State to meet obligations by allocating sufficient funding to sustain the services. A UNISON spokesperson described the community and voluntary sector as a vital pillar of support for vulnerable people in society.

The spokesperson noted that the sector delivers essential frontline services relied on daily by individuals, families, and communities. Without urgent intervention, hundreds of skilled workers face job losses, according to the union.

UNISON stated that service reductions or withdrawals would leave at-risk users without needed support. The union warned that inaction would increase pressure on public services already under strain.