A community advice charity in Mid Ulster has warned it will have to stop providing services for vulnerable residents unless the local council approves an additional £70,000 in funding.

Fintan McAliskey, CEO of STEP Advice Services, told Mid Ulster District Council's Development Committee on October 15 that the contract for generalist advice has seen almost no increase since 2019. The contract was worth £226,377 in April 2019 and is now £226,657, an increase of £280 over seven years.

"Basically, in seven years there's been a £280 increase in the value of that contract, or a quarter of 1 per cent," McAliskey said.

STEP, which runs offices in Dungannon, Cookstown and Magherafelt, successfully claimed £1.4 million in benefits for residents in the last six months alone. The charity supports around 3,000 to 4,000 clients each year from 20,000 contacts.

The organisation noted that staffing requirements have been reduced over successive tenders. Initially, two qualified advisers were required in each office with a seven-day waiting time for appointments. Now, only one adviser is required per office and the waiting time has increased to 21 days.

McAliskey highlighted the impact of these cuts: "I only need that person to be sick. In fact, in Magherafelt today and yesterday, my adviser phoned in sick. That office had to close because there isn't a second adviser there to allow us to open it."

The cost of employing a full-time adviser has risen by 47 per cent over the same period, from £23,500 in 2019 to £34,500 today, while inflation has increased by 32 per cent. McAliskey said the organisation is being asked to do significantly more with less.

Committee Chair Councillor Córa Corry acknowledged the stark figures, noting she works in advice herself and understands the importance of the service. Strategic Development Manager Martina Totten said the request for additional funding would be considered as part of an annual review of the advice contract. Strategic Director Kieran Gordon confirmed an independent review will begin shortly, with findings to be brought back to the committee for consideration.

McAliskey stressed that while STEP remains committed to delivering the current year's contract until May 2026, it cannot agree to further years without additional funding or a change in specification. He warned that he may have to give three months' notice in January if there is no change, to allow time for a new tender.

The charity has been providing advice, support, advocacy and other services in the area for many years, focusing on helping people navigate complex benefits systems. The organisation argues the social impact of its work is as important as the financial gain brought into the council area.