£1.3m Boost For Debt Advice Services In Northern Ireland

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA has announced the allocation of £1.3 million for an Integrated Advice Partnership Fund. This funding will be administered by local councils to enhance existing debt services and provide alternative pathways to debt advice for individuals and families across Northern Ireland.

The Minister revealed the news in an Oral Statement to the Assembly. The fund will enable councils to commission collaborative projects between local organisations and advice providers, ensuring that debt advice services are more accessible in areas with high demand.

By investing in these partnerships, the Minister aims to empower individuals and families to overcome financial difficulties and improve their overall well-being.

Welcoming the fund, Minister Lyons said: "The Integrated Advice Partnership Fund will promote a community-focused approach to debt advice provision. We know that, despite the pressing need for debt advice, there remains a significant gap between those who could benefit from it and those actively seeking and taking up that support." The Minister continued: "In developing this Fund, we engaged with groups such as Christians Against Poverty and Trussell Trust, who are working with those impacted by disadvantage. It is these groups and others working in their local communities who will be involved in these local partnership models to leverage their expertise and broaden our reach."

"By enabling organisations to work together, we can draw on their combined expertise and resources, making it possible to deliver tailored advice that is responsive to the complex needs of our citizens."

Concluding, Minister Lyons said: "This initiative will complement the existing NI Debt Advice Service provided by my department through our partner, Advice NI. Together, we have built a strong foundation of support for those facing financial hardship, and this new fund will complement that provision. This fund reflects my commitment to making support available to people in every corner of Northern Ireland. By working closely with local councils and community organisations, we can ensure that those facing financial difficulties will be able to access the support they need, when they need it."