28/11/2024

New Grants Scheme To Tackle Domestic And Sexual Abuse

The Justice and Health Ministers have launched a new small grants scheme aimed at reducing domestic and sexual abuse.

The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Small Grant Scheme will support community and voluntary organisations working with victims of abuse.

Justice Minister Naomi Long said: "We recognise the critical role played by voluntary and community organisations, and local domestic and sexual abuse partnerships in not only providing vital support to victims and survivors, but also in contributing invaluable knowledge, skills and expertise to shape strategic, policy, and operational responses.

"This grant scheme represents an opportunity to further empower these organisations and sustain their frontline efforts.

"The funding will support innovative projects aligned with our strategic objectives, with a focus on driving meaningful change and delivering lasting impacts for those affected by abuse.

"Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by domestic and sexual abuse."

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said: "The work of the voluntary and community sector is invaluable in ensuring that we can collectively reach out to and support those most affected by domestic and sexual abuse.

"The small grants scheme being launched today recognises this and we hope it will enable our partners in this sector to continue their essential work and make a meaningful difference."

A total fund of almost £250,000 is available under the scheme for the 2024/25 financial year, with individual grants of up to £40,000. The grants aim to bolster new initiatives that will help to address the unique challenges faced by victims and survivors of domestic and sexual abuse.

The scheme is also intended to strengthen partnerships, foster innovation and ensure the continued delivery of vital services within our communities.

Member organisations represented on the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Expert Reference Group and/or those represented on the five local Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Partnerships are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to secure funding for transformative projects.

Completed applications for the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Small Grants Scheme should be submitted by noon on 4th December 2024.

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

11 February 2025
New Domestic And Sexual Abuse Advocacy Service Launched
The Department of Justice has announced the appointment of ASSIST NI as the provider of a new advocacy service for victims of sexual and domestic abuse in Northern Ireland.
21 January 2025
New Funding Awarded To Combat Domestic And Sexual Abuse
The Departments of Justice and Health have awarded funding to 11 organisations to enable them to deliver programmes aimed at reducing domestic and sexual abuse. The funding is part of the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Small Grant Scheme, a new initiative under the joint Departments of Justice and Health Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy.
07 February 2025
Civil Service Recognised for Efforts to End Domestic Abuse
Finance Minister John O'Dowd has pledged his support to the Onus Safe Place Campaign, which aims to raise awareness of domestic abuse and encourage people to never commit, condone, or stay silent about it.
10 December 2024
Justice Minister Supports PSNI's Festive Policing Priorities
Justice Minister Naomi Long has visited Omagh PSNI station, where she expressed her support for officers working to keep people safe over the festive season.
12 September 2024
PSNI Welcomes Sentencing Of Man For 'Harrowing' Domestic Assault
The PSNI has welcomed the sentencing of a man at Laganside Crown Court in connection with a domestic assault in North Belfast last year. 32-year-old Jordan Spence was sentenced to 40 months for assault occasioning actual bodily harm, 12 months for false imprisonment, 12 months for criminal damage and 12 months for threats to kill.