The details of the new arrangements which were announced today include an increase in the level of core funding provided to all victims and survivors groups up to £2.75 million.
There will also be a doubling in the amount available to the Community Relations Council for the Development Grant Scheme which supports groups and other voluntary organisations working with victims and survivors. Individual victims will benefit from over £900,000 of funding to be delivered through the Northern Ireland Memorial Fund.
First Minister Peter Robinson said: "The Executive published its budget in January which included a total of £36 million over 3 years for victims and survivors. We have now begun the process of allocating that money to schemes and programmes which directly assist those who have suffered. This sends a clear message to all victims and survivors that their needs are a priority for this Government.
This package represents unprecedented levels of funding to the sector which will enable good work to continue and additional work to commence."
Deputy First Minister: "Groups working with Victims and Survivors provide vital services to this sector of our community. Their contribution to alleviating suffering and promoting dealing cannot be underestimated. We have heard at first hand to difficulties these groups face and we have acted. We have sought to increase the funding available and to ensure that there is a smooth transition between the Peace II and Peace III support packages.
The initiatives we unveiled deliver additional support and securtity to groups working with victims and survivors.."
Notes for Editors:
The funding announced relates to interim arrangements for victims and survivors groups, pending the rolling out of the new strategy over the next few years. It is intended that consultation on the new strategy will commence shortly.
All expressions of interest in the new funding arrangements by groups should be addressed to:
Victims Unit
OFMDFM
Block 5
Knockview Buildings
Belfast BT4 3SL
e-mail: info@victimsni.gov.uk
Freephone: 080 8127 3333
