Funding Available to Support Those Most Vulnerable to Coronavirus (NI)

Funding Available to Support Those Most Vulnerable to Coronavirus (NI)

Community organisations throughout Northern Ireland who are supporting older people during any isolation period that may arise as a result of the threat of the Coronavirus can apply for grants.

The Community Foundation Northern Ireland has launched a new Fund to offer constituted community organisations emergency funding to deal with issues emerging as a result of the continuing threat of coronavirus and the need for self-isolation which has the potential to further exacerbate the loneliness and isolation of older people (aged 50 and over).

The Foundation plans to award mostly grants of £1,000 but will accept applications for up to £2,500. Projects have to:

Reduce isolation and vulnerability of older people during any isolation period that may arise as a result of the threat of Covid-19.

Support ongoing needs of older people, to ensure that their wellbeing is maintained.

Ensure older people remain connected with the outside world during this time.

The grants can cover running costs (including volunteer expenses, staff costs, and transport) as well as small capital costs.

Examples of eligible projects include:

Enabling older people to keep warm by accessing home heating oil or warm clothes.

Enabling older people to access a nutritious meal by connecting them to services providing groceries, and/or readymade meals.

Enabling and encouraging older people to use and access technology to keep them connected to the outside world.

Reaching out to isolated older people by telephone, and befriending if possible.

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis; however, applications might close within a short space of time if demand exceeds the funding available.