Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has developed a Hardship Funding Programme to support constituted/legally governed community and voluntary /not for profit organisations to address hardship due to the current cost of living crisis, particularly the increase in energy and food costs. There is an overall allocation of £140,000 available.

The Hardship Funding Programme is developed in recognition of the difficult financial circumstances which currently exist in the community and voluntary sector, especially in respect of covering basic overheads which have increased substantially in cost.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 12 noon Friday 3rd November. Late applications will not be accepted.

This fund aims to assist local grass roots groups to:

keep their community buildings operational for existing services
provide additionality in programming for local community/individuals who are facing hardship
enhance service delivery by keeping facilities open and possibly longer during the autumn/winter months
provide sustenance and resources for the local community/individuals including supporting or developing community fridge initiatives, addressing fuel poverty, holiday hunger initiatives and/or meal projects
develop or enhance a community planting scheme for materials to grow and supply perishable goods in their community.

For more information and to apply please visit Hardship Funding Programme (lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk)