Registered charities in Northern Ireland can apply for grants to support people waiting for Health and Social Care (HSC) inpatient, daycase or outpatient treatment. The Support While Waiting Grant Scheme is provided by the Department of Health.

The scheme aims to help individuals maintain or improve their physical, mental and social wellbeing while waiting for treatment. Supported activities may include practical assistance, mental health support and help with managing their own health.

A total of £500,000 is available, with grants ranging from £5,000 to £30,000.

Eligible applicants must be registered charities operating in Northern Ireland and have relevant experience delivering health, wellbeing or social support services.

Projects must directly support people currently on HSC waiting lists and provide free, accessible and person-centred support. They should complement existing HSC services, reduce barriers to participation and take account of participants' diverse needs. Projects must also have appropriate safeguarding arrangements and contribute to reducing health inequalities.

Funding can cover costs directly linked to project delivery, including volunteer expenses, sessional practitioner costs, a proportion of staff salaries, materials, resources, venue hire and targeted marketing or educational activity. Reasonable overheads of up to 10% may also be included.

The deadline for applications is 6 November 2026. For more information, please visit Support While Waiting Grant Scheme 2026/27 | Department of Health

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July 28, 2026

Radius Housing Achieves Platinum-Level Tenant Participation Accreditation

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Choice Housing becomes the first social housing provider to achieve Platinum Tenant Participation Accreditation

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