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21 April 2004

NORTHERN IRELAND SOCIAL FUND GETS £1.65 MILLION BOOST

A further £1.65 million cash injection for the Northern Ireland Social Fund will provide extra support for some of the most needy people in society, the Minister for Social Development, John Spellar MP, said today.

Announcing the discretionary budget for 2004/2005, the Minister said: <

"I am pleased to say that there will be an increase of £ 1.65 million in the Northern Ireland Social Fund budget. This means that a total of £58.25 million will be available.

"The total includes £45.51 million for Social Fund loans, an increase of £0.71 million over last year. The amount available for grants has also increased by £940,000.

"Access to the Social Fund is essential for the most needy and vulnerable people in Northern Ireland and I am sure that this increase will make a real difference."

NOTES TO EDITORS:

  1. The Social Fund helps people on low incomes with expenses that are difficult to meet from their regular income. It has two elements:

      • The Discretionary Fund budget is funded by the Department of Finance and Personnel, and covers Budgeting Loans, Crisis Loans and Community Care Grants.

      • The Regulated Fund covers Funeral Payments, Sure Start Maternity Grants, Cold Weather Payments and Winter Fuel Payments.

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