16 March 2005
SPELLAR ACTS TO PROTECT WOMEN’S ORGANISATIONS
The Minister for Social Development, John Spellar MP, has announced short-term funding of £1.1 million to support a number of women’s organisations who are facing financial difficulties.
The funding will enable the groups to continue to provide key services such as childcare, training and education over the next six months period whilst alternative longer-term funding from a variety of government departments and agencies is considered. The Minister said:
"I am aware that many women’s organisations would have faced a financial crisis, if this relief was not provided. Therefore, I decided to provide this immediate support for the women’s sector which has and continues to make a major contribution towards peace building and social cohesion in socially disadvantaged communities.
"This will allow them to continue to provide valuable services on which many people in their communities depend. But I am aware that this action will only provide a short-term solution. I am establishing a review group to consider the longer-term funding for women’s sector. This group will be led by DSD and will involve representatives from key funding departments and agencies and representatives from the women’s sector. The review group will report to me and recommend actions within the six month period of this programme."
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- For further information please contact Derek Black on 028 9082 9497.
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