News Release Page Title

5 April 2005

NORTHERN IRELAND SOCIAL FUND GETS £1.34MILLION BOOST

The Department for Social Development today announced a £1.34million cash injection for the Northern Ireland Social Fund, which will provide extra support for some of the most needy people in society.

Announcing the discretionary Social Fund budget for 2005/2006, the Department said that a total of £59.59million will be available for those people who need help and support.

The total includes £46.17million for Social Fund loans, an increase of £660,000 over last year. The amount available for grants has also increased by £680,000.

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

  1. The Discretionary Fund budget is funded by the Department of Finance and Personnel, and covers Budgeting Loans, Crisis Loans and Community Care Grants.
  2. The Regulated Fund covers Funeral Payments, Sure Start Maternity Grants, Cold Weather Payments and Winter Fuel Payments.

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