McIlveen highlights community funding opportunities

The Assemblyman says he has been active in promoting the uptake of grants for community and voluntary groups over the past 18 months.

He says he has assisted in obtaining funding for a variety of events and projects ranging from senior citizen day trips to restoration of premises, the purchasing of equipment and support for setting up of community based initiatives.

Mr McIlveen said: “I believe that community groups, charities and churches provide an invaluable contribution to North Antrim and I enjoy working with these groups in whatever way I can. I have made it a priority to ensure that the various groups within North Antrim are given the support that they deserve.”

Mr McIlveen has appointed a part-time funding officer who, he says, is keen to liaise with and assist community groups.

He pointed out that the officer’s role includes meeting with groups in order to establish their needs and researching and liaising with appropriate and suitable sources of funding which would benefit them.

“The funding officer will not only signpost the potential applicant and redirect them to a suitable funder but is also available to assist and advise groups on the application process and preparation for funding applications,” said Mr McIlveen.

The assemblyman also highlighted what he described as “a hugely important recent development in the hitherto neglected issue of obtaining funding for Churches and faith groups in the area”.

He said: “The 2013 grants programme operated by the London based National Churches Trust has recently opened and they are anxious to encourage more Churches from Northern Ireland to apply.

“There are lots of potential sources of funding throughout Northern Ireland, much of which is largely overlooked by local groups. I want to ensure uptake is maximised.”

Anyone seeking a meeting with the funding officer can email [email protected]