NICVA’s Trailblazing Efforts at Stormont: Why Funding the VCS is Essential in Tackling Economic Inactivity

The mile-long Prince of Wales Avenue leading to the font steps of The Parliament Buildings in the Stormont Estate, Belfast

Why were we present at this APG Meeting?

We attended the APG Meeting on the Voluntary & Community Sector on Tuesday, 18th November, 2025 at Stormont - where NICVA released a significant new report from Pivotal on the role and influence of VCS-led strategies in addressing economic inactivity. You can access their report, and further information here - https://tinyurl.com/2p7cpdau

NICVA are doing amazing work and we wholly support their campaign as - truly - NI Can’t Wait

We attended to advocate on behalf of both the residents within the communities we serve and the Voluntary and Community Sector itself, which is shockingly underfunded relative to the level of need. Community-focused organisations, such as ours, possess the potential to make a substantial difference in tackling economic inactivity, provided they are sufficiently supported through adequate funding and government assistance…

It is through the services we offer, our close ties to local communities, and our focus on education, childcare, and community development that we are uniquely positioned to deliver vital services, skills development, and engagement opportunities - all of which are essential in helping individuals overcome employment barriers.

It is within the VCS that trust is built, and tangible results can be observed.

Fund The VCS

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Community Impact

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Invest In Communities

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Skills & Jobs

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Stormont

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Fund The VCS | Community Impact | Invest In Communities | Skills & Jobs | Stormont |

Image Credit: NICVA

Sarah Casey, our Nurture Co-ordinator, is located in the front row - second from the right (wearing green). Others present include NICVA, APG, Dr. James Greer from Pivotal Public Policy Forum, and other VCS Leads.

Image Credit: NICVA

Meeting in Session in The Senate Chamber at Stormont