Insight and latest updates from our team

We are excited to announce that we are starting a new project in partnerhsip with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), to support The Voluntary and Community Sector in NI with their awareness and confidence levels when it comes to data protection. 

eBay and easyfundraising have teamed up to help you make an even bigger difference in your community this autumn, with the £5,000 Big Give. Together, they’re donating £500 to ten community organisations this month.

Want to sharpen how your organisation plans, measures and communicates impact?

We're offering a limited number of free, personalised 1-to-1 online sessions to help you take practical steps forward - whether you're just starting out or ready to refresh your approach.

As poverty deepens and inequality continues to rise across Northern Ireland, the Anti-Poverty Strategy Group - a coalition of civil society organisations including NICVA - has released an updated set of recommendations urging the NI Executive to take decisive and meaningful action to address poverty, its root causes and impact.

Delve into the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. This training will cover legal requirements, the benefits of a diverse workforce, and strategies for fostering an inclusive culture. 

Explore the importance of work-life balance and its impact on employee retention. This session will offer insights into flexible working arrangements, health and wellness programmes, and mental health support. Learn how to create a supportive environment that promotes physical and mental wellbeing. 

This session focuses on fostering employee engagement and motivation within the Voluntary and Community Sector. Learn strategies for regular feedback, recognition programmes, and career development opportunities that can help create a culture of collaboration and innovation. 

The voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland has always stepped up to meet need, often working with people and communities who are furthest from opportunity. The latest data collated by NICVA shows the scale of that impact through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) – and it reinforces why urgent clarity about future investment through the UK Local Growth Fund is critical.

This summer we asked you - our members - to share your views on NICVA. Thank you to the 124 organisations who took the time to complete our membership survey. Your feedback gives us a clear picture of what’s working well and where we can do more to support you.

Heart Failure Warriors NI is a fast-growing charity offering vital support to people across Northern Ireland affected by heart failure — including pre- and post-transplant patients, Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) recipients, and their families and carers.

From March 2026, the Local Growth Fund is expected to take over from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), as announced in UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Spring Statement. But here in Northern Ireland, we still don’t know how it’s going to be rolled out — and that continued uncertainty is a real concern.

Virgin Media O2 is unlocking up to £1 million in funding to help small businesses, charities, social enterprises, and local authorities recruit and train the next wave of apprentices — creating real career opportunities that power long-term growth.

NICVA’s Director of Policy and Insight, Jonny Currie, provides a summer update on our policy and public affairs work in support of the voluntary and community sector across Northern Ireland.

NICVA’s autumn 2025 digital plans will offer targeted support, peer learning, and practical tools to help the sector grow in confidence and capability.

We know that effective communication is crucial for organisations - it's how we build trust, amplify impact, and connect with those we serve. This training series will give you the tools and confidence you need to launch a successful podcast, develop a social media strategy, generate social media posts and communicate your message with the media.

Is your organisation planning staff and board development this autumn?

Are you looking for practical, tailored training that meets your needs?

Do you want to offer your team opportunities for networking, peer learning, and action-focused growth?

NICVA’s Autumn Training Calendar is for you.

The National Joint Council for Local Government Services pay agreement has been confirmed for 2025-2026. The pay offer was for an increase of 3.2 percent per annum on all NJC pay points with effect from 1 April 2025.

At NICVA, we’re committed to celebrating and supporting the incredible work of our members. That’s why we’re offering a unique opportunity to be featured in our Member Spotlight—with the added benefit of a personal visit from our team.

Launched earlier this month by the Communities Minister, the new Partnership Agreement between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) in Northern Ireland in Northern Ireland sets out a renewed commitment to working together. It recognises the vital role the sector plays in delivering public services and supporting communities across Northern Ireland.

The ILM Level 5 in Leadership and Management delivered by NICVA is more than just a qualification — it’s a transformative experience that builds confidence, sharpens leadership skills, and empowers people to lead with purpose.