Insight and latest updates from our team

NICVA's Director of Policy and Insight Jonny Currie highlights the value of VCS organisations delivering economic inactivity projects, and introduces a key messages paper for continued VCS-led delivery of support for those furthest from the labour market. 

At the heart of every thriving community is a commitment to inclusion, opportunity, and hope. Clanrye Group embodies this spirit, empowering people from all walks of life to overcome barriers and build brighter futures. Through a range of programmes focused on skills development, employability, and well-being, Clanrye Group walks alongside individuals every step of the way, providing not just support, but belief, connection, and real opportunities for lasting change.

Read on to discover their inspiring journey and the impact they’re making in Northern Ireland.

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

As head into summer the days are longer and so are the to-do lists for our sector. While the potential of new funding opportunities for the VCS may be on the horizon, the reality of ongoing financial and policy uncertainty is putting increasing pressure on delivery. 

Outlined below is a summary of how NICVA  is continuing to represent, convene, build capacity and gather insight on the key issues affecting the sector over the past month. 

Sian Mulholland MLA’s private member’s bill, The Lotteries for Communities Bill was launched for consultation on 9 May 2025 and will close on Friday, 5 September 2025.

Today marks the start of Volunteers’ Week 2025 – a UK-wide celebration running from 2–8 June, recognising the invaluable contribution volunteers make to our communities.

We summarise a few of the recent funding announcements for projects, activities and programmes supporting work across the island of Ireland 

On Tuesday members of the All-Party Group on the Voluntary and Community Sector gathered in the Senate Chamber of Parliament Buildings for its May meeting. 

This week NICVA attended an event exploring whether the People's Postcode Lottery could operate in Northern Ireland. 

How we fund social good in Northern Ireland touches the very heart of public service and civic life. It's vital that the voice of the community and voluntary sector is heard in this conversation. 

A new, city-wide initiative has launched to empower communities across Belfast to shape the future of their local areas, strengthen relationships, and build lasting change through collaboration and leadership.

In this Mental Health Awareness Week we know the importance of focusing on wellbeing in NICVA and creating a community where we can support each other.

As Bolster Community celebrates its 20th anniversary, we at NICVA are thrilled to catch up with them and reflect on their incredible journey of fostering connections and enhancing wellbeing. 

Founded by the inspiring Jacinta Linden, Bolster Community has been a beacon of support for local parents, children, and seniors, and has launched impactful programs like Autism Connect. We are proud to have been part of their journey, witnessing their growth and expanded reach. Join us in celebrating their remarkable milestones and successes as they continue to build a connected community where everyone can thrive.

NICVA and business bodies attended a roundtable hosted by Minister John O’Dowd on 6 May on the wider budgetary context, the Department’s Strategic Review of Rates as well as the Cost of Doing Business research.

This Sunday, staff from NICVA along with old staff members will be pounding the streets of Belfast along with thousands of others in the City Marathon.

The Community Foundation for Northern Ireland has updated their Grant FAQs to include information on the use of AI for funding applications, as well as how they will use AI in their own processes.

The Department for the Economy has published its official response to the Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill consultation, setting out some of the most significant proposed changes to employment law in Northern Ireland in decades.

The Community Empowerment Programme (CEP) is being delivered by the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) and a network of community partners from across Belfast. It is part of the Belfast PEACEPLUS Local Community Action Plan, which is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

At NICVA, we know that getting to grips with impact practice can be challenging - especially if you’re just starting out or don’t have dedicated resources. That’s why we offer practical, tailored support to help you build your confidence and approach impact in a way that works for your organisation.

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

NICVA recently submitted a response the Department of Health's public consultation on its Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) of its draft Budget for 2025/26.

On Friday 11 April 2025 NICVA was awash with colour and culture as member organisations from all four corners of Belfast celebrated Cultural Connections as part of Belfast Learning Festival 2025.