The Executive Office opens call for applications to the 2024/25 Central Good Relations Fund

The Executive Office is now inviting eligible groups to apply now to the 2024/25 Central Good Relations Fund (CGRF).

The CGRF, which is funded by The Executive Office supports constituted voluntary and community sector groups to deliver good relations projects which contribute to the key priorities of the Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC) Strategy: Children and Young People, Shared Community, Safe Community and Cultural Expression.

Chris Gardner, Director of Good Relations and T:BUC explained:

“Since 2016, the fund has awarded over £25 million enabling the delivery of over 780 projects and supporting more than 260,000 people across the region”.

“The fund, which is designed to support delivery of projects in areas where there is a Good Relations need can make a positive difference to both participants and the wider community”.

“Groups can use a wide range of activities such as sport, music, drama, arts and crafts, to engage with and make a difference in local communities by building peace and reconciliation. Projects can also provide important opportunities to develop new skills, gain qualifications, build self-confidence and develop new friendships, while celebrating and embracing cultural diversity”.

“I would encourage all groups to apply”.

Mr Gardner said that applications are particularly welcome for good relations projects that include a focus on:

• Developing the capacity within and across communities to build good relations;
• Involving the most hardest to reach participants ie those from areas of GR need who have not previously participated in GR projects;
• Delivering against the T:BUC Key Priority – Our Safe Community;
• Environmental activities and benefits; and
• Social Action activities; and

In addition, applications from the Mid Ulster District Council and Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon District Council areas are particularly encouraged.

Concluding Chris Gardner said:

“This annual fund is extremely competitive with funding sought always exceeding available resources.  Last year, there was £1.4m available, however, we received 201 applications seeking a total funding of £7.36m. Consequently, in any year, it is not possible to support all worthwhile projects and difficult decisions had to be made.

“While a budget has not yet been confirmed for 2024/25,  TEO wants to ensure that we are in a position to give whatever support we can to the Fund, which is why we are asking for expressions of interest now.”

Further information and guidance on how to apply can be found at - https://www.executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk/articles/central-good-relations-fund

The closing date for applications is Monday 22 January 2024 at 4pm.

Notes to editors: 

1. The Central Good Relations Fund (CGRF) supports constituted voluntary and community sector groups to deliver good relations projects which contribute towards the delivery of one of the Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC) Strategy key priorities.
2. The CGRF awards approximately £3million to 100 good relations projects on an annual basis, aiming to positively impact on 30,000-40,000 people every year. Due to budget pressures in 2023/24, only £1.4m was available for delivery of the CGRF.

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