Final funding call for Belfast community projects working to end violence against women and girls

The deadline is approaching for Belfast-based community and voluntary organisations to apply for grants to support projects aimed at tackling violence against women and girls.

Applications for Tier 2 and Tier 3 of the Local Change Fund must be submitted by Monday 17 February at 12pm. Projects applying for Tier 1 support must apply at belfastcity.gov.uk/funding by Friday 28 February at 12pm.

The Local Change Fund is one of 11 local funds set up to support the Northern Ireland Executive’s seven-year Strategic Framework, led by the Executive Office, to End Violence Against Women and Girls.

Up to £25,000 is available for individual projects working to change the attitudes, behaviours and cultures that cause violence against women and girls, promote healthy, respectful relationships and help women and girls to feel, and be, safe everywhere.

Successful Tier 1 projects will receive a maximum of £5,000, Tier 2 will award schemes between £5,000 and £15,000 and Tier 3 will provide grants of between £15,000 and £25,000.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, is urging groups to check out the funding available and help make a difference in local communities.

“We all have a responsibility to work together to tackle this vital issue which impacts everyone in our city,” he said.

“Everyone has a right to feel, and be, safe – at home, in the workplace, in public spaces.

“These grants will support community leaders to deliver real change across Belfast, by raising awareness, changing attitudes and tackling the root causes.”

Along with the Local Change Fund, Belfast City Council is also providing free training for community and voluntary groups, led by Belfast and Lisburn Women’s Aid, to increase their understanding of the issues linked to ending violence against women and girls.

A number of other council-run initiatives are also underway, including free personal safety events in community centres and individual area events across Belfast, delivered with local advice and women’s centres. A bystander conference will also take place in March, focusing on the key role of men and boys in advocating and championing positive behaviours.

Full details of what’s on, and how to book for all events, is on the council website at belfastcity.gov.uk/endviolence