Northern Ireland Office

In addition to the £61 million fund for Children and Young People which will be launched  tomorrow, the Secretary of State announced an additional £14.6 million to help support voluntary and community groups in their work with disadvantaged children.

Speaking during a visit to Corpus Christi College, Falls Road, Belfast, the Secretary of State said: “Tomorrow I will announce details of a major funding package for children and young people. This investment will make a real difference for children living in disadvantaged areas.

“In addition to this, there are a number of worthwhile projects already up and running, for which funding was due to end shortly. However, I want to ensure that children continue to benefit from them. Therefore I am delighted to announce that additional funding of £14.6 million will be given to extend such projects for another two years.

"These have a valuable role to play and will complement the range of activities I will be announcing tomorrow under the new Children and Young People Funding Package.”

In conclusion, the Secretary of State said this is a further demonstration of Government’s commitment to children and a recognition of the valuable contribution the voluntary and community sector makes to the lives of children.

Notes to Editors

The additional £14.6 million comprises an additional £6.3 million will be available in 2006/07 and £8.3 million in 2007/08.

Tomorrow, the Secretary of State is expected to announce full details of the Children and Young People Package, which was profiled in his budget plans last year.