Northern Ireland Social Fund gets £5.6 million boost

A further £5.6 million cash injection for the Northern Ireland Social Fund will provide extra support for some of the most needy people in society.

Announcing the discretionary budget for 2003/2004, the Minister for Social Development, Des Browne MP, said: "Access to the Social Fund is essential to some of the most needy and vulnerable people in Northern Ireland and I am sure that this increase will make a real difference. "

The announcement includes £44.80 million for Social Fund loans and an increase of £0.94 million for grants.

The Social Fund helps people on low incomes with expenses that are difficult to meet from their regular income. It has two elements:

1. The Discretionary Fund budget is funded by the Department of Finance and Personnel, and covers Budgeting Loans, Crisis Loans and Community Care Grants.

2. The Regulated Fund covers Funeral Payments, Sure Start Maternity Grants, Cold Weather Payments and Winter Fuel Payments.