Connect Fund supports communities in Northern Ireland

Three community projects in Northern Ireland will receive nearly £64,000 in the latest round of the Northern Ireland Office’s Connect Fund.

On of the projects, The Castle Community Trust in North Belfast is working to beat veterans' social isolation by helping them to build positive relationships with fellow veterans in Great Britain. The ‘Veterans and Volunteers project’ bring together veterans from Belfast and Shrewsbury in England as part of a programme which will include workshops and exchange trips.

Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Matthew Patrick said: "Once again Connect Fund support is flowing directly into communities in Northern Ireland and across the UK, delivering positive change by supporting veterans in need, amplifying communities’ voices to ensure they are heard, and combatting gender economic inequality.

"Ahead of Remembrance Sunday, I was particularly moved to meet with the Castle Community Trust, and to hear about the positive impact the project is making to curb social isolation amongst veterans who have done so much for us.

"A dozen community organisations are now working with partners across the UK, learning from their shared opportunities and challenges and finding ways forward while strengthening East-West connections."

Chief Executive Officer of Castle Community Trust Jim Crothers said: "We are delighted that the Castle Community Trust has secured funding from the Connect Fund. This will support our veterans’ group (Old Comrades Group) to undertake a process of engagement and development with their counterparts in Great Britain.

"We believe this project will enable participants to come together to share experiences, develop positive relationships, and promote understanding of their service in Northern Ireland."