To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of (i) the contribution that core grant funding has made to the ability of the community and voluntary sector to operate and provide services; and (ii) the impact of cuts to this funding.

I recognise the challenging financial environment in which the Community and Voluntary Sector is currently operating, which is why I have retained some level of core grant support this year despite the funding pressures also facing the health and social care system and the inequity of the existing closed scheme.

I fully recognise the important role played by the Sector in the delivery of many of our strategic aims - for example, supporting the elderly, providing much needed help to vulnerable children and families and addressing health inequalities.

While the funding pot available for core grant going forward will be dependent upon the Department’s future budget allocations, I want to make it clear that I am committed to supporting the sector, and to seeking its support and involvement in co-designing a new scheme.