Groups encouraged to benefit from health inequalities funding

Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement
Elevate logo with text that says; Health inequalities grants and mentoring programme Applications now open!"

Community and voluntary organisations are being encouraged by the Public Health Agency (PHA) to apply for a grants and mentoring programme to help address health inequalities.

Applications for the Elevate Mentoring and Grants programme, which is being coordinated by the Community Development and Health Network (CDHN), are now open with information available on www.elevateni.org/mentoring-grants-programme

Diane McIntyre, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement at PHA, said: “Community and voluntary organisations are acutely aware of the issues that affect people on the ground and this short-term grants and mentoring programme provides an opportunity to take local action in addressing health inequalities, which is central to the work of the Public Health Agency.

“In previous years, this programme has seen a wide range of organisations participating, which in turn has had, and will continue to have, a positive impact in communities.”

The Elevate programme supports organisations across Northern Ireland to develop skills knowledge and capacity in tackling health inequalities at a local level and provides an opportunity to put collective learning into practice in a supportive and encouraging environment. 

Through Elevate, short-term, non-recurrent funding of up to £5,000 in available per organisation.

CDHN Director Joanne Vance, said: “The Community Development and Health Network is committed to working with the Public Health Agency to promote community-led, equity-focused, preventative approaches to health. By partnering with community mentor organisations, Elevate will support people and local communities to share experiences, identify needs, and drive grassroots actions that tackle health inequalities and promote social inclusion. The programme empowers communities to lead change and improve health and wellbeing, especially in the most disadvantaged areas.

“Our team is looking forward to engaging with any interested community organisations at our information sessions.”

Closing date for applications to the Elevate grants and mentoring programme is 4pm on Friday 27 June 2025.

Information sessions will be held online to find out more about Elevate. Details can be found at www.elevateni.org/our-events  

Ends

Notes to editors

  • Elevate is led by the Community Development and Health Network who have been commissioned by Public Health Agency to deliver a regional capacity-building programme.
  • The Department of Health’s ‘Health Inequalities Report (2024)’ shows that preventable mortality rates are three times higher in the most deprived areas. You can see the report at www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/health-inequalities-annual-report-2024
  • The Elevate programme demonstrates how community-led action and a joined-up, “Health in All Policies” approach are essential to addressing these trends.