To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) an update on the administration of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Local Change Fund; and (ii) whether their Department plans to re-open applications in 2026.

The Local Change Fund for 2025/26 supports grassroots organisations tackling violence against women and girls. All 11 Councils have established a Local Change Fund to provide grant funding directly to local community groups to understand what violence against women and girls is and take local action to tackle the issue. Currently 125 projects have been allocated funding under the Local Change Fund with a diverse range of activities and are expected to engage with over 48,000 participants.

Additional funding has also been provided to Councils to address the oversubscription of Local Change Funds and support the implementation of local responses, raising awareness and building momentum.

Engagement is ongoing with Councils to consider future delivery of the Local Change Fund under the next EVAWG Delivery Plan running from April 2026 to March 2028.