Debt advice funding extended across Northern Ireland after strong results show impact on finances and wellbeing

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons pictured with Julia Cleeland, Operations Director, Mid & East Antrim Community Advice Service, and Paul Frew MLA at a recent visit to Mid & East Antrim Community Advice Service.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has confirmed a key funding programme designed to help people access debt advice earlier and more easily will continue into 2026-27, following strong early results across all 11 council areas in Northern Ireland.

The Integrated Advice Partnership Fund, first launched in November 2024, has already delivered £1.7 million to councils to support locally tailored initiatives aimed at improving access to regulated debt advice and strengthening referral pathways into the NI Debt Advice Service.

Strong early results prompt extension

Announcing the extension, the Minister said the programme is already making a measurable difference to people’s lives, particularly those struggling with financial pressures.

“When I launched the Integrated Advice Partnership Fund, my priority was to make sure that people across Northern Ireland could access debt advice earlier, more easily, and in places where they already feel supported.

“The early results clearly show that this approach is working. Councils and community partners have demonstrated real innovation, strengthening local networks and helping people get the advice they need. I am pleased to confirm that, because of this success, I will extend the Fund into 2026/27, which will enable this vital work to continue.”

Feedback from those using the services has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the impact of bringing advice directly into communities.

According to survey results:

• 96% of respondents were satisfied with the advice received in partnership settings

• 92% said they felt more in control of their finances

• 95% reported improved mental health or emotional wellbeing

• 95% were satisfied with referral processes

Alongside this, the programme has invested significantly in building local expertise, with 81 training sessions delivered to 455 staff across participating organisations.

New funding to expand reach and sustain services

To continue the programme, approximately £449,000 has now been allocated for 2026-27. This funding will maintain the partnerships and referral pathways already established, while also supporting efforts to reach more people who may be reluctant to seek help.

It will also allow local delivery partners to refine their existing services or introduce new approaches based on feedback and learning gathered during the initial phase.

Since its launch, councils have commissioned a wide range of initiatives designed specifically for their communities, working alongside advice providers, community organisations, housing support groups, GPs, schools, churches, food banks and specialist charities.

Local impact in Mid and East Antrim

In Mid and East Antrim, the programme has supported the work of Mid & East Antrim Community Advice Service, which has received funding through the local council to strengthen its debt advice offering.

Operations Director Julia Cleeland said the impact locally has been significant:

“This fund has been vital in strengthening our debt advice service, enabling us to meet clients exactly where they are in their financial journey. It has given people the time, space and specialist support they need to navigate difficult circumstances without pressure.

“The investment has also allowed us to employ a dedicated Financial Wellbeing Co-ordinator who delivers outreach, provides talks across the community, and raises awareness of the support available.

“Demand for debt support continues to rise across Mid & East Antrim, and this funding has made a meaningful and tangible difference to individuals and families across our community.”

The service has focused on increasing awareness, expanding outreach, and ensuring support is accessible to those who might otherwise struggle to engage with traditional advice channels.

How the programme is funded

The Integrated Advice Partnership Fund complements the NI Debt Advice Service, which is delivered regionally by Advice NI.

Funding for debt advice services is ringfenced and raised through a levy on the financial services sector by HM Treasury, before being distributed across the nations of the UK.

How to access help

Anyone in Northern Ireland seeking support with debt can contact the Advice NI Debt & Money Service Freephone helpline on 0800 915 4604, available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, or visit www.adviceni.net/debt for further information.

With demand for debt support continuing to rise, the extension of the fund ensures that community-based advice services can remain accessible, responsive, and equipped to support individuals and families facing ongoing financial challenges.

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At a glance

• Integrated Advice Partnership Fund extended into 2026-27

• Programme first launched in November 2024 with £1.7 million funding

• Around £449,000 allocated for the extension year

• Delivered across all 11 council areas in Northern Ireland

• 96% satisfied with advice received

• 92% feel more in control of finances

• 95% report improved mental health or wellbeing

• 81 training sessions delivered to 455 staff

• Mid & East Antrim Community Advice Service among funded organisations

• Freephone helpline: 0800 915 4604 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)