Summit marks diversity of voluntary sector in Northern Ireland

More than 300 representatives of charities, community groups and social enterprises have come together for a conference celebrating the diversity of the voluntary sector in Northern Ireland.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly attended the summit at W5 in Belfast, organised by the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA).

Delegates heard that the sector employs more than 50,000 people and mobilises more than 200,000 volunteers across some 7,000 charities in the region.

NICVA chief executive Celine McStravick said the voluntary sector was the “lifeblood of our communities” and called for a new partnership with the Northern Ireland Executive.

She said: “Our sector has never stopped working for Northern Ireland, and transformation means we’re at the table – having tough conversations and making tough decisions – together.”

Addressing members of the sector in attendance, Ms O’Neill said: “The voluntary and community sector has a critically important role in supporting our communities and contributing to our key social, environmental and economic priorities.”

Ms Little-Pengelly said: “The theme of future thinking for this summit is entirely fitting as it is important we focus on what lies ahead and how best we can all work together to shape a brighter future for everyone.”