Written answers

Tuesday, 24 May 2016

Department of Environment, Community and Local Government

Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme

Photo of Jim DalyJim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

242. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the grants available through the local social inclusion project to support arts and disability projects that are associated and assisting with mental health recovery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11616/16]

Photo of Simon CoveneySimon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The aim of the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) is to reduce poverty, promote social inclusion and equality through local, regional and national engagement and collaboration. SICAP is a key priority of Government and its vision is to improve the life chances and opportunities of those who are marginalised in society, living in poverty or in unemployment through community development approaches, targeted supports and interagency collaboration, where the values of equality and inclusion are promoted and human rights are respected. SICAP is delivered locally by Programme Implementers, who operate a range of community schemes and programmes.

The programme’s target groups are, children and families from disadvantaged areas, lone parents, new communities (including refugees, asylum seekers), people living in disadvantaged communities, people with disabilities, Roma, the unemployed (including those not on the Live Register), travellers, low income workers/households, young unemployed people from disadvantaged areas and NEETs - young people aged 15-24 who are not in employment, education or training. There is a strong focus on community activation, social inclusion and community development, in addition to prioritisation of those most hard to reach in our communities.

While SICAP does not provide grants, Programme Implementers do fund activities to address and respond to local needs and priorities. For example, people with disabilities can receive a range of supports i.e. to develop community groups to address and respond to their needs, increase their engagement at community level, access education or training or to bring them closer to the labour market, in line with the Programme’s goals. Supports to deal with mental health issues are often provided as part of a holistic approach to support the development and participation of programme beneficiaries.

As other Government Departments may have specific grant schemes under their respective remit which relate to the matter referred to in the Question, the Deputy may wish to make direct contact with the Departments of Health, Social Protection and Justice and Equality.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.