NI Christians raise concern over budget cuts
A coalition of Christian faith groups in Northern Ireland is expressing deep concerns over proposed budget cuts following the 2023/4 budget announcements. In an open letter to the Secretary of State signed by over 30 churches and faith organisations, they emphasise the importance of caring for the most vulnerable members of society and urge the Secretary of State to prioritise their well-being.
The coalition believes in the inherent value and dignity of every individual and is committed to offering holistic services and support in their communities. However, the increasing demand for these services, combined with failing statutory provision, has strained the charitable sector. The proposed budget cuts further endanger the already stretched safety net of faith-based care.
Member organisations have published distressing reports on poverty in Northern Ireland. The Trussell Trust provided 81,084 emergency food parcels between April 2022 and March 2023, with over 35,000 going to children. Shockingly, more than 26,000 people in Northern Ireland relied on foodbanks for the first time this year. Christians Against Poverty (CAP) highlighted the impact of poverty beyond financial struggles, with clients reporting mental ill-health and considering suicide due to debt. St. Vincent de Paul alone spent £3.5 million supporting people with essential items, underscoring the severity of the situation.
In the last year, the coalition has engaged with political parties to emphasise the vital role of the Christian faith sector in assisting those in need through the cost of living crisis, but the absence of a functioning Executive limits their impact. Jane Brady, Head of the Civil Service, warned that implementing this budget would leave vulnerable people in an even more precarious situation. The coalition fears that the resulting cuts will deteriorate public services for those who need them the most.
The coalition appeals to the Secretary of State to prioritise the well-being of vulnerable individuals and families living in poverty. They present two requests to protect the most vulnerable: embedding the ‘Essentials Guarantee’ in the Social Security system to ensure Universal Credit provides people with essential needs, and implementing policy decisions to transform the experiences of those trapped in poverty and destitution in the ongoing absence of an Anti-poverty Strategy.
They implore the Secretary of State to consider the profound impact of budget decisions on the most vulnerable and believe that a just and compassionate society prioritises their well-being. They encourage collaboration with communities, stakeholders, churches, and Christian faith organisations to find inclusive solutions that leave no one behind.
Representatives from the coalition will meet at the Northern Ireland Office in Belfast today (Thursday, 22 June) at 10:30am to deliver the letter in person.
About the Coalition of Christian Voices Against Poverty NI
The Coalition of Christian Voices Against Poverty NI is a united force of over 30 Christian faith groups in Northern Ireland. Committed to serving their communities, these organisations provide a comprehensive range of holistic services and support, particularly to those facing poverty and vulnerability. The Coalition first gathered in May 2022 around concerns about the cost of living crisis and continue to engage with issues around poverty and to speak out with a united voice for justice for the most vulnerable.