A Northern Ireland charity, the Women's Resource and Development Agency (WRDA), has been awarded £100,000 from the UK Government's Engagement for Change Fund. The grant, to be distributed over three years, aims to empower community and voluntary groups across Northern Ireland to make their voices heard in decision-making forums.
Based in Belfast, WRDA will use the funding to upskill participants in areas such as policy making, effective communication, advocacy, network building, and engagement with traditional and social media. The programme, named Grow, Lead, Change, will be open to people of all genders, with a particular focus on supporting women's participation to counter underrepresentation.
The award was announced by NIO Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Baroness Ruth Anderson during a visit to Belfast. Baroness Anderson stated that democracy thrives when everyone has the opportunity and skills to make their voices heard, expressing particular pleasure that the work will include a specific focus on women.
Anne McVicker, Director of WRDA, expressed delight at securing the funding and excitement to roll out the programme. She believes it offers a significant opportunity for the entire community and voluntary sector, especially grassroots women's organisations, to develop skills in influencing decision-makers.