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Minister launches strategy for advice services

Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie, with members of the ASA at the launch of Opening DoorsAdvice Services delivered by the Voluntary and Community Sector must become more modern, efficient and accessible and directed at those most in need.

That was the message from Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA, as she launched her Department’s plan for the future delivery of these services. Called ‘Opening Doors’, the strategy sets out a new structure for the future delivery of advice services in Northern Ireland.

Commenting on the Strategy, Bob Stronge Advice NI Director said:

“Advice NI welcomes the launch of this strategy for the advice sector in Northern Ireland. The Minister, the Department for Social Development, and in particular the Voluntary and Community Unit, are to be commended for playing a key role in pushing forward this long-awaited document.

Advice NI members responded to the consultation document last year by welcoming the vision of more joined up working and the establishment of a longer term funding base for the delivery of advice services. Concerns were expressed around the lack of detail, the potential impact on accessibility of advice services and the need for a ‘bottom up’ approach which embraces what is good and effective about current provision. Mindful of these concerns, Advice NI will work to ensure that the implementation of the Strategy will have a positive impact on the sector and most importantly on the clients that use advice services.”

The proposed new structures will be piloted during 2007/08, with roll-out expected to commence from 2008/09. The strategy was launched in conjunction with Advice Services Alliance to mark the beginning of Advice Week, from 10 – 14 September.

Independent Chair of the Advice Services Alliance, Rev. Harold Good, commented:

“The Strategy heralds a new era for those of us who share responsibility for advice services throughout Northern Ireland. It is crucial to the long-term wellbeing of the members of the Advice Services Alliance. With this new challenge, it is more important than ever that the voluntary advice sector works together effectively to develop comprehensive, well resourced advice services across Northern Ireland.”

Copies of Opening Doors are available from DSD’s Voluntary and Community Unit (telephone: 028 9082 9403)

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