New support grant scheme for patients

Date published: 4 December 2025

Minister Nesbitt said: “I fully recognise the toll that long waits take on people’s lives, on health, on family, on work and on wellbeing. No one should feel they are left to cope alone while waiting for treatment.

“This grant scheme is a practical and meaningful step to ensure people receive support when they need it most. While we continue our wider drive to cut waiting lists, this scheme will help individuals stay well, stay connected and feel supported during that journey.

“ Tackling waiting lists demands a whole system approach. Through the Elective Care Framework, through expanding capacity and through strong partnerships with the voluntary and community sector, we are taking coordinated action. This scheme is a clear example of that – government and communities working together to support patients now, while also building towards a more sustainable system for the future.”

The Support While Waiting Grant Scheme offers grants of £5,000 to £30,000 to voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations delivering community-based initiatives that strengthen wellbeing, resilience and self-management. These may include mental health support, practical assistance, peer programmes, and activities designed to help individuals maintain their health while awaiting treatment.

Minister Nesbitt emphasised that the scheme is part of a wider package of actions being taken to tackle waiting lists: “There is no single solution to waiting times. Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to doing all we can — both to reduce the time people wait, and to support patients better while they wait.”

Department of Health officials worked closely with NICVA and key stakeholders within the HSC service in designing the scheme, ensuring fairness, accessibility, and alignment with existing wellbeing initiatives. The scheme supports the Department’s long-term strategy to bring waiting times back to sustainable levels. It aligns with the emerging Support While Waiting policy and strengthens the Neighbourhood Model of Care set out in the HSC Reset Plan.

Projects will be assessed using a clear scoring methodology, with funding awarded to the highest-scoring and most impactful proposals. All funding must be committed within the 2025/26 financial year, with successful applicants receiving a single payment.

The Minister added: “Tackling waiting lists remains one of my top priorities. We will continue to drive elective reform, expand capacity, and work with all partners who share our determination to deliver better, efficient care.

“I am grateful to the voluntary and community sector for the vital role they play. By working together, we can address the current pressures as well as building a more resilient and compassionate system for the future.”

The application window opens 4 December 2025 and closes 30 January 2026.

Full details, including eligibility and application guidance, are available on the Department of Health website - https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/support-while-waiting-grant-scheme-20252026