Bank of Ireland Community Fund marks seventh year of impact

 

 

Bank of Ireland has announced the recipients of its 2026 Community Fund, with organisations supporting migrants, people with disabilities, older people and the LGBTQ+ community across the island of Ireland set to benefit.

Now in its seventh year the Bank of Ireland Community Fund, delivered in partnership with Community Foundation Ireland, continues to support local groups who are working to address some of the most pressing issues facing society today. The Fund focuses on building capability and fostering inclusion among under-served groups in society.

In Northern Ireland, two organisations are set to benefit from funding this year:

• North West Migrants Forum: £34,000 over two years to support the People’s Social Café in Derry & Strabane, providing asylum seekers and refugees with safe access to cooking and laundry facilities, practical supports, skills sessions and social connection.
• Neurodiversity UK: £8,600 over one year to provide community‑based workshops for neurodivergent young people and adults, focussing on men’s mental health, confidence‑building, social inclusion and peer connection.

The Mae Murray Foundation, which promotes inclusive activities for people of all ages and abilities, was awarded a two year grant in 2024, enabling them to support more than 3,000 families through 24 fully inclusive leisure and social events, including paddleboarding, surfing and music workshops.

Speaking about the impact of the Bank of Ireland Community Fund, Kyleigh Lough, Chief Executive Officer, Mae Murray Foundation said:

“The multi‑year funding has been incredibly important for us. It’s given our team the confidence to plan ahead and create inclusive events for families that many would not otherwise be able to afford.

Thanks to Bank of Ireland’s support, families have been able to try new things, boost their mental and physical wellbeing, make memories together and often doing things they never thought possible. It’s had a real impact on how people see themselves and what they feel able to take on.

What’s been especially meaningful is that the support has gone far beyond funding. The team at Bank of Ireland took  time to meet our young people, listen to some of the challenges they face in banking and look at how they can provide better solutions as a result. That genuine commitment has made a real difference.”

Gail Goldie, Chief Executive Officer, Bank of Ireland UK, said:

“Strong communities are founded on inclusion, opportunity and confidence. Through the Community Fund, we are delighted to support organisations that are playing a vital role in building a stronger, more resilient society.

Now in its seventh year, we remain committed to deepening the Fund’s impact and to ensure more people feel included, supported and confident about their financial futures.”

Since its introduction in 2019, the Fund has provided vital backing to a range of organisations who delivering tangible local impact.  This year’s funding reflects a continued focus on building connections and empowering individuals and groups with the tools, knowledge and confidence to participate in a strong and resilient society.

A full list of recipients is available at: Bank of Ireland Community Fund