Department for Communities

The Department for Communities is the largest of the nine NICS Departments and work with 15 Arm's Length Bodies and number of Advisory Groups. Its main functions include:

• the promotion of a healthy housing and the provision of decent, affordable, sustainable homes and housing support services

• a social welfare system including focused support to the most disadvantaged areas

• providing training and support to jobseekers and employers

• bringing divided communities together by creating urban centres which are sustainable, welcoming and accessible to live, work and relax in peace

• supporting local Government to deliver effective public services

• maximising public benefits from the culture, arts and leisure sectors

• tackling disadvantage and promoting equality of opportunity by reducing poverty, promoting and protecting the interests of children, older people, people with disabilities, and other socially excluded groups; addressing inequality and disadvantage

For more about the Department and its work, go to https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/about-department-communities