I wish to inform the Deputy that there is currently no additional funding available to further expand the Family Resource Centre (FRC) Programme in 2026.
The most recent expansion of the Family Resource Centre Programme honours a Programme for Government commitment to work to increase funding and expand the capacity and network of Family Resource Centres. It was made possible by the securing of funding as part of Budget 2026, which has allowed membership to increase this year from 126 members to 136 members. The details of the ten new FRC Programme members were outlined in a press release issued by the Department on Tuesday 3rd February 2026. This is a very welcome second expansion of the Programme, following the announcement of an additional five Programme members in August 2025.
I will continue to pursue the expansion of the FRC Programme through the budgetary process and in line with the Programme for Government commitment. If successful in securing funds for further expansion of the FRC Programme, a new call for applications will be launched to ensure all existing and newly interested locations can apply.
