25 March 2005
The government has almost doubled the amount it is prepared to invest in charities to help them deliver public services.
The Futurebuilders fund has been increased from £125m to £215m — indicating that ministers have confidence in the scheme, which was established last year to boost the voluntary sector's ability to win public service contracts.
Speaking on March 22, charities minister Fiona Mactaggart said: 'The announcement of a further £90m over the next two years demonstrates the faith the government places in the skills, passion and innovation such organisations bring to solving society's challenges, and our commitment to building secure and stable funding so that they can continue to use their talents.'
Futurebuilders chief executive Richard Gutch added that the new investment was a 'great vote of confidence' in the voluntary and community sector.
Last month, Futurebuilders announced the recipients of its first 15 investments. A further 100 are expected in the summer.
PFmar2005
