SDLP Mental Health Spokesperson Cara Hunter has welcomed the opening of the Department of Health’s £10 million mental health support fund.

The East Derry MLA said: “It is very welcome that as of today the Mental Health Support Fund is now open to applications.

"The fund is being managed by the Community Foundation NI and grants will range from £5,000 to £500,000.

"I know that there are many local mental health and wellbeing organisations across the North doing fantastic work in supporting people in their communities. I would encourage all of them to apply to the fund.

"Sadly as a result of the pandemic we are now faced with an even greater mental health crisis than before. I hope that the funding and the work that it will enable will go at least some way to addressing the crisis.”