Capacity building is needed for small DPOs

Posted 24.08.2021

Our DPO COVID-19 Coalition (led by Disability Action NI in partnership with Disability Wales, Inclusion Scotland and Inclusion London) has delivered a solid funding programme, built strong enduring relationships and added value to the Disabled Peoples Organisations (DPO) movement - despite the challenges of building a new consortium during a national emergency.

Capacity building is needed for small DPOs to be able to successfully access funding and deliver projects. Through this project our partnership - which has achieved significant work within a tight timescale and difficult circumstances - could provide consultancy support to grantees to improve their fundraising.

Andrew Lee, Director of People First Ltd, an organisation run by and for people with learning difficulties which received funding, said:

We need funders that provide accessible grant opportunities and understand why we exist, what we do, and how we do it. Without them DPOs are at risk of disappearing.

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