Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has unveiled an additional £2.5 million in funding for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) to strengthen homelessness prevention services.

The announcement came as the Minister met with players from Northern Ireland's men's and women's squads ahead of their participation in the Homeless World Cup, which takes place in Oslo at the end of August.

During the visit, Mr Lyons praised the work of Street NI, a local charity that uses football to support disadvantaged groups and provide pathways out of crisis.

"My ambition is the prevention of homelessness and charities like Street NI are key to this goal. The stories I have heard today have been truly inspiring and highlight the continued need to support those in crisis, while working on innovative ways to prevent homelessness," he said.

"Street NI has provided the players with the opportunity to represent their country in an international tournament, as well as an intensive wraparound support service, helping them transform their lives. This additional funding will continue to encourage new thinking in our approach to homelessness and further support NIHE’s partners in delivering critical services for people who are homeless.

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"I congratulate everyone on being selected and I wish them every success in Oslo and for their futures."

The Homeless World Cup brings together 500 players from 48 nations each year, offering those who have experienced homelessness or social marginalisation a chance to compete on a global stage.

Northern Ireland will be represented by both male and female teams competing in a specially built arena in central Oslo.

Justin McMinn, CEO and co-founder of Street Soccer Northern Ireland, described the tournament as life-changing. "This is a dream come true for all the players, a chance to represent your country in a sport that you love. Over the last 12 years we have witnessed the impact this event has on the players, with many of them breaking out of homelessness and unemployment on their return. They will come back full of confidence and motivation to make positive changes in their lives."

Among those involved this year is Louise McConnell, who captained the women’s team in South Korea in 2023 and will return as a mentor. "Playing in the Homeless World Cup in South Korea last year was one of the best experiences of my life and it was a proud moment for me to captain the side. This year I get to go back as a coach mentor to help other people on their journeys and pass on my knowledge and experience. Street NI has made a massive difference in my life and now I want to help the charity make a difference to others."