Founded in 1978 in Northern Ireland, Extern works with children, adults and communities directly affected by social exclusion, through programmes, delivered locally to clients. We work with over 2,000 young people every year and run over 30 programmes as well as our work with the homeless and ex-offenders. Most of our service users are referred by the statutory agencies such as the NI Health & Social Services Trusts, the NI Housing Executive, the Probation Board for (NI) and Health Boards (ROI).

Extern fundraises to pilot innovative projects within areas of social exclusion that we are best able to provide because of our expertise. Many of these are then mainstream funded. We fundraise to provide equipment, educational outings, outward bound, outdoor and indoor skills training which are not covered by core funding and we are looking at creating a development fund to support young people after they have finished our programmes. We receive support from local businesses and donors, as well as through events such as the treks.

Website: www.extern.org

Registered Charity No. X3714NI