The National Express Foundation is inviting local community groups across the country to apply for a share of £100,000 of grant funding to support their work in helping young people.

Since its launch in 2012, the National Express Foundation has provided more than £1.5 million of funding to community organisations that work alongside young people, helping them to develop key skills and gain valuable life experiences. The Foundation’s grant programme for 2023 is now open and applications that have an environmental, diversionary, employment or wellbeing focus are encouraged.

Tom Stables, National Express Foundation Chair of Trustees, said: “We are well aware that the challenges young people face in accessing support for education, employment, or other life-enriching opportunities can often leave them feeling unmotivated and uninspired. It is clear that the effects of the pandemic and reduced social interaction are still felt, particularly from a wellbeing perspective and we want to help.

“There are some fantastic community groups and organisations across the country that work incredibly hard to provide crucial support and opportunities to help young people fulfil their potential. That is why we are keen to provide funding this year that will enable them to build on the valuable services they provide and deliver projects that will make a difference. I would encourage groups to consider applying as soon as they can.”

Sam Davis, Business Development Manager for FITCAP, a previous recipient of the Foundation grant programme commented:

“With the funding from National Express Foundation last year we have been able to quickly mobilise our Volunteer Pathway, providing training for ten young people to become qualified coaches which in turn, increase our capacity to deliver more community outreach activity.

“The process has also empowered our young people to upskill with courses such as CV writing, interview practice and money management - valuable knowledge that will help them with their future employment prospects and become positive role models in the community.”

National Express Foundation’s application process for 2023 funding awards will involve two stages. The deadline for first stage applications to be considered is Tuesday 6 June, with successful groups being invited to complete a second round application by Friday 23rd June

Full details including the online application form and details of previous activities that have been supported can be found on our website.