Local politician Mhairi Black is urging local groups in Renfrewshire to apply for The Young Start programme in Scotland, which helps children and young people aged between 8 and 24 years of age to grow in confidence and play an active part in realising their potential.
Run by the Big Lottery Fund Scotland for the Scottish Government, Young Start awards money from dormant bank and building society accounts that have seen no customer-initiated activity for at least 15 years. The money supports a range of projects that help young people aged 8 to 24 years old reach their full potential.
Over the next three years approximately £18m is available for voluntary sector organisations who involve young people in the design, running and implementation of activities. Groups can apply for grants between £10 and £100k. This funding is not open to individuals.
Through Young Start they will fund organisations that deliver work where:
- Children and young people have better physical, mental and emotional well-being
- Children and young people have better connections with the wider community
- Children and young people get access to new skills and training opportunities which will help them get a new job or start a business
The Young Start programme in Scotland also want to fund work that is people-led, strength-based and connected. They believe these approaches are vital in making sure that this funding makes the biggest difference possible.
Young Start can fund a wide range of activities that help young people aged 8 to 24 to reach their potential. While not exhaustive here are just a few project examples to give you an idea of some of the things Young Start can fund:
- Young people taking part in sports activities or helping or being trained to coach others
- Young people taking part in training opportunities or working towards accredited qualifications
- Projects which give young people the knowledge and tools to develop life skills and help promote good mental and emotional health
- Projects where young people can engage with a range of creative activities from dance, music and film
- Projects which encourage and support young people to learn more about their heritage and local area
The Young Start programme in Scotland would like to talk to all potential applicants about their ideas up front, before they apply. If this funding is right for what they want to do, they will send them an application form to fill out. This will also allow them to provide extra support if they need it.
Mhairi Black, SNP MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South, said: “This is a really great opportunity for local groups and organisations who work with our young people around Renfrewshire.
“Groups who are wanting to apply can get in touch with The Young Start Programme by calling 0300 123 7110 or if you would like more information about how to apply this can be found at the website: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/youngstart.“
Applications reopened on Thursday 30th August 2018.