Funding opportunity – support for 18 to 21 year olds

A fantastic new opportunity is on the way for organisations passionate about supporting young people.

VOLA’s new Community Grants programme launches on Tuesday 14 October 2025, providing funding for projects that help 18 to 21 year olds who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) to build skills, confidence and brighter futures.

Funded by the UK Government through the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Youth Guarantee Trailblazer, as part of the Get Britain Working plan, the programme will make £711,000 available to locally based VCFSE organisations across the Liverpool City Region. The grants will support projects that help young people overcome barriers and progress into education, training or employment.

Grants of between £20,000 and £40,000 are available, with all project activity to be completed and funding spent by 31 March 2026.

VOLA will also be hosting online briefing sessions on Wednesday 15, Thursday 16 and Monday 20 October, offering the same workshop on three occasions at different times. Interested organisations only need to attend one session.

To find out more about eligibility, project criteria, or to book a place on a briefing session, visit VOLA’s website or email YGT@volamerseyside.org.uk.