Who can apply?
The Youth Empowerment Fund is open to young people:
- Aged 16–25
- who either live, study, work or attend a regular activity in Westminster
- who want to deliver a social action project that benefits people and communities in Westminster.
Do I need to be part of an organisation?
No. You can apply:
- as an individual
- with up to a maximum of 4 other people – who must all be aged 16-25
- or as part of a community group or organisation.
How much funding can I apply for?
You can apply for a grant up to £500.
What can the funding be used for?
Funding can be used for reasonable costs needed to deliver your social action project, such as:
- Equipment and materials
- Venue hire
- Activity costs
- Marketing and promotion
- Travel (where appropriate)
- Refreshments
- Other project-related expenses
Please refer to the Grant Guidance Pack for full details of eligible costs.
What can’t the funding be used for?
- Paying for your time or your team member’s time
- Items that cost more than £500
- Items or activities that aren’t directly related to your social action project
Full details are included in the Grant Guidance Pack.
I’ve never run a project before. Can I still apply?
Absolutely. You don’t need previous experience.
The Youth Empowerment Fund is designed to help young people develop their ideas and build their confidence. Successful applicants will receive support throughout the delivery of their project.
Is there a way I can find out more about this fund?
YES!
We are running two online information sessions where you can learn more about the fund and ask questions. Attendance is encouraged but not compulsory. You can sign up to attend a session here.
Can I apply with an idea that someone else has already done?
Yes.
Many social action projects have been delivered before. What matters is how your project will benefit your community and why it’s needed.
Do I need a bank account?
No, you do not need a bank account but if you are under 18 and are successful for the grant, we will need consent from a parent/guardian for you to become a grantee.
If you are a successful applicant, you will be given a pre-expense card. Funds will be topped up on this card through two payments.
How do I apply?
Through answering a series of questions about your project and budget using our online application form.
Full details on how to apply, including links to all the resources and forms you will need, are found on the Youth Empowerment Fund page.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close at 5pm on Wednesday 30 September 2026.
Late applications cannot be accepted.
How will applications be assessed?
Applications will be reviewed by our Youth Empowerment Fund Panel made up of 5 young people who are Youth Associate for Young Westminster Foundation.
The panel will assess how well your project meets the aims of the fund and the positive impact it could have on your community.
When will I hear the outcome of my application?
Applicants will be informed of the outcome during the week commencing 19 October 2026.
What happens if I’m successful?
Successful applicants will:
- Attend an in-person induction session.
- Receive their grant in two payments via a pre-paid card you will be given.
- Deliver their project between October 2026 and March 2027.
- Attend mandatory support meetings in November and December.
- Be invited to celebrate their achievements at the Celebration Event in June 2027.
Will I receive feedback if my application isn’t successful?
Yes – everyone who has applied will receive a short piece of feedback on why they weren’t successful.
What if I need help completing my application?
We’re here to help.
If you need support or require any reasonable adjustments to complete your application, please contact us (jade@youngwestminster.com) and we’ll do our best to support you.
