Grants for Individuals

Our individual grants programme aims to support motivated adults living in the UK to undertake education and training that will increase their chances of employment.

We offer grants up to £1,500 to undertake accredited vocational training up to level 3 and towards other costs associated with studying.

What can I apply for?

• Grantees may apply for up to £1,500 towards course fees (the course must be an accredited vocational course up to level 3) AND/OR costs associated with studying including: child care, travel and mobility costs, and accessible study materials. We do contribute towards funding specialist equipment, but rarely at the maximum grant amount.
• Individuals may re-apply if their course lasts for more than a year. For this, we would expect to see evidence of successful progress

How long does the application process take? We aim to process each application within 8 weeks. Applications are usually delayed by waiting for references or failure to respond to additional questions, so please make sure you and your referee are able to respond to emails.

To apply you must be:

• Aged 18 and over Experiencing financial and other challenges e.g. disability, major trauma or a life event, mental health - issues, carer responsibilities, care leaver, estranged from family, English language learners (ELL), child care responsibilities.
• Have been unemployed for at least 6 months within the last 2 years.
• Have the right to work and study in the UK, and have lived in the UK for at least 3 years.
• From a low income household (annual income must not exceed figures below relating to your household).

Total annual income (after tax)

• Single adult £16,700
• Couple £24,900
• Lone parent with one child £21,000
• Lone parent with two children £25,400
• Lone parent with three children £31,500
• with one child £26,100
• Couple with two children £30,511
• Couple with three children £37,000
• Couple with four children £39,80

We prioritise

• Little or no past work experience
• Lack of school qualifications
• Courses that aren’t eligible for a 19+ Advanced Learner Loan
• Applications that demonstrate a realistic plan to seek employment
• Courses that provide support and advice into employment

We do not fund

• Retrospective grants
• Courses that are not accredited
• Courses leading to self-employment in health & beauty, animal care and personal fitness
• Business start-up costs
• GCSEs, A-Levels or equivalent qualifications
• Undergraduate or Postgraduate degrees
• Applying to travel, study or work abroad
• Applicants who have a degree
• Private Dance, Drama or Performing arts courses