Grant News

The UK Government has announced a £132.5 million funding package to expand after-school clubs and enrichment activities for children and young people.  The aim is to overcome online isolation and build connections in the real world.

The Every Child Can programme will fund activities within school and in communities at weekends and in the holidays, ensuring enrichment is a common entitlement for all — not just those who can afford to pay and will support activities such as music, sport, drama and other skill-building opportunities designed to keep children engaged outside school hours and help them develop confidence and wider life skills.

The announcement comes ahead of expected restrictions on social media use for under-16s. Ministers are positioning the funding as part of a wider effort to provide young people with positive, structured alternatives to time spent online.

The Government has also highlighted wider investment in youth services and cultural venues, including funding for enriching activities and access to cultural opportunities across England.

The government is working with The National Lottery Community Fund to develop Every Child Can. Further details on how to apply to take part will be published in due course.