Grant News
Young people aged 16 to 30 who are currently unemployed, working fewer than 16 hours a week, or studying less than 14 hours a week can apply for funding to help them move into training, education, or employment through The King’s Trust’s Development Awards scheme.
A Development Award can cover costs up to £500 for course fees or expenses related to joining a course or starting work. Here are some examples of costs that can be covered, but there are many other possibilities:
- Tools, equipment, or uniforms for a job or training: for example, safety clothing and a toolkit needed for a construction course
- Clothes for a job interview
- Accredited course fees up to level 3 (A-level equivalent): this includes any course type between entry level and level 3 listed on the government website
- Job licence fees and IDs: for example, an enhanced DBS check, a CSCS card (for construction work), or an SIA licence (for security work)
- Transport to a new job until recipients receive their first month's pay
- Childcare while you are training: the childcare provider must be registered and inspected by the relevant regulator or statutory body for childcare in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland
- Technology needed for training: for example, access to WiFi to complete an online course
The aim is to remove practical barriers that often prevent young people from taking up opportunities.
Applicants must not be in compulsory education and will need to provide supporting documents, such as a course offer or interview letter, when applying online. The Trust then reviews each case and provides funding directly to support the individual’s next step.
To apply for a King’s Trust Development Award, applicants will need to complete the online application form and provide supporting evidence such as a course offer letter, job interview invitation, or training details.
Applications can be submitted at any time.