GRANT MAKER AND SOCIAL INVESTOR
Francis Scott Trust
Every child and young person deserves the chance to thrive but not all have equal access to the support and resources they need to do so. That's why we work closely with, and in support of local organisations to ensure young people in Cumbria and the District of Lancaster can fulfil their potential.
We’re one of the largest independent grant funders in the area that's solely focused on children and young people (up to the age of 25). You’ll find us distributing over £1m every year, supporting initiatives that make a difference to their lives. We also provide social investment loans, a new test and learn funding programme and wider sector support.
We have recently updated our grant making eligibility, criteria and processes, please ensure you are familiar with these before submitting an expression of interest. It is also very easy to get in touch with the team - if you need any further guidance, give us a ring, or an email. Details are on the contact page.
An expression of interest form is being updated and will be available soon. The next submission deadline is May 1st. See main grants page for full details of deadlines and decision timescales.
If you are a first time applicant, or unsure of current priorities, please be in touch directly before submitting.
We endeavour to operate in an efficient, compassionate and informed way and rely on constructive conversations with partners, stakeholders, applicants and grant holders to help us to that. We prefer this to be face to face as much as possible, but recognise it is not always easy. To help ensure we receive the widest range of feedback and suggestions on our practice and ways in which we could improve it, we encourage the use of GrantAdvisor UK which publicly shares anonymised feedback. Our thanks to those who take the time to reflect on your experiences of working with us.
Creating positive conditions for young people to thrive
With the right support in place and equal access to positive opportunities, all young people can do incredible things.
Here’s how we can work with your organisation:
Grants
You can apply for one-off, short-term or multi-year funds if you’re working with children or young people up to the age of 25 who are experiencing challenging circumstances. You’ll need to be based in Cumbria or Lancaster District.
Sector Support
We have a small number of programmes which aim to support the development and capacity of the sector. These are the Aspiring Leaders Programme, Step Change and Test & Learn. We are currently working with local infrastructure organisations to understand what else is required, where there are gaps, and how we can make further meaningful contributions.
Social Investment
If your organisation is looking for help to increase its impact and improve organisational resilience and sustainability, this financial tool could be for you. Our social investment offer is here to support your evolution and growth.
Talk to the Team
We work with small to medium size organisations working with children and young people and based in Cumbria and/or Lancaster District.
If you are thinking of applying and want to know more please contact us for an informal chat.