Non-profit organisations, Local Authorities and schools can now apply for grants to create or expand youth facilities across England.

Part of the new National Youth Guarantee which will see £560 million committed to youth service provision, the Youth Investment Fund seeks to deliver up to 300 new and refurbished youth facilities in the most deprived areas of England.

Funding is intended to provide young people with safe spaces to engage in positive activities outside of school and access support from youth workers, with applications being assessed by BBC Children in Need.

Eligible groups must be working with children and young people aged 11 to 19 years old in a left-behind area of England to apply. Where young people have a special educational need, are leaving care, or are considered 'at risk' or vulnerable, funding may be granted up to the age of 25 years.

Grants of £5,000 to £50,000 are on offer, and can cover building alterations, purchasing equipment and furnishings.

Funding must be spent by 31 March 2022.

Applications are considered on a rolling basis as they are received.

Phase 1 will close to applications on 25 February 2022, or when all funds are allocated.

How To Apply

Phase 1 closes on 25 February 2022, or sooner if all funding is allocated.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received, with decisions expected within two weeks.

The administrators can help with accessibility requirements such as arranging a translator or requesting guidance in other formats.

Full guidelines, FAQs and the online grants portal can be found on the BBC Children in Need website.