South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard has announced a new charitable fund designed to support gifted and talented young people across the region develop skills and realise potential.
The South Yorkshire Mayor’s Youth Impact Fund, created with support from The King’s Trust and South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF), is open for applications for young people aged 11-19 until December.
The Fund has been designed to “remove financial barriers that can prevent young people from developing their skills, accessing specialist training, or progressing in areas where they show exceptional promise.”
In a statement, Mr Coppard recognised the “remarkable young people” he’s met across the region, whose talents are often “not matched by the support they can access locally.”
He continued: “I want this Fund to help open doors, create opportunities and make sure talent isn’t held back by circumstances.
“Because when young people here are given the chance to do what they do best, I know there’s no limit to what they can achieve.”
The Fund has been established so far with a £25,000 donation from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), which has been supported by donations from ambassadors and the work of the SYCF.
Grants will range from £2,000 to £10,000, depending on individual needs. Young people will have the chance to be nominated by teachers and community leaders.
SYCF will manage the administration of fund. Chief Executive of the Foundation Martin Singer has invited “local businesses, philanthropists and individuals” to invest in the fund, in the hopes of furthering the Fund’s impact even further.
Further information about the application process can be found here.