A NEW fund to help children from lower income households to access extracurricular activities is now available, thanks to Wokingham United Charities (WUC)and Wokingham Borough Council.
A grant of £25,000 from the council, in partnership with the Hardship Alliance, enables Wokingham United Charities to help disadvantaged youngsters enjoy activities their families would not otherwise be able to afford.
The new Bright Futures Fund provides financial support for a wide range of extracurricular activities, including school trips, club memberships, sports equipment, instrument rental purchase and participation fees.
From sports to arts, and from music to science clubs, borough youngsters can now take part in activities to enrich their lives and unlock their potential.
Amy Garstang, manager at Wokingham United Charities, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Wokingham Borough Council to provide this initiative, and to be able to funnel this funding to those who need it.
“School trips, clubs and other activities help young people make the most of the opportunities available to them through school.
“Young people shouldn’t have to miss out because of a financial situation they or their families often have no control over.
“This fund aims to bridge this gap, providing access to enriching activities that are integral to their growth and development.”
Examples are: a child that is passionate about football, but who cannot afford to join a club, a budding gymnast who cannot pursue their interest due to financial limitations, or a youngster who would like to join the Scouts but who can’t pay for the uniform.
People are encouraged to apply now to help individual children access after school activities.
All referrals must come from a professional referrer, such as: schools, alternative educational providers, youth groups, sports clubs and relevant local charities.
Families themselves are not able to apply directly, but are encouraged to ask their school or club to apply for a grant for their child, on their behalf.
Until now grants have only been available from Wokingham United Charities for help with buying essential items.
The new Bright Futures Fund signals the charity’s desire to lift people’s life experiences as well as relieving their practical difficulties.
The group says its mission is simple: to empower children from low-income households to unlock their full potential through enriching extracurricular experiences.
Its new grant aims to give every child the chance to shine, regardless of their background.
Referring agencies applying for the grant will need to undertake financial due diligence to ensure beneficiaries of the award meet the grant programme’s criteria of low income, and will also commit to completing the necessary monitoring report upon conclusion of the grant project, ensuring accountability and transparency.
For more information, and to apply online, visit: www.wokinghamunitedcharities.org.uk/bright-futures-fund
