UK charities, voluntary organisations, and schools can apply for grants to help children and adults suffering from severe learning difficulties and autism. The funding is being made available through the Baily Thomas General grants programme and can be used to purchase equipment, support capital works as well and cover project and core costs. Previous grants have been used to support capital works for residential, nursing and respite care, and schools; employment schemes including woodwork, crafts, printing and horticulture; play schemes and play therapy schemes; day and social activities centres; support for families, including respite schemes; independent living schemes; support in the community schemes; and Snoezelen rooms. The next deadline for applications seeking funding over £9,000 is the 1st December 2024. Applications for £9,000 and below can be submitted at any time. Funding for Projects that Address Severe Learning Disabilities (UK)

Grants of up to £6,000 are available to registered charities working to improve the wellbeing, welfare and education of children and adults in communities throughout the UK. The funding, made available by the Skipton Building Society Charitable Foundation, will support initiatives that benefit communities by reducing poverty and homelessness, improving access to education, and enhancing the well-being of the elderly. This includes combating isolation, managing Dementia and Alzheimer’s, and providing later life/palliative care. Applications should be made by the 31st October 2024 for the next trustees meeting in December. Grants to Improve the Lives of Disadvantaged People (UK)

UK registered charities working to defend the human rights of marginalised and excluded people can apply for grants of up to £30,000 through the AB Charitable Trust’s Human Rights Framework. The funding aims to protect and promote human rights through campaigning, advocacy, and changing the conversation. To be eligible, charities must have an annual income between £150,000 and £1.5 million. The funding is available to support both the core running costs of organisations and specific projects. The closing date for applications is 25h October 2024. Funding for Projects that Defend Human Rights (UK)

Applications are now open for Youth Futures Foundation’s Evidence into Action funding and training programme. The programme supports voluntary sector organisations in London, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Yorkshire and the West Midlands to create vocational training programmes for young people aged 16-24 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) or at risk of becoming NEET, particularly those identifying as Black, Mixed Black, Bangladeshi, Pakistani, or Gypsy Roma Traveller. A maximum of ten Delivery Grants of up to £75,000 per year for up to three years will be awarded to support organisations in designing and delivering on and off-the-job training activities and evaluating their impact. Learning and development support will also be provided. Proposals should be submitted by the 9th September 2024. Funding for Voluntary Organisations to Develop Youth Employability Activities (London, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Yorkshire & the West Midlands)