A new £3 million fund has been launched to support young people facing some of the most complex transitions in their lives, as youth services across England continue to decline.
The Core Memories fund, delivered through YPF Trust’s network of Young People’s Foundations, aims to back grassroots organisations supporting care-experienced young people, those excluded from school, LGBT+ young people and those living with learning disabilities.
The initiative comes amid significant cuts to youth services, with some areas in England seeing reductions of up to 80% since 2010. Sector leaders warn that the remaining provision is often fragmented and focused on crisis intervention rather than long-term development.
Core Memories seeks to take a different approach, investing in early support that helps young people build confidence, independence and a sense of belonging before challenges escalate.
The fund will distribute grants of between £5,000 and £25,000 over three years, reaching an estimated 170 to 513 organisations across areas including Merton, Dorset, Kirklees, Stockton-on-Tees, Medway and Staffordshire.
The programme focuses on creating environments where young people can access trusted adults, community support and opportunities through sport, arts and local activities.
It builds on a model pioneered by John Lyon’s Charity, which established the first Young People’s Foundation in Brent in 2014. The national network, now coordinated by YPF Trust, has since grown to nearly 70 foundations across England.
Chris Murray, Chief Executive of YPF Trust, said:
“We are thrilled to partner with the Henry Smith Foundation at such a pivotal time. This investment allows us to deepen our work and reach even more young people navigating complex transitions.”
The fund is supported by The Henry Smith Foundation, which said the initiative represents a shift in how support for young people is delivered.
Ghino Parker, Director – Building Independence at The Henry Smith Foundation, said:
“For too long, funding for young people has focused on what they lack. Core Memories asks a different question: What do they need to thrive? A trusted adult, a sense of belonging and a real say in their lives are not extras, they are essential.”
Organisations involved in the programme say the funding will help strengthen early intervention and provide consistent, community-based support for young people at a critical stage in their lives.
