Awards for All: One of our favourite grants for schools.

It supports such a wide range of projects and, with grants of up to £10,000, you can really make a difference to your community.

So,what projects are eligible?

The Big Lottery Fund is an outcomes funder. This means that it supports projects that achieve at least one of the programme’s outcomes.

For Awards for All, they are:

• People have better chances in life – with better access to training and development to improve life skills.
• Stronger communities – with more active citizens working together to tackle issues within the community.
• Improved rural and urban environments – which communities are able to better access and enjoy.
• Healthier and more active people and communities.

We know many schools that have secured an Awards for All grant. Their projects include: setting up a community cycling project (with the funding used to purchase static bikes), the installation of a new playground, the launch of a new sailing club for young people disengaged from school sport, the creation of an allotment and peace garden in school and a grant for iPads to set up an after-school homework club.

Who can apply?

You can apply if you are a:

• School
• Voluntary or community organisation
• Parish or town council
• Health body.

What will funding cover?

You can apply for a grant between £300 and £10,000 if you’re in England, £500 and £10,000 if you’re in Scotland or Northern Ireland and £500 and £5,000 if you’re in Wales.

Grants will cover costs directly relating to your project, including:

• Event or activity costs
• New equipment or materials
• Training courses
• Pilot project or new group costs
• Special repairs or conservation work
• Volunteer expenses or professional fees
• Transport costs.

How do I apply?

You can download the guidance notes and an application form from the Big Lottery Fund website.

There are separate grant applications for people applying in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England, so make sure you download and complete the right documents.

Remember, you need to research and evidence your project and say how you will meet at least one of the Awards for All outcomes in your application.

Good luck!