After three years of focused support for young people and an investment of £1.5 million in local youth causes, the Rothschild Foundation will close its Strategic Fund for young people at the end of the year. Our grant-making to support 16-24 year olds was initiated as a response to the pandemic which caused widespread disruption to young people’s lives. We have made 14 grants to youth clubs across the county, which provide a welcoming, safe space outside of formal education. Investments in Bucks Disability Service, TalkBack and Citizens Advice Bucks, have enabled specialist support to young people seeking employment.

Future Funding:

Applications to the youth priority of the Strategic Fund continue to be welcomed until December 2023. As this area of work closes, we will award grants of 1 year only with the following deadlines:

• Grant requests over £30,000 must be submitted by 1st September 2023.
• Grant requests under £30,000 must be submitted by 1st December 2023.

Continuing Support:

We will continue to support programmes benefitting young people in our Strategic priorities focused on local culture and food. In these areas we can build on the expertise and networks already established, and confidently make long-term investments that bring about positive change for young people in our community. Feedback’s Green Futures youth volunteering programme, and Theatre Shed’s inclusive drama projects are good examples of this.

Youth charities will continue to be supported through our Community Fund. Organisations which demonstrate they meet the needs and interests of local young people can apply for three-year grants of up to £30,000. This funding is offered flexibly for projects or core operations, and applications can be made anytime throughout the year.

The Rothschild Foundation’s work has always been inspired by our home at Waddesdon Manor and the farmland of the surrounding Estate. We aim to immerse young people in all that Waddesdon offers through support of programmes here. Our in-demand Schools Access Fund brings pupils on-site for fully-funded educational workshops, and our Training Pathway offers paid internships for young people wishing to explore careers in heritage, hospitality and other sectors.

Working Together:

We are in the early planning stage of a new youth funding programme in partnership with Heart of Bucks. Young people will guide funding decisions and invest in the causes most relevant to their peer group. We want to join forces to tackle the complex issues young people face and be better equipped to identify gaps where investment would make a difference. Youth charities and groups will find the support they need in one clear, comprehensive funding programme. Both the Rothschild Foundation and Heart of Bucks will share more news on our plans soon.