What Youth Matters means for local youth services and the voluntary sector Youth Matters is the first national youth strategy in England in more than 20 years. The strategy is built around three radical shifts: From national to local  — decisions and delivery are meant to be made as close as possible to communities; funding will flow more strategically to local areas. GOV.UK - From National to Local From fragmented to collaborative  — greater coordination across government d

A short summary of funding opportunities that have came to our attention this week. Grow Wild Grants of up to £2,000 are available to community, youth and voluntary groups from across the UK that want to bring local people together to transform urban areas by sowing and growing UK native wildflowers and/or fungi. The funding, which is being made available through the charity Grow Wild (an initiative of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew), will support activities and costs such as

How local organisations helped Luis move from isolation to independence In 2012, at the age of 18, Luis completed his Health and Social Care course at sixth form college. Like many young people, he faced the daunting transition into adulthood. For Luis, this period was particularly challenging due to his diagnosis of autism and his naturally quiet disposition.  During his school years, Luis maintained a small circle of friends, participated in social activities, and enjoyed s

A short summary of funding opportunities that have came to our attention this week. Wise Music Foundation Funding is available to small UK charities supporting vulnerable people facing hardship, distress, illness, or poverty. The Wise Music Foundation offers grants of £500-£5,000, with an average award of £1,500. Priority is given to projects that help: Children The homeless The elderly People with disabilities The Foundation also supports a wider range of causes, including e

Charities occasionally face situations where they feel a moral obligation to make a payment or waive a right to property, even though there is no legal requirement to do so. These are known as ex gratia payments. For instance Adjusting a legacy where a will does not reflect the donor’s final wishes or making a payment to resolve a situation where fairness or compassion is at stake. From 27 November 2025, new powers under the Charities Act 2022 will make the process simpler f

Andy Churchill receiving his award The team from Wirral CVS attended the VSNW Conference and AGM 2025, which was titled "From Uncertainty to Strength: Building Capacity & Resilience in Our Sector" on the 27th November and had a wonderful time. Voluntary Sector North West is a key infrastructure organisation that supports and advocates for charities, community groups and social enterprises across the North West. Debra Alcock Tyler, CEO of Directory of Social Change and Greater

A short summary of funding opportunities that have came to our attention this week. The Morrisons Foundation Grants of up to £10,000 are available to registered charities for projects that positively impact communities across England, Scotland, and Wales. The Morrisons Foundation provides funding to support projects that: Tackle poverty and social deprivation Enhance community spaces, facilities and services Improve the health and wellbeing of local communities The funding wi

Transforming a Nightclub into a Community Beacon for Change Weapons Down Wirral CIC has taken a bold step toward creating a safer, stronger community by opening its permanent home in Birkenhead. The former Stairways Nightclub has been transformed into Argyle Community Fitness , a modern space that is far more than just a gym. It’s a welcoming hub where people can find discipline, purpose and hope for a brighter future. Breaking Cycles & Creating Change At the heart of Weapon

A day dedicated to recognising the impact of Wirral’s volunteers Wirral’s first large-scale celebration of volunteering is coming in February, and we are excited to share what will be a joyful, energetic and heartfelt day dedicated to the people who give their time to support communities across the borough. On Saturday, 28th February 2026, volunteers, friends and families are invited to The Hive Youth Zone for FestiVol , a full day of free activities designed to recognise and

A short summary of funding opportunities that have came to our attention this week. The Allen Lane Foundation's Young People Programme The Allen Lane Foundation is offering grants of between £5,000 and £15,000 to charities and not-for-profit organisations working with young people aged 12-21 who are socially excluded or marginalised, and who may have experienced significant issues within their lives. The grants can be used to support a range of activities, including core cost