Deadline: 19-Mar-2026
The Henry Smith Foundation’s Holiday Grants Programme provides one-off grants of £500 to £3,000 for schools, youth groups, and non-profits in the UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands. The funding enables children aged 13 and under, particularly those with disabilities or from deprived areas, to participate in recreational day trips or short residential visits. Applications prioritize organisations supporting children who face financial hardship, systemic disadvantage, or limited access to holiday opportunities.
The Holiday Grants Programme aims to give children enriching and joyful experiences outside their daily routines. By funding recreational trips rather than educational or curriculum-focused visits, the programme ensures children can relax, play, and enjoy new adventures. The initiative focuses on children who might otherwise miss out due to financial, social, or disability-related barriers.
Eligible activities include:
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Recreational day trips
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Short residential visits
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Activities promoting fun, adventure, and positive childhood experiences
The programme particularly prioritizes organisations supporting disabled children and those in the 20% most deprived areas of the UK, while still welcoming applications from other areas if the children served face significant barriers.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
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Schools, charities, youth groups, or non-profit organisations based in the UK, Isle of Man, or Channel Islands
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Organisations with a recent set of audited or independently examined accounts, or for schools, the latest inspection report
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Organisations with annual income below £2 million unless the applicant is a school
Exclusions:
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Organisations primarily running holiday schemes
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Trips already taken or involving parents
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Trips promoting religion
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High-cost theme parks or major entertainment events
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Educational trips or long-distance travel
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Multiple trips per application
Funding and Project Details
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Grant Amount: £500 – £3,000 per trip
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Focus: Recreational experiences for children aged 13 and under
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Budget Requirements: Full project budget and risk assessment must accompany the application; contingency costs are not eligible
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Trip Timing: Planned at least six weeks after submission
How to Apply
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Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your organisation meets location, income, and type criteria
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Plan Trip: Develop a recreational trip or short residential visit for children aged 13 and under
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Prepare Documentation: Include a full budget, risk assessment, and supporting organisational documents (accounts or inspection report)
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Submit Application: One trip per application; ensure planned timing allows at least six weeks lead time
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Assessment: Applications are reviewed to ensure trips benefit children who face the greatest barriers
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying for trips already taken or involving parents
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Including educational, curriculum-driven, or religious activities
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Submitting proposals for high-cost theme parks or long-distance travel
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Omitting budget details or risk assessments
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Requesting funding for routine holiday scheme operations or contingency costs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the Holiday Grants Programme?
Schools, charities, youth groups, or non-profit organisations in the UK, Isle of Man, or Channel Islands with appropriate financial documentation.
2. What types of trips are eligible?
Recreational day trips or short residential visits for children aged 13 and under.
3. Are educational trips funded?
No, the programme focuses solely on recreational and fun experiences.
4. Can trips include parents or guardians?
No, trips must be for children only.
5. What is the grant range?
£500 to £3,000 per trip.
6. Are high-cost theme parks or long-distance trips eligible?
No, these are excluded from funding.
7. How should organisations submit supporting documents?
Include a recent set of accounts (or inspection report for schools), a full budget, and a risk assessment with the application.
Why This Programme Matters
The Holiday Grants Programme ensures that children who face financial hardship, systemic disadvantage, or disability have the chance to experience joy, adventure, and social engagement. By supporting organisations that reach the most vulnerable, the programme helps create positive memories, build confidence, and foster inclusive opportunities for play and exploration.
Conclusion
The Henry Smith Foundation’s Holiday Grants Programme offers a valuable opportunity for schools, charities, and youth groups to provide children with enriching recreational experiences. By funding carefully planned trips for children who might otherwise miss out, the programme promotes joy, inclusion, and equitable access to memorable childhood activities.
For more information, visit Henry Smith Foundation.
