Deadline: 16-Feb-2026
The High Sheriff of Gloucestershire Grants Programme provides funding to support initiatives that help young people build confidence, develop skills, and avoid crime and anti-social behaviour. With grants of up to £2,500, the programme prioritises community-led projects that promote wellbeing, learning, and positive life choices for young people at risk across Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire.
High Sheriff of Gloucestershire Grants Programme Overview
The High Sheriff of Gloucestershire Grants Programme supports projects that encourage young people to participate in challenging, constructive activities. These initiatives are designed to strengthen confidence, improve wellbeing, and reduce the risk of involvement in crime or anti-social behaviour.
The programme focuses on prevention, early intervention, and community-based solutions that respond directly to the needs and priorities of young people.
Key Aims and Focus Areas
The grants programme prioritises projects that:
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Divert young people away from crime and anti-social behaviour
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Prevent and deter involvement in criminal activity
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Build confidence, resilience, and self-esteem
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Provide informal learning and personal development opportunities
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Improve physical and mental health and overall wellbeing
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Support young people affected by or at risk of crime
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
Funded projects typically include activities that:
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Offer structured, challenging, or confidence-building experiences
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Provide safe alternatives to risky or harmful behaviour
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Deliver informal education, mentoring, or life skills development
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Engage young people through sports, outdoor activities, arts, or skills-based programmes
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Strengthen local support networks and community engagement
Projects should align with existing community initiatives and demonstrate strong local partnerships.
Funding Amount and Duration
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Maximum grant: £2,500 per organisation
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Funding frequency: One grant per organisation within any 12-month period
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Project focus: Short-term, well-defined initiatives with clear outcomes
Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate match funding through their own fundraising activities where possible.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
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Voluntary and community groups with charitable aims
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Registered charities
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Community Interest Companies (CICs)
Applicants must be:
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Based in Gloucestershire or South Gloucestershire
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Actively working with young people in the local area
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Delivering projects that align with the programme’s objectives
How the Programme Works
Applicants should follow these steps:
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Identify a specific need affecting young people at risk in the community
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Design a project that addresses confidence, behaviour, learning, or wellbeing
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Demonstrate local engagement and partnerships
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Secure some level of match funding, if possible
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Prepare a clear budget and delivery plan
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Submit an application showing measurable outcomes and community impact
Tips for a Strong Application
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Clearly explain how young people have influenced the project design
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Demonstrate strong local connections and partnerships
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Show how the project complements existing services
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Focus on achievable outcomes and realistic budgets
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Highlight preventative impact and long-term benefits for young people
Why This Funding Matters
The High Sheriff of Gloucestershire Grants Programme plays a critical role in:
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Preventing youth crime and anti-social behaviour
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Supporting early intervention and positive development
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Strengthening community-led responses to local challenges
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Improving wellbeing and life opportunities for young people at risk
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main purpose of the High Sheriff of Gloucestershire Grants Programme?
The programme funds projects that help young people build confidence, develop skills, and avoid crime or anti-social behaviour.
How much funding can organisations receive?
Organisations can apply for grants of up to £2,500.
How often can an organisation receive funding?
An organisation may receive funding once within any 12-month period.
Who can apply for the grants?
Voluntary and community groups, registered charities, and CICs based in Gloucestershire or South Gloucestershire are eligible.
Are partnerships important for applications?
Yes. Projects with strong local connections and partnerships are prioritised.
Is match funding required?
Match funding is not mandatory but is strongly encouraged and viewed positively during assessment.
Conclusion
The High Sheriff of Gloucestershire Grants Programme supports impactful, community-led initiatives that help young people make positive choices and build brighter futures. By investing in prevention, confidence-building, and wellbeing, the programme strengthens communities while reducing the risks associated with crime and anti-social behaviour among young people.
For more information, visit Gloucestershire Community Foundation.
