Deadline: 29-Apr-2026
Lead the Change is a three-year funding programme by BBC Children in Need that provides grants of £123,353 to support youth-led community initiatives across the United Kingdom. The programme focuses on empowering young people as leaders, improving community connection, and strengthening digital literacy. It supports not-for-profit organisations working directly with children and young people aged 18 and under.
What is Lead the Change?
Lead the Change is a three-year funding initiative designed to empower young people to actively shape stronger, safer, and more connected communities across the United Kingdom.
Launched by BBC Children in Need in partnership with major foundations, the programme addresses rising concerns around youth disconnection, lack of representation, and exposure to harmful online content.
The initiative invests in:
- Youth leadership and participation
- Community engagement and inclusion
- Digital literacy and narrative change
Key Programme Objectives
1. Strengthening Community Connection and Safety
The programme supports safe, inclusive environments where young people can connect and participate.
Examples include:
2. Youth Leadership and Empowerment
Young people are positioned as leaders, storytellers, and changemakers.
Focus areas:
- Youth-led projects and initiatives
- Leadership development
- Community collaboration
3. Digital Literacy and Narrative Change
A core focus is helping young people navigate and influence digital spaces.
Key elements:
- Building critical thinking skills
- Challenging misinformation and harmful narratives
- Creating positive, youth-driven content
4. Skills Development and Opportunity Pathways
The programme enhances access to future opportunities.
Support includes:
- Training and mentoring
- Skills development programmes
- Pathways to education, employment, and leadership
5. Building a National Youth Movement
Lead the Change aims to create a long-term, youth-led movement focused on connection, inclusion, and social impact.
Why This Programme Matters
Tackling Youth Disconnection
Addresses feelings of isolation and lack of belonging among young people.
Promoting Safe Expression
Encourages young people to express themselves confidently, both offline and online.
Building Future Leaders
Develops leadership skills and empowers youth to influence decisions.
Strengthening Communities
Supports initiatives that foster inclusion, collaboration, and resilience.
Combating Misinformation
Equips young people with tools to critically engage with digital content.
Grant Amount and Duration
- Total Grant: £123,353
- Duration: 3 years
- Funding Type: Programme-based support for youth initiatives
Who is Eligible?
The programme is open to not-for-profit organisations operating in the United Kingdom.
Eligible Applicants
- Registered charities
- Community and voluntary organisations
- Non-profit organisations
Eligibility Criteria
- Must work directly with children and young people aged 18 and under
- Must operate within designated geographic areas
- Must demonstrate strong safeguarding and governance practices
- Must place youth voices and experiences at the centre of their work
- Must show commitment to learning and continuous improvement
What Activities Are Supported?
Funded activities include:
- Youth clubs and safe spaces
- Community engagement projects
- Digital literacy and media programmes
- Leadership and skills development initiatives
- Creative, cultural, and social projects
What is Not Funded?
The programme does not support:
- Individuals or profit-making organisations
- Statutory bodies or statutory responsibilities
- Medical treatment costs
- Political activities or campaigning
- Projects promoting religion
How the Programme Works
Step-by-Step Process
- Eligibility Check
Confirm your organisation meets all criteria - Project Design
Develop a youth-led initiative aligned with programme priorities - Application Submission
Prepare and submit a detailed proposal - Assessment Process
Applications are reviewed based on impact, youth involvement, and feasibility - Grant Award
Selected organisations receive funding for a three-year period - Implementation and Monitoring
Deliver activities while tracking outcomes and impact
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to demonstrate meaningful youth involvement
- Weak safeguarding or governance structures
- Lack of clarity in project outcomes
- Ignoring digital literacy and narrative change components
- Submitting proposals without strong community impact
Tips for a Strong Application
- Centre the voices and experiences of young people
- Show clear community impact and measurable outcomes
- Demonstrate strong safeguarding policies
- Include a realistic and detailed project plan
- Highlight innovation and inclusivity
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Who funds the Lead the Change programme?
It is funded by BBC Children in Need in partnership with other organisations.
2. How much funding is available?
Each selected organisation can receive £123,353 over three years.
3. Who can apply?
Registered not-for-profit organisations working with young people in the UK.
4. What age group does the programme target?
Children and young people aged 18 and under.
5. What types of projects are supported?
Youth-led initiatives focused on community connection, leadership, and digital literacy.
6. Are individuals eligible to apply?
No, only organisations can apply.
7. Does the programme support political or religious activities?
No, such activities are not eligible for funding.
Conclusion
Lead the Change is a transformative funding initiative that empowers young people to take an active role in shaping their communities. By investing in leadership, digital literacy, and community connection, the programme addresses critical challenges facing youth today.
For more information, visit The Community Foundation for Staffordshire.