Deadline: 31-Jul-2026
The Open Programme provides flexible multi-year funding to organisations in the United Kingdom working to uphold human dignity and advance the rights of marginalised and excluded communities. Grants usually range from £10,000 to £40,000 per year for 1 to 3 years, with unrestricted funding preferred where possible.
The programme prioritises organisations working in human rights, access to justice, penal reform, and support for migrants and refugees through rights-based approaches rather than charity-led models.
What Is the Open Programme?
The Open Programme is a grant funding initiative designed to support organisations tackling structural inequality, exclusion, and injustice across the UK.
Its purpose is to strengthen organisations that protect rights, increase agency, and create lasting systemic change for underserved communities.
Geographic Focus
United Kingdom
Applicants are expected to state the UK region or area where they operate.
Funding Amount
Typical grants range from:
- £10,000 to £40,000 per year
Grant Duration
Funding may be awarded for:
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
Funding Type
The programme aims to provide:
- Unrestricted funding wherever possible
- Flexible support based on organisational needs
- Multi-year stability for long-term impact
Priority Themes
1. Human Rights Framework
Support for organisations defending rights, equality, dignity, and protections under law.
2. Access to Justice
Work that helps people navigate legal systems and secure fair treatment.
3. Criminal Legal System and Penal Reform
Initiatives focused on fair justice systems, rehabilitation, reform, and reducing harmful impacts.
4. Migrants and Refugees
Support for people seeking safety, legal protection, inclusion, and dignity.
Why This Programme Matters
Many organisations in these sectors are underfunded despite working on urgent social issues.
This programme helps by offering:
- Longer-term financial stability
- Flexible use of funds
- Support for systemic change
- Stronger community-led responses
- Reduced dependency on short-term project grants
Who Can Apply?
The programme supports organisations working in the UK that align with the priority themes.
Strong applicants are likely to include:
- Non-profit organisations
- Community organisations
- Advocacy groups
- Rights-based service providers
- Justice reform organisations
- Migrant and refugee support groups
Community Representation Requirement
Applicants should demonstrate how they reflect and engage the communities they serve.
This may include:
- Representation in staff or leadership
- Advisory input from lived-experience communities
- Community consultation processes
- Programmes designed around real needs
- Inclusive governance structures
How Grant Amounts Are Decided
Applicants do not need to request a specific amount at the initial stage.
Funding decisions may consider:
- Organisation size
- Financial need
- Scope of work
- Available programme budget
- Potential impact
If shortlisted, applicants may later discuss detailed funding needs with a grant manager.
What Kind of Work Is Favoured?
The programme prioritises rights-based approaches, meaning support that builds agency and justice rather than charity-only responses.
Examples include:
- Legal advocacy
- Rights education
- Prison reform support
- Migrant legal assistance
- Community organising
- Policy change work
- Systems accountability initiatives
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Mission Fit
Ensure your organisation works in one or more priority areas.
Step 2: Select Category
Choose the category that best reflects your core work.
Step 3: Define Geographic Reach
Specify where you operate within the UK.
Step 4: Show Community Connection
Explain how communities shape leadership, feedback, and service design.
Step 5: Submit Initial Application
At early stage, focus on mission, impact, and organisational relevance rather than a fixed grant request.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Weak Community Evidence
- No proof of lived-experience input
- Top-down programme design
Poor Strategic Fit
- Charity-only model without rights focus
- Limited connection to priority themes
Organisational Gaps
- Unclear governance
- No evidence of impact or need
Tips for a Strong Application
- Emphasise dignity and rights outcomes
- Show authentic community leadership
- Explain systemic barriers being addressed
- Demonstrate long-term impact potential
- Highlight why flexible funding matters
- Be clear and concise
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much funding is available?
Usually £10,000 to £40,000 per year.
2. How long can grants last?
Between 1 and 3 years.
3. Is project-only funding required?
No. The programme prefers unrestricted funding where possible.
4. Do I need to request an amount immediately?
No. Funding levels are discussed later if the application progresses.
5. Which countries are eligible?
The programme focuses on organisations operating in the United Kingdom.
6. What sectors are prioritised?
Human rights, justice access, penal reform, migrants, and refugees.
7. Why is representation important?
The fund values organisations guided by the people most affected by the issues.
Conclusion
The Open Programme 2026 is a strong opportunity for UK organisations advancing dignity, justice, and rights for excluded communities. With flexible multi-year grants of £10,000 to £40,000 annually, it supports sustainable organisations tackling deep systemic challenges.
Applicants should focus on rights-based impact, community leadership, and meaningful long-term change.
For more information, visit The A B Charitable Trust.