Deadline: 01-Feb-2026

The Olive and Jesse Palmer Fund offers grants of up to £5,000 to support organizations in Peterborough that provide positive activities and development opportunities for young people with learning disabilities. Funding covers project-related salaries, equipment, inclusive sports, therapy initiatives, and other activities that enhance wellbeing and personal growth. Applications are accepted throughout the year for projects that benefit local young people.

Program Overview

The Olive and Jesse Palmer Fund aims to empower young people with learning disabilities in Peterborough by funding organizations that create inclusive, positive activities. The fund focuses on initiatives that enhance personal development, wellbeing, and access to opportunities for local youth.

Focus Areas

Eligible projects should align with the following priorities:

• Providing positive activities for young people with learning disabilities

• Offering opportunities that promote development and personal growth

• Ensuring access to resources, equipment, and programmes that improve wellbeing

• Supporting inclusive community participation through sports, arts, and social initiatives

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Registered charities and charitable incorporated organisations

• Religious organisations delivering non-religious community benefits

• Parish and town councils, village halls, and parochial church councils

• Community interest companies, social enterprises, companies limited by guarantee, co-operatives, and community benefit societies

• Schools and qualifying sports clubs

• National organisations, provided the activities are delivered in Cambridgeshire and restricted to the local area

Ineligible applicants and activities:

• Projects that have already taken place

• Sponsored or fundraising events

• Debt repayment

• Improvements to non-public buildings

• Political activities or religious practice

• Animal welfare projects

Funding Details

• Maximum grant: £5,000 per project

• Eligible expenses:

  • Project-related salaries

  • Equipment and resources, e.g., sensory tools, specialist music equipment

  • Vehicle rental for project delivery

  • Inclusive sports and therapy programmes

• Funding is intended specifically for local young people with learning disabilities

How to Apply

1. Confirm that your organisation and proposed project meet eligibility criteria

2. Prepare a detailed description of the project, including objectives, activities, target group, and expected outcomes

3. Provide a clear budget, specifying how funds will be used to benefit local young people

4. Submit the application according to the fund’s rolling deadlines

5. Ensure any supporting documents required by the fund, such as proof of charitable status or governance information, are included

Key Tips for Applicants

• Demonstrate direct benefit to young people with learning disabilities

• Include measurable outcomes for development, participation, and wellbeing

• Ensure the budget clearly links expenses to project delivery

• Highlight inclusivity and accessibility of activities

• Avoid requesting funds for ineligible items, such as retrospective projects or unrelated initiatives

FAQ

Q1: What is the maximum funding available? Up to £5,000 per project.
Q2: Who can apply? Charities, CICs, community organisations, councils, schools, sports clubs, and certain national organisations delivering locally in Cambridgeshire.
Q3: Can funding be used for salaries? Yes, project-related salaries are eligible.
Q4: Are national organisations eligible? Only if activities are restricted to Cambridgeshire.
Q5: Can we apply for multiple projects? Yes, provided each application meets the fund’s criteria.
Q6: Are fundraising events eligible? No, fundraising or sponsored events are not supported.
Q7: What types of projects have previously been funded? Sensory equipment, music centre tools, inclusive sports, and therapy groups.

Conclusion

The Olive and Jesse Palmer Fund provides crucial financial support to organizations in Peterborough delivering meaningful, inclusive activities for young people with learning disabilities. By funding equipment, programmes, and development opportunities, the fund strengthens community participation, personal growth, and wellbeing for local youth, enabling them to reach their full potential.

For more information, visit Cambridgeshire Community Foundation.