This Spring, National Grid Electricity Distribution has teamed up with Localgiving to support groups that deliver focussed programs to develop the practical skills and improve employability levels for people furthest from the job market. National Grid understands the huge potential that exists to upskill and support underrepresented groups, and it is firmly committed to unlocking this untapped talent, with a fund of £250k, as well as wider support, best practice sharing and networking with their existing expert partners.

The Community Matters Fund (Future Skills) is committed to supporting key groups that would most benefit from assistance, including : youth (16-25, not in full time education), people from ethnic minority backgrounds, those with health conditions or disabilities, armed forces veterans, ex-offenders and those returning to work after a long-term absence. 

Registered charities and non-profit companies can apply for up to £5,000. Unregistered community organisations can apply for up to £2,000. 

Successful projects will need to support individuals, by meeting at least one of the following themes:

• Offering placements, work experience, and professional accreditation programmes.         
• Developing key professional skills to help people into skilled trade roles e.g. construction, mechanics, plumbing, electrical work, agriculture, health and social care.
• Boosting employability, e.g. through CV masterclasses, workshops and interview coaching.
• Supporting people returning to work after a long-term absence, for example due to chronic health conditions, full-time caring roles or military service.

We’d welcome a blend of these themes, supporting those groups highlighted above from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds for whom there are barriers to gaining skills.

National Grid Electricity Distribution provides electricity to eight million customers across the Midlands, South West England, and South Wales. Funding is available for registered charities, charitable companies, and unregistered community organisations based in these locations. 

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If you are an existing Localgiving member then simply log into your account, a link to the application form can be found by clicking on the ‘My Grants’ section of your account displayed on the left-hand side of your dashboard and then clicking on the "Localgiving Grants" tab.

If you are not a Localgiving member then apply via the button below. If you are successful with your application and are not yet a Localgiving member, you will also receive a complimentary Localgiving annual membership.

Further information about the process can be found in our Guidance Pack which includes important eligibility information and FAQs.

Applications will open on Wednesday 19^th March 2025 and close at 5pm Wednesday 23rd April. Organisations that complete applications will be informed of their outcome in May, with money distributed later that month.  

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