The UK government has launched the Better Youth Spaces fund, a new capital grants programme worth £30.5 million, aimed at supporting not-for-profit youth organisations in some of England’s most deprived areas. The initiative, delivered by Social Investment Business (SIB), is designed to help organisations improve facilities and better serve young people by funding small-scale capital projects ranging from £5,000 to £100,000. These projects can include new equipment purchases and small refurbishments.
The fund prioritises 42 areas across England identified through the Income Deprivation Affecting Children Index. It supports efforts that expand the reach and safety of youth services, strengthen their capacity to deliver enriching activities, and improve their financial sustainability. Eligible applicants must be not-for-profit and offer open-access youth services to children and young people aged up to 18, with provision extending to 25 for those with special needs, care experience, or vulnerability.
Applications involving refurbishments must be submitted by 31 August, while all others must be submitted by 21 September, unless the fund closes earlier due to oversubscription. All grants must be spent and accounted for by 30 January 2026, or earlier if agreed.
In parallel, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and the National Lottery Community Fund have reopened the Million Hours Fund. Initially launched in 2023, this fund is now supported by £19 million to increase access to youth services, especially in areas facing high levels of antisocial behaviour. The programme aims to provide over one million additional hours of youth work and activities, with government funding to be used by March 2026 and lottery funding by March 2027.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy highlighted that this investment responds to direct input from young people and reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring they have access to safe, inspiring spaces. SIB’s CEO Nick Temple added that this funding would help communities most in need by enhancing youth provision through expanded access, safer environments, and more sustainable operations.
