A Smile for a Child

A Smile for a Child is a UK-based charitable grant-maker dedicated to improving the lives of disabled and disadvantaged children and young people by removing barriers to their participation in amateur sport. Established to promote physical health, confidence, social inclusion, and equal opportunities through sports access, it embodies an ethos of responsive, practical support, delivering grants to both individuals and grassroots organisations across England and Wales. Its enduring focus on tangible, sport-related interventions distinguishes it as a specialised partner for fostering wellbeing among vulnerable youth.

The funder prioritises projects enabling amateur sporting engagement, such as adaptive equipment, sports club memberships, fees, and activity costs for disabled or disadvantaged children. It supports a broad range of sports but insists on direct links to participation, targeting small community groups, clubs, youth organisations, and individuals without income thresholds or formal charitable status requirements—ideal for grassroots efforts.

Eligible applicants include UK-registered charities, community groups, and individuals operating anywhere in England and Wales, with no geographic restrictions. Grants typically range from £100–£1,000 for individuals and £500–£2,000 for organisations. Unsolicited applications are welcomed via an online form on a rolling basis, reviewed continuously by trustees, with decisions within 6–12 weeks and no fixed deadlines. Exclusions encompass core costs, operational expenses, or unrelated activities, ensuring funds drive specific sporting inclusion and setting it apart as a niche, accessible supporter of child-focused amateur sports equity.