Amber Trust

The Amber Trust, a UK national charity founded in 1995 by Professor Adam Ockelford, empowers blind and partially sighted children and young people up to age 18—including those with additional or complex disabilities—by providing exceptional music opportunities to foster personal growth, social inclusion, and musical fulfilment. Rooted in the belief that visual impairment should not bar access to music's transformative power, its core values emphasise equality of opportunity, empowerment, and lifelong impact through high-quality, tailored provision. Distinctively music-centred and disability-inclusive, the Trust delivers bespoke services like Little Amber for ages 0-5 and AmberPlus for those 5-18 with complex needs, alongside collaborations with special schools, charities (e.g., RNIB, ISM Trust), and music teachers for workshops and resources.

It funds individual Music Awards covering instrumental/vocal lessons (piano, violin, harp, etc.), specialised music technology, instrument purchases, concert tickets, music therapy, and related travel/accommodation—prioritising UK residents nationwide (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). Support reached 662 children in the latest year, with no organisational core costs or project grants; focus remains on direct individual needs via partnerships.

Currently, unsolicited applications are not accepted—only re-applications from existing award holders (submitted by parents/carers or youth aged 16+ via online form). Deadlines are February 28, June 30, and November 15 for quarterly trustee meetings (March, July, December); late submissions defer unless exceptional. Grants are modest, targeted (e.g., up to 36 lessons/3 terms per cycle, one instrument), non-retrospective, and must activate within six months. Exclusions include statutory funding reliance (fully philanthropic) and non-music/disability-specific aid, setting it apart as the UK's sole national funder for visually impaired youth's musical aspirations.