Children in Need Fund

The funder supports projects addressing poverty and mental health, as well as challenges such as disability, illness, abuse, neglect, and marginalisation. It funds project delivery, core costs, capacity building, and development, covering both immediate relief and long-term change. Work can take place anywhere in the UK, the Isle of Man, or the Channel Islands. Specific themes include mentoring, counselling, safe spaces, arts, family support, skills-building, resilience programmes, and emergency essentials.

Registered charities, charitable incorporated organisations, community interest companies, social enterprises, companies limited by guarantee, community groups, faith groups, and special schools are eligible. The funder prioritises children and young people up to age 18 facing disadvantage. There are no income thresholds, but strong governance and public benefit are expected. No religious restrictions apply.

The funder does not support local government bodies such as councils, prisons, or the NHS. Companies limited by shares are excluded, as are most educational bodies including schools, colleges, and universities. The only exception is special schools, which may apply. These exclusions reflect the funder's focus on charities and not-for-profits that directly serve disadvantaged children and young people.

Grants can cover core costs, project delivery, and capacity building. Match funding is not required. The funder welcomes unsolicited applications and emphasises measurable outcomes, safeguarding, and beneficiary participation. Funding is flexible, supporting both immediate relief and long-term change for disadvantaged children and young people.