Hays Travel Foundation

The Hays Travel Foundation, established in 2015 by Dame Irene Hays and the late John Hays—founders of Hays Travel—aims to create measurable positive change for disadvantaged and vulnerable young people up to age 25, primarily in UK communities served by Hays Travel's extensive branch network. Rooted in the company's community engagement ethos, it champions inclusivity, empowerment, opportunity, and local impact, prioritizing projects that unlock potential in education, health, arts, culture, sports, and poverty prevention for youth facing social or economic barriers, such as young carers, those with disabilities, children in poverty, or at-risk individuals.

It funds targeted projects with clear, reportable outcomes—like educational support for gifted disadvantaged youth, arts/sports participation, mental health initiatives, respite care, and resilience-building programs—exemplified by grants to Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice, Off the Grid Adventures CIC, RIG Arts, and YMCA Norfolk. Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities or CICs of any size (no income limits) operating in or demonstrably benefiting Hays Travel branch areas (full list on website); grassroots and larger groups align if focused on youth impact.

Grants typically range from £1,000 to £14,000 (average £4,500), covering project costs but rarely core salaries or operations unless project-essential. Unsolicited applications via online form are accepted rolling, reviewed at periodic trustee meetings—next on 22 January 2026—with decisions in about a week and required 6/12-month outcome reports. Distinctive for its business-backed model (distributing most income annually, no reserves), regional embeddedness, and results-driven avoidance of non-youth or non-local work, it stands out in fostering social mobility through practical, community-tied interventions.