Hays Travel Foundation

The Foundation supports projects that create measurable outcomes for disadvantaged young people up to age 25. Funded work includes educational support, arts and sports participation, mental health initiatives, respite care, and resilience-building programmes. These projects operate across a range of settings, from schools and community centres to hospices and outdoor adventure providers. Geographically, the Foundation focuses on UK communities where Hays Travel has a branch, including areas such as Sunderland, Manchester, and Norwich. The Foundation funds project costs rather than core operational expenses, though essential salary costs within a project may be considered. All funded work must directly benefit young people facing social or economic barriers.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and community interest companies of any size. There are no income limits, so both grassroots groups and larger organisations are welcome as long as their work focuses on youth impact. The Foundation prioritises projects that support disadvantaged and vulnerable young people up to age 25, particularly those facing social or economic barriers such as young carers, children with disabilities, those living in poverty, or at-risk individuals. Applicants must operate in or demonstrably benefit communities served by Hays Travel's branch network, including areas like Sunderland, Manchester, and Norwich.

The Foundation does not fund work that falls outside its youth focus or that does not benefit communities within Hays Travel branch areas. Core operational costs, such as salaries and running expenses, are rarely covered unless they are essential to the delivery of a specific project. The Foundation also avoids funding activities that lack clear, reportable outcomes for disadvantaged young people.

The Foundation operates a business-backed model, distributing most of its income annually and holding no reserves. It funds project costs rather than core operational expenses, and welcomes unsolicited applications from eligible charities and CICs. The Foundation takes a results-driven approach, prioritising projects with clear, reportable outcomes for disadvantaged young people.