About this Funding:
The Worshipful Company of Weavers has launched a new funding round through its Benevolent Fund.
The fund mainly supports projects that help young offenders, ex-offenders and other disadvantaged young people move into employment and participate in their communities. The fund also provides support to smaller charities working with underfunded groups within the criminal justice system.
Eligible organisations include registered UK charities and charitable incorporated organisations (CIOs). In some cases, community interest companies (CICs) may also be considered.
There are two levels of funding available:
Small grants of up to £5,000.
Main grants with no formal limit, although most awards are between £10,000 and £15,000.
The Charitable Grants Committee meets in February, June and October each year. The next application closing date is 2 July 2026.
Previously funded projects have included:
- Supporting disadvantaged young people (typically aged up to around 30) to develop life skills and access education, training or employment.
- Helping young offenders, ex-offenders and their families reintegrate into society, overcome social and economic barriers, and contribute positively to their communities.
- Funding direct work with women involved in, or at risk of entering, the criminal justice system, such as mentoring, training or outreach for women experiencing abuse, exploitation or other vulnerabilities.
- Supporting smaller specialist organisations delivering tailored services, particularly local charities working at community level.
- Preventing young people at risk of offending from entering the criminal justice system through early-intervention programmes such as mentoring and training.
Useful Links:
Funding Criteria:
Eligible organisations include registered UK charities and charitable incorporated organisations (CIOs). In some cases, community interest companies (CICs) may also be considered.
