New Programme to Support Youth Leadership in Leeds

Major funding initiative aims to empower young people across the UK

A new programme called Lead the Change will be delivered in Leeds as part of a nationwide initiative to support young people in fostering stronger community relationships. The programme is backed by a £3.4 million investment from a collaboration of national funders, led by BBC Children in Need and UK Community Foundations.

About Lead the Change

Lead the Change is designed to help young people build stronger connections, feel more engaged, and take leadership roles within their communities. It focuses on youth leadership, creating safe and welcoming spaces, and providing opportunities for community engagement. Additionally, the programme aims to equip young people with skills to navigate online information and contribute to positive local narratives.

Application Details

Expressions of interest for the programme will open on 1 April 2026 and close on 22 April 2026. The application windows are expected to be short to allow projects to start promptly. Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to review the guidance early to prepare their submissions.

Eligibility Criteria

• Registered not-for-profit organisations based and working in one of 27 eligible areas across the UK, including Leeds
• Annual turnover of no more than £2 million, except for domestic abuse refuges or hospices
• At least three trustees or members of the governing body
• Work with children and young people aged 18 years and under
• Trusted by young people and active in the heart of their communities
• Put young people’s voices and experiences at the centre of their work
• Demonstrate strong safeguarding and trauma-informed practices
• Committed to ongoing learning and development in youth work

Types of Projects Funded

The programme will fund projects that promote local relationships, confidence, belonging, and youth leadership. Examples include:

• Safe spaces such as youth clubs, sports, creative, and cultural venues
• Youth-led community action and resilience projects, including intercultural initiatives
• Pathways to opportunity through skills development, mentoring, and connections to training or apprenticeships
• Narrative change and digital literacy initiatives addressing misinformation and encouraging youth-created content

Funding and Timeline

Each participating community foundation will award one or two grants of £123,353, with Leeds Community Foundation expecting to fund one project in Leeds.

The anticipated timeline is as follows:

• 1 April 2026: Expressions of interest open
• 22 April 2026: Expressions of interest close
• Mid-May 2026: Applicants notified about full application invitations
• Mid-May to mid-June 2026: Full application window
• Mid to late August 2026: Final outcomes communicated

Participating Areas

Alongside Leeds, the programme will operate in 26 other areas including Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, London, Sheffield, and Belfast among others.

For more details and to access the full guidance, interested organisations can visit the Leeds Community Foundation website.

Source: Leeds Community Foundation