The Irish Youth Foundation (UK) is the only national charity in Britain specifically aimed at helping disadvantaged young Irish people and their families.

The funding is for projects which benefit young Irish people and children up to the age of 30 years who are living in England, Scotland and Wales and up to 25 years of age for those living in Northern Ireland.

To be eligible, projects should help young Irish people and their families who are disadvantaged and in need.

There are two levels of funding for organisations in England, Scotland and Wales:

Small grants of up to £3,000
Standard grants of over £3,000 and up to £10,000.

Grants of up to £10,000 are available for organisations in Northern Ireland, although grants are usually in the region of £5,000.

The funding can support projects in one of these areas:

Training/counselling.
Mental and physical health and wellbeing.
Rehabilitation for substance/alcohol abuse.
Advice/advocacy.
Family support.
Homelessness.
Educational, cultural and social activities.
Cross-community initiatives.
Travellers support.
Disability services and support.

Projects in Northern Ireland should have a non-formal educational purpose and approach and contribute to good relations within and across communities. Priority areas are youth work, good relations and inclusion.

Grants can be used to: