The Access Fund offers grants of £100 to £1,500 to Arts Award centres across the UK, helping them engage young people who face barriers to access and inclusion. The funding is designed to support centres in piloting, embedding, or developing Arts Award projects that give every young person the opportunity to explore, create, and achieve.
Who Can Apply?
All registered Arts Award centres in the UK are welcome to apply. Priority is given to centres working with young people who experience barriers to participation and who will use the funding to expand or enhance their Arts Award programme. Previous grants have helped centres reach young people who might otherwise miss out on these creative opportunities.
What Can the Funding Be Used For?
Grants can cover a wide range of costs related to Arts Award projects, including:
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Arts logs for Discover, Explore or Bronze levels
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Workshop fees with professional or specialist artists
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Art materials, printing, and event tickets
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Travel to and from venues
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Contributions towards Gold leadership projects
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Hire of specialist equipment or venues
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Adviser or project management staff time
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Discover certificates and Explore, Bronze, Silver, or Gold qualification fees
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Specific access requirements, such as BSL interpreters or assistive technology directly related to the project
Application Details
The next round of funding opens now, with applications closing on Friday 10th October 2025. Grants cannot be used for projects requiring funding less than six weeks after the application deadline, as the fund cannot guarantee delivery in time. Applicants will be notified of decisions by email 2–3 weeks after the closing date.
Apply now to give young people the chance to take part in inspiring Arts Award projects and overcome barriers to creative participation.
