The Million Hours Fund is now open for applications, offering grants of £30,000 to £100,000 to support additional youth work in areas with higher rates of anti-social behaviour. The fund is aimed at helping young people aged 10 to 18, or up to 25 for those with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).
The funding is designed to provide more places to go and positive things to do – such as sports, arts, learning, mentoring or life skills – for young people who may be at risk of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour. Projects must involve trusted adults such as qualified youth workers, experienced volunteers or youth support workers.
Funding can be used for:
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Salaries and volunteer costs to run extra youth work sessions
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Training for staff and volunteers
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Materials, equipment and refreshments
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Overheads such as rent, insurance or admin support
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The cost of reporting back to the funder
To be eligible, organisations must:
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Deliver more hours of youth work than they currently provide
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Involve young people in planning the work
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Engage those most at risk
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Ensure the sessions are open to a wide range of young people
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Help improve young people’s wellbeing, safety, and practical life skills
Projects must benefit young people living in eligible areas. In North Tyneside, this includes the following wards:
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Chirton & Percy Main
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Howdon
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New York & Murton
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North Shields
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Wallsend Central
The deadline to apply is 12 noon on 22 October 2025, but early applications are strongly encouraged. The fund may close early if it receives a high number of applications.
For more information or to apply, visit: Million Hours Fund | The National Lottery Community Fund