The Trust's objective is to support projects that encourage young people (aged 5-19) resident in London and the South East experiencing severe disadvantage to keep away from antisocial behaviour and criminal activity, enabling them to fulfil their potential.
Most grants are for approximately £30,000 over three years, however, at any one time the Trust will also have two to three grants for £30,000 to £50,000 per annum over three years.
Funding is for projects that enable young people experiencing disadvantage to fulfil their potential through the mediums of sports, arts, and education.
The Trust will look favourably on projects that continue to:
- Have an impact after the Trust’s support has ended. For example, helping a young person get a coaching qualification is preferable to facilitating that same young person to play football once a week.
- Support individuals long after specific (sometimes intensive) projects come to an end. This may be done in-house or through connections with other local organisations.
There are typically two funding rounds per year.
The next application period will open on 7 January 2026 with a deadline on 2 February 2026.
Guidelines and an online application form are available on the Trust's website.
Contact the William Wates Memorial Trust for further information.