The Pathways Fund offers youth-led groups mobilising change in their community (identity-based or geographic) core grants of £60K-£90K (£20K-£30K p.a. over 3 years) alongside a significant support offer. We’ve always seen the programme as more than a funding pot – it is a programme to build the skills, confidence, and capacity of youth lived experience led organisations across the UK.
The recent cohort meet-up of our Pathways Fund partners brought that vision to life. This gathering was an opportunity for our Pathways Fund grant partners to take a pause from their day-to-day and come together to connect, learn and reflect on their journey.
There was so much rich discussion throughout the day with some key themes coming through…
Leading While Holding So Much
We heard honest reflections on what it takes to lead in this space. Small, part-time teams carry huge responsibilities, often without the resources or recognition to match. Burnout, funding pressures, and structural inequality were common themes. Leaders shared the strain of supporting others while managing their own wellbeing—often while navigating the same systems they are working to change.
The Impact of Youth-Led Change
Despite the challenges, the achievements shared were nothing short of inspiring. From building the political agency of young Muslim women in Manchester, to empowering young people within the prison system—this cohort is proof of what’s possible when lived experience and youth leadership is supported with resources and trust.
Growth and Momentum
We heard stories of transition and transformation: from grassroots projects to registered organisations, from bedroom offices to permanent spaces, from lone founders to growing teams. These shifts are a testament to the clarity and commitment these leaders bring to their work—and the power of additional investment in their organisational development.
The Need for Access to Expert Advice
A highlight of the day was our “Surgery Session,” where participants brought real-time challenges to a panel of expert practitioners across rotating tables. Legal, HR, strategy, safeguarding,income generation, and PR were all on offer. The insights were practical and empowering—offering clarity on the technical questions that can otherwise hold back growth.
Learning from Each Other
The Open Space session gave participants the floor to lead. They shared resources, ideas, and support—everything from how they used Wellbeing Grants to offering their own office spaces and studios to others. This kind of peer-to-peer generosity and peer learning lies at the heart of the programme’s ethos.
We are proud to walk alongside these groups—not just as a funder, but as a partner. Our Pathways Fund partners are shaping the future, and we’re grateful to be part of their journey.
Please read more about our Pathways Fund Partners.