New grant programme to support young people’s mental wellbeing

We are excited to announce that Headstart Kernow is working in partnership with us to create and administer a new grant programme enabling young people in Cornwall to access grants to support mental wellbeing. Applications will be considered and awarded by a panel of young people themselves.

The pandemic has put additional strain on many young people in Cornwall who were already struggling with their mental health. Since 2016, Headstart Kernow has been working with schools across the county to build the resilience of young people.

Cornwall Council Cabinet Member for Children and Public Health, Sally Hawken, said, “The guiding principle of Headstart Kernow is that young people with first-hand experience of the issues they face are best placed to shape potential solutions. The pandemic has created many additional pressures for young people and the Council is delighted to launch the Young People’s Wellbeing Fund to award grants in support of young people, decided by young people.”

Grants are available from £500 – £2,000 per individual for activities and interventions that make an immediate impact for young people in need of additional support. Applications for individual grants are made through a sponsoring organisation such as a youth group, community group or school. 

Tamas Haydu, Chief Executive of Cornwall Community Foundation, commented, “This is such a challenging time for young people in Cornwall and the Headstart Kernow Fund is a really exciting grant programme that will change young lives. We are delighted to be administering the grant programme for young people in Cornwall and working with the Headstart team.”

Scott Hignett, Head of Funding for HeadStart at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “This new fund will give young people in Cornwall the opportunity to explore different ways to build their resilience and improve their mental health. Putting young people at the forefront of mental health services is a core part of the HeadStart programme, and the Young People’s Wellbeing Fund is a fantastic example of this. “Thanks to National Lottery players, Headstart Kernow is providing access to additional support and activities in Cornwall as we continue to feel the impact of the pandemic.”

 Click here for more information and how to apply.