Better Tomorrows Fund

The Better Tomorrows Fund provides grants to organisations to employ youth workers, creating additional youth work opportunities across Cumbria. The fund aims to support young people through safe spaces, positive activities, and trusted relationships that build confidence and resilience. Established by David Beeby, High Sheriff of Cumbria (2021–22), the Better Tomorrows programme champions high-quality youth work training and delivery, with the goal of significantly increasing the number of young people who can access support from youth workers. The programme encourages individuals in Cumbria to gain accredited youth work qualifications through Cumbria Youth Alliance's training, while also providing funding for youth worker salaries via this open-access grant fund. Priority is given to projects that provide access to youth work for additional young people, create additional opportunities in areas where there is limited or no youth work provision, seek to increase participation from young people from less affluent social economic groups and young people who might not usually take part in youth work, put young people at the centre in terms of voice and decision making, and support young people experiencing significant challenges or barriers to accessing support and opportunities, such as those living with disabilities. The fund is supported by more than 50 funders, including individuals, businesses and charitable trusts.