Young People's Vocational Development Charities Programme

The Skinners' Company funds programmes of work which help 'NEET' (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) young people get ready for, and move into, employment. Grants of up to £10,000 per year are available, with awards for three years open to consideration. The giving is focused primarily in London and Kent. Education is a theme of their support, so they particularly (but not exclusively) look to award grants to programmes of work where young people receive a vocational qualification as part of their employment progression. They look to support projects with a track record of success, or where the specific model of work is proven to be successful. The programme recognises that immediate employment may be beyond some young people initially. Where this is not possible, clear progression routes should be evident – such as moving on to further qualifications or through developing clearly employable skills during the project. Funding is available for specific projects, rather than general organisational costs, though pro-rata staffing and operational costs will be considered where appropriate. The charity prioritises work where young people attain a vocational qualification, projects that offer long-term tracking of beneficiaries to establish quality outcomes, and projects operating in partnership with other local organisations. Awards are made following committee meetings held in spring and autumn, with decisions communicated after the meeting date.