Aims/priorities: The Access Fund is designed to help registered Arts Award centres who would not otherwise be able to complete Arts Award due to a lack of funds. It is managed by Trinity College London in association with Arts Council England and was launched in 2005. It is now flourishing in arts centres, colleges and schools, community projects, libraries, galleries, local authorities, theatres, youth clubs and youth justice settings.
The grant can be used for the following:
- Discover, Explore or Bronze logs.
- Fees for workshops with a professional or specialist.
- General art materials, printing costs, etc.
- Tickets for events.
- Travel to and from a venue.
- Contribution towards the costs of Gold leadership projects.
- Hire of specialist equipment or specialist venue.
- Adviser/project management/staff time.
- Discover certificates.
- Moderation costs for Explore, Bronze, Silver and Gold.
- Specific access requirements e.g. BSL/other translators; assistive technology specifically related to the Arts Award project (where renting is not cost effective).
Who can apply? Applications from all registered Arts Award centres based in the United Kingdom are accepted. Priority will be given to centres that:
- Are working with young people who experience barriers to access and inclusion.
- Will use the grant to support them to pilot, embed or develop their Arts Award work with these groups.
Grant amount: Between £100 and £1,500 are available.
Application process: More details can be accessed at the Arts Award website.
Deadline: Friday 10 October 2025.
Contact information: Email: accessfund@trinitycollege.co.uk
Website: What is Access fund?