Aims/priorities: History in the Making is a grant that enables underrepresented young people (aged 13-25) to discover, engage, and connect with their local stories and ensure the history that matters to them is not forgotten. Using different art forms, from artworks and murals to immersive walking trails and theatre productions, young people decide who and what to celebrate and how best to do it. Successful applicants will work directly with young people out-of-school hours in areas of high social deprivation.
The aims of the project are:
- Young people will feel an increase in wellbeing; with increased skills, confidence, pride in place and a sense of belonging.
- Young people will feel more connected to their historic environment and the history of their local area.
- Local stories that have been overlooked will be recognised, revealed and celebrated for the benefit of local communities.
Who can apply: Projects should be co-created, with young people at the heart of decision making. Projects must take place outside of a formal learning setting. Joint applications (for example, heritage organisations may want to partner with youth groups) but at least one of the partners must have a proven track record of working with local young people outside of school. The young people must be from an eligible place, see page 9 of the guidance notes History in the Making Guidance 2026.
Grant amount: Up to £15,000.
Application process: For guidance notes and application form, go to History in the Making - Apply for a Grant | Historic England
Deadline: Friday, 24 July 2026 (midnight)
Contact info: HPCPCalls@historicengland.org.uk