Youth Music Fund to Support Equality in Creative Opportunities Across England

Youth Music has launched the Shift the Scene Fund to promote equality in creative opportunities for Disabled children and young people across England. The fund will help organisations create inclusive and accessible projects that empower young Disabled creatives to lead and share their voices.

About the Fund

The Shift the Scene Fund has been developed following Youth Music’s Excluded by Design research and the work of its Shift the Scene Steering Group. The initiative aims to transform how creative programmes are structured to promote genuine inclusion, representation and accessibility.

While many supported projects are expected to have a music element, the funding is open to all creative disciplines, including performance, digital media, visual arts, and mixed creative practice.

Grant amount: Up to £200,000

Funding period: Up to 4 years

Match funding requirement: Minimum 20% (including at least 10% cash contribution)

Application window: 31 October 2025 – 28 November 2025 (5pm)

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to constituted organisations based in the UK that:

• Work directly with Disabled children and young people
• Place inclusion, accessibility and wellbeing at the heart of their activities
• Can demonstrate the ability to deliver long-term, sustainable creative programmes

Eligible Costs

Funding can be used to cover:

• Project planning and development
• Staffing and training
• Access measures and adaptive technologies
• Marketing and community engagement
• Evaluation and core operational costs related to inclusion

How to Apply

Applicants can find full guidance, eligibility information, and application forms on the Youth Music website. The programme encourages collaboration and co-design with young Disabled creatives.

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