Funding Opportunity: Support for Water Activities for Children and Young People Across the UK

VCSE organisations working with children and young people now have the chance to access new funding to help unlock life‑changing water‑based activities. The Children’s Alliance has announced a grants programme offering up to £15,000 for not‑for‑profit organisations across the UK to deliver projects that give children under 18 the chance to learn, develop, and play through water‑related activities.

This funding aims to remove the barriers many children—especially from disadvantaged communities—face when accessing safe and supportive water environments.

What the Funding Supports

Projects must support children and young people under 18 to access water for learning, development, confidence‑building, and play. This can include practical water‑safety activities as well as community facilities and family learning opportunities.

Eligible projects include (but are not limited to):

• Free swimming lessons for children who would otherwise miss out, including the provision of swim nappies where needed.
• Online learning programmes that help parents and children build confidence, understand water safety, and learn important life skills.
• Water splash play areas designed to encourage fun, creativity, and early engagement with water.
• Equipment and transport, such as swimwear, goggles, or travel costs to reach lessons and activity sites.

Priority will be given to grassroots initiatives delivering water-based projects for disadvantaged children.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is open to:

• VCSE organisations
• Community groups
• Charities
• Other not‑for‑profit organisations working with children and young people

Projects can take place anywhere in the UK.

Priority will be given to smaller, community‑based initiatives that demonstrate clear need and can show meaningful impact for children facing barriers to participation.

Application Rounds and Deadline

There are two funding rounds each year:

• March
• September

The next application deadline is:

31 March 2026

Organisations are encouraged to begin preparing applications early, especially if working with partners or needing evidence of local need.

For the criteria or to apply please click here