The Holiday Grants Programme offers one-off grants for schools, youth groups and non-profit organisations to take children aged 13 and under on recreational day trips or short residential trips.

We know that memorable experiences can have a lasting impact, boosting wellbeing, building confidence, and offering a break from daily pressures. This programme helps provide these opportunities for children who face financial hardship, systemic inequity or disability.

We prioritise groups supporting disabled children and those with limited access to funds to go on holiday. In 2025, 60% of grants went to organisations working in the UK’s most deprived areas.

Funding guidelines

Grant amount: £500 – £3000 per trip

Trip length: A day trip or residential trips of up to 7 days

Timeframe: Applications for trips between 12 January and 30 April 2026 are open from 9am, 1 December 2025 and 19 March 2026. Applications for trips between 1 May and 30 September 2026 are open from 20 March and 19 August 2026. Applications for trips between 1 October and 31 December 2026 are open from 20 August and 19 November 2026.

Age range: Children must be aged 13 or under

Eligible organisations: Youth groups and UK-based non-profits with an organisational income below £2m, and schools

Trip type: Recreational only — no educational or religious aims

Location: Trips must take place within the UK, Isle of Man or Channel Islands

Deadline: Apply at least 6 weeks before the trip