Lawrence Atwell's Charity (Skinners' Company)

Lawrence Atwell's Charity, established in 1588 by Exeter Skinner Lawrence Atwell and administered by the Skinners' Company, is dedicated to freeing disadvantaged young people aged 16-26 from poverty through tailored grants that support their entry into employment. Rooted in values of equity, opportunity, and empowerment, it invests in vocational training up to level 3 and employment readiness programmes, enabling low-income youth—especially NEETs—to access meaningful work, break poverty cycles, and achieve lasting social inclusion. With a distinctive focus on both individuals and organisations, it prioritises accredited training, skills development, and direct pathways to jobs, showing a strong preference for projects in London and Kent.

It funds revenue grants for specific projects advancing education, poverty relief, and employability for disadvantaged youth from low-income households in England and Wales. Supported activities include course fees, equipment, travel, childcare, and living costs for individuals, plus project staffing and operations for charities/CICs working directly with NEETs to boost economic prospects.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and CICs (small to medium-sized preferred, no strict income limits) based in England/Wales, plus resident individuals aged 16-26. Organisations apply via initial email EOI to charities@skinners.org.uk, followed by full applications if shortlisted; decisions at biannual April/November meetings (deadlines ~6 weeks prior). Individuals use rolling online forms. Grants range up to £10,000/year for 3 years (organisations) or £1,500 max (individuals); no capital or unjustified core costs.

This funder stands out for its dual individual/organisational support, rolling individual applications, and laser-focus on vocational breakthroughs for the most vulnerable youth, differentiating it in youth employment funding.