BHCC - NK - Youth Third Sector Service Grants Programme 2027-2031

The Youth Third Sector Service Grants Commissioning Framework sets out Brighton & Hove City Council’s strategic approach to investing in high-quality youth work through a grant-funded model, delivered in partnership with the voluntary and community sector.

The four geographical area-based Lots are as follows:

• Lot 1: West - Maximum funding available for the 24-month period: £194,376.
• Lot 2: East - Maximum funding available for the 24-month period: £88,376.
• Lot 3: North - Maximum funding available for the 24-month period: £234,464.
• Lot 4: Central - Maximum funding available for the 24-month period: £144,384

The three Equality based Lots are as follows:

• Lot 5: Youth Work supporting young people from BGM communities. Maximum funding available for the 24-month period: £44,000.
• Lot 6: Youth Work supporting young people who identify as LGBTQ+. Maximum funding available for the 24-month period: £44,000.
• Lot 7: Youth Work supporting young people with disabilities. Maximum funding available for the 24-month period: £44,000.

The three Grassroots based Lots are as follows:

• Lot 8: Youth-led Pot 1 Detached - Maximum funding available for the 24-month period: £20,000.
• Lot 9: Youth-led Pot 2 Transition Years - Maximum funding available for the 24-month period: £20,000.
• Lot 10: Youth-led Pot 3 Digital - Maximum funding available for the 24-month period: £20,000.

The framework responds to current needs among children and young people, including increasing inequalities, rising mental health challenges, and risks of disengagement during key transition years (Year 6–8). These transition years are identified as both a period of increased vulnerability and a critical opportunity for early intervention and prevention.

The programme is underpinned by the findings of the National Youth Agency (NYA) Youth Service Review (2025) and aligns with national policy, including the Government’s Youth Matters strategy, and local system transformation through the Young Futures Hubs Early Adopter Programme (2026–2029).

Funding will support a diverse range of youth work provision, including:

Open access youth work and informal education

Targeted early help and prevention services

Equality-focused provision for priority groups

Youth voice, participation and co-production, underpinned by the Lundy Model of Participation (ensuring young people have space, voice, audience and influence in decisions that affect them)