News article

Lead the Change is now open for Expressions of Interest!

Lead the Change is a new, three‑year initiative launched by BBC Children in Need, in partnership with Co‑op Foundation, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Henry Smith Foundation, Joseph Levy Foundation, Paul Hamlyn Foundation, Postcode Justice Trust, UK Community Foundations and The National Lottery Community Fund. The programme supports young people to play a leading role in strengthening relationships, fostering understanding and building belonging in their communities.

Lead the Change aims to:

• Strengthen community connection and safety.
• Empower young people as leaders, storytellers and changemakers.
• Support young people to build digital literacy and challenge harmful narratives.
• Increase opportunity through skills and leadership pathways.
• Build a national movement for youth‑led connection and change.

Examples of activity that can be funded

Lead the Change will fund work that strengthens local relationships, builds confidence and belonging, and gives young people the tools to lead change.

We’re keen to fund organisations that will support young people to drive positive change in their communities informed by local priorities. Projects could include:

• Safe spaces for young people to meet and connect – youth clubs, sports, creative and cultural spaces.
• Youth‑led community action and resilience – co‑designed projects, leadership development, intercultural initiatives to bring people together.
• Pathways to opportunity – skills development, mentoring, training and connection to training or apprenticeships.
• Narrative change and digital literacy – tackling misinformation and disinformation, storytelling and youth-created content.

Grant size: £123,353

Number of grants: We expect to award 1 grant through Leeds Community Foundation

Location: Leeds

Duration: 3 years

Expression of interest deadline: 22 April 2026

Expression of interest outcomes: May 2026

Read more and apply here