The initiative is intended to enable underrepresented young people (aged 13-25) to research, discover and commemorate local histories, fostering a sense of belonging through exploring local identity and stories. Each funded project will create a place marker to celebrate and share these stories with the entire community.
The aims of the initiative are as follows:
- Young people will feel an increase in wellbeing, with increased skills, confidence, pride in place and a sense of belonging.
- Young people will feel more connected to their historic environment and the history of their local area.
- Local stories that have been overlooked will be recognised, revealed and celebrated for the benefit of local communities.
The programme is seeking to fund around 15 projects across England with grants of between £10,000 and £15,000.
Applications will be accepted from organisations of all types including community interest groups, charities and local authorities. Individuals can apply if they are registered as sole traders.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be based in England, and develop a project focused on young people based in an eligible priority place.
- Be able to evidence working closely with and co-producing with young people outside of a formal learning environment.
- Understand the barriers underrepresented people may face.
- Have the capacity to deliver the work.
- Take part in evaluation within the project timeline, including documenting the process through photography and/or video, and facilitating participant surveys.
- Take responsibility for installing and maintaining the place marker where necessary.
- Have an up-to-date safeguarding policy.
- Have the support of the local authority and/or building owner for their place marker, if a site is already identified.
This programme is aimed at engaging young people from the priority audiences targeted in Heritage England’s inclusion strategy. These are:
- Young people who are disadvantaged by their social and/or economic background or circumstances, or by where they live.
- Young people from the global majority, eg young people who are Black, Asian, dual-heritage, and/or from a minoritised ethnic group.
- Young people who identify as LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, +).
- Disabled young people.
- Neurodivergent young people.
Historic England is especially interested in applications from groups that are not heritage organisations but which can deliver heritage projects.
The buildings or sites do not need to be listed by Historic England for applications to be eligible for a grant.
The deadline for applications is 2 September 2024 (23:59 BST).
Guidance notes and the application form can be found on the Historic England website.
