Youth organisations in Knowsley can now apply to receive funding to access accredited Youth Work, SEND, and specialist training.
The Knowsley Youth Workforce Development Fund is closing for applications on 31 July 2026 so make sure you check you are eligible and apply soon.
This funding is part of a £523,000 grant awarded to Knowsley Council after being selected as one of 12 Local Authorities to receive support from the government’s Local Youth Transformation Pilot (LYTP).
The LYTP is delivered by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and aims to rebuild a high-quality, needs-led youth offer, and re-establish strong local leadership in youth services.
The programme supports the aims of the Knowsley Council Plan for 2025 – 2030 as well as the National Youth Strategy by helping to build a skilled, inclusive workforce, and improving opportunities for children and young people.
Cllr David Lonergan, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:
“Our young people are at the heart of our communities, and this fund is about giving those who support them the tools they need to make a real difference.
“This investment marks a significant step in strengthening youth provision across Knowsley. By developing a highly trained workforce, we are building the foundations for better opportunities, greater inclusion, and brighter futures for our young people.”
Are you eligible?
You can apply for funding if you are part of a registered charity, faith group, voluntary and community organisation, CIC, not-for-profit, or a community sport clubs operating in Knowsley.
What can be funded?
Successful applicants have opportunities to work towards Youth Work qualifications (e.g. Level 1-3), receive training to support care-experienced young people, or enrol on SEND-focused courses (e.g., autism, BSL, sensory needs, behaviour support).
How to apply
Organisations must provide safeguarding and governance documents and meet due-diligence requirements, including having no outstanding council debt.
Individuals may apply with an organisational guarantor or via Knowsley FACE.
You can apply online here until 5pm on 31 July 2026, or until funds are allocated.
You will find out if your application is successful within two to three weeks.
If you are successful, you must sign a grant agreement and complete monitoring to show the impact of training on local young people.
If you have any questions or need support with your application, please email wlct@knowsley.gov.uk and quote ‘workforce development fund’ in the subject.