WeMindTheGap Secures National Lottery Funding – local charity WeMindTheGap has announced it has been awarded funding for the next five years from The National Lottery Community Fund.
A Sense Of Belonging
This support will help the charity continue supporting young people from the Northwest of England and North Wales who are not in employment and lack the education or training to develop life skills that many take for granted. The charity will prepare them for the world of work and give them a sense of belonging.
The £4.9 million funding will sustain and grow WeMindTheGap’s programmes, supporting the charity’s ambition to reach over 15,000 young people at a cost of £12 million. The money will enable the creation of a supportive network for each “Graduate Gappie”, connecting individuals from diverse backgrounds, bridging the gap between the online and offline worlds and creating a sense of belonging in their community.
This continuous support will empower underserved young people who are not in education, employment, or training by creating personal and professional growth and resilience. Ultimately, the programmes aim to equip future generations with the skills and support necessary to engage with education, enter the workplace, live independently and contribute to their local economy and community.
Five Different Programmes
Founded in 2014 by the co-founder of Moneypenny, Rachel Clacher, WeMindTheGap initially provided a unique six-month paid traineeship. Further support to help young people transition into work or education followed. Since 2014, the charity has expanded its offering and now offers five different programmes to meet the differing needs of young people. Some are delivered virtually as a first step and are also suited to those who may not yet be ready for the world of work. The charity continues to support its “Graduate Gappies” through an ever-growing but vital alumni programme. These programmes focus on maintaining relationships, peer-to-peer support and continued progression.
Patron Sir John Timpson commented, “I have watched WeMindTheGap grow from a great idea into a vital programme that now changes young people’s lives. They have found a formula that gives experience and confidence. It creates positive thinking and ambition to help many brave young people turn their lives around. It is wonderful that WeMindTheGap is now receiving more of the investment support it needs and deserves.”
Meaningful Work Opportunities
WeMindTheGap CEO Ali Wheeler said, “This funding represents a huge milestone for the charity. It is a clear recognition of the difference we are making to young people’s lives. The ongoing support from The National Lottery Community Fund is invaluable. It gives us the flexibility to continue to grow, adapt, and deepen our impact year on year.
“This funding will help us build on our community model and reach even more young people who deserve better. By partnering with local employers, we will ensure that these young people also have access to meaningful work opportunities.
“With an emphasis on long-term support, we aim to empower young people and secure employment. We also build the confidence and skills they need to succeed in life. We are excited to build, promote sustainability and growth, and support even more young people in the future.”
A Lasting Difference
Ellen Dunlevy, Senior Portfolio Manager at The National Lottery Community Fund, said, “We are delighted to award this funding to WeMindTheGap. Through coaching, mentoring, and practical skills development, they help young people. These youngsters face poverty, disadvantage, and discrimination. WeMindTheGap overcome barriers, shape better futures for themselves and also change how communities come together to support young people.
“Thanks to National Lottery players and the UK Fund, communities will have the opportunity to connect and also make a lasting difference. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of this project in North West England and North Wales.”
Visit wemindthegap.org.uk for more information about the charity and its work.
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