The VRU Stronger Futures 3.0 programme is a major funding opportunity supporting community organisations working with young people at risk of violence across London.
Delivered by the London Community Foundation and funded by the Mayor of London’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU), the programme aims to provide safe, structured activities and support during the hours when young people are most at risk.
About the Fund
Stronger Futures is the VRU’s flagship prevention programme, focused on early intervention and reducing youth violence through positive opportunities.
Evidence shows that young people are most at risk of violence between 3pm and 10pm after school, making this a critical window for intervention.
The programme funds community-led organisations to deliver activities and support during these high-risk hours, helping young people stay safe, build skills and access opportunities.
How Much Funding Is Available
- Total fund: £4 million
- Grants available: £80,000 to £200,000
- Average grant: around £140,000 over two years
Funding will support approximately 30 organisations across London.
All projects must be completed by 31 March 2028.
What the Fund Supports
The programme funds after-school and holiday provision for young people aged 8–18 who are at risk of or affected by violence.
Funded activities must take place during:
- Weekdays: 3pm to 10pm
- School holidays: 12pm to 6pm
Projects should provide:
- Safe spaces and structured activities
- Mentoring and positive role models
- Skills development and enrichment
- Pathways into education, training or employment
The aim is to reduce exposure to violence while improving outcomes such as wellbeing, education and employability.
Who Is Eligible
To apply, organisations must:
- Be community-led organisations based in London
- Deliver work supporting young people aged 8–18
- Have a track record of working with young people at risk of violence, exploitation or grooming
- Be able to deliver structured provision during the specified hours
Partnership applications are encouraged, with organisations able to apply alongside up to two partners to deliver a blended offer.
Key Priorities
The programme prioritises organisations that:
- Work with young people most affected by violence
- Provide consistent, structured after-school support
- Offer a combination of activities and development opportunities
- Deliver measurable outcomes across wellbeing, education and employability
There is also a strong focus on building long-term resilience and supporting young people to access positive pathways.
Application Timeline
- Deadline: 11 May 2026 (midday)
- Funding decisions: Expected from June 2026
- Project start: From June 2026
Applicants must complete an eligibility check before accessing the full application form.
What Makes This Fund Significant
This programme stands out due to:
- High-value grants of up to £200,000
- Strong focus on prevention and early intervention
- Clear evidence-based approach targeting high-risk hours
- Emphasis on community-led delivery
- Opportunity to deliver structured, long-term youth support
It builds on previous Stronger Futures programmes that have supported thousands of young people across London to improve safety, wellbeing and life outcomes.
Is This Right for Your Organisation
If your organisation works with young people at risk of violence and can deliver structured after-school or holiday provision, this is a major funding opportunity.
It is particularly suited to organisations with strong community links, experience delivering youth programmes and the ability to provide consistent, high-quality support during key hours.
