Grant funding

Youth development fund

Overview of Youth Development Fund 2025/206

A £150,000 fund committed to young people across Runnymede has been approved for 2025/26 to fund a wide range of projects designed to support young people across the borough.

The fund builds on the success of 2024/25 projects that reached over 2,000 young people. Highlights included Junior Citizen workshops, self-defence training in schools, the ACE youth programme, and popular seasonal events like Sportability and Xplorer.

The 2025/26 programme will fund new and extended initiatives such as subsidised summer camps, youth mental health outreach, arts and disability-focused projects, and an expanded Junior Rangers scheme. Many programmes are delivered in partnership with local schools, charities and activity providers, ensuring value for money and strong local impact.

Youth Development Projects 2025/2026

Wheels for All – Inclusive Cycling in Runnymede

Wheels for All offers inclusive cycling for disabled young people and those unable to access traditional bikes. With support from The White Lodge, we’re launching a new mini cycling hub in Runnymede equipped with adaptive bikes like trikes, handcycles and tandems.
The project aims to support 18 - 20 young people weekly, helping them build confidence, stay active, and connect with others in a fun, accessible environment.

Xplorer Orienteering Challenge

Xplorer Orienteering Challenge is a fun, family-friendly outdoor challenge hosted in Runnymede parks. Children and young people search for hidden tokens while getting active and connecting with nature.

School Holiday Camps

We partner with local providers to offer subsidised spaces during school holidays, making sure children from all backgrounds can access fun, safe, and engaging activities.

Self-Defence Workshops

These workshops are designed for children and young people aged 10-18, teaching them how to protect themselves within their community. Participants learn to recognise potential dangers, de-escalate conflicts, and build confidence through verbal and physical techniques – all aimed at helping them reach a place of safety. So far, over 200 young people have benefited from these sessions.

ACE Youth Project

ACE offers low-cost sports sessions for 11–18s, including football at Kick-X in Addlestone and multisports at Egham Orbit – all for just £2. Find out more on the ACE Youth Project.

Sportability Festival

An inclusive annual sports event at Royal Holloway University for children with disabilities. Local clubs lead sessions in:

  • Wheelchair Rugby
  • Judo
  • Tennis
  • Dance
  • Boccia and more

Surrey Community Games

A chance for children aged 7–16 to try out new sports and activities, build skills with qualified instructors, and celebrate their progress at a special event.

Teen Project – Empowering Young Women

This six-week programme helps teenage girls build confidence, resilience, and a positive body image through workshops, mentoring, and community-based physical activity.

Junior Park Run

Funded by Runnymede Borough Council, Junior Park Run is a free, weekly event for ages 4–14. Organised by local volunteers, children can walk, jog, or run 2km in a safe, supportive setting.

Junior Ranger Project (13–18 year olds)

A hands-on environmental programme offering monthly sessions from September 2025 to February 2026. Activities include:

  • Tree planting
  • Pond clearing
  • Wildlife habitat creation

Participants gain real conservation experience, a waterproof jacket, and a logbook – all while making a positive impact on local green spaces.

Apply online by 25 July 2025 – only 20 spaces available.

Apply Now

Play Area Improvements

We’re reviewing and investing in local parks and play spaces to ensure they remain fun, accessible, and safe for children, young people, and families across the borough.