the core
memories fund
Some experiences stay with us for a lifetime. They spark our curiosity, broaden our horizons and remind us of what's possible.
Created exclusively for Merton's young people and the organisations that support them, our flagship grant programme, Core Memories Fund, is a £400,000 investment in the people, organisations and opportunities that make those moments happen.
From unforgettable adventures and new experiences to practical training, skills development and community-led decision-making, the fund is designed to remove barriers, open doors and help more young people to have experiences they remember for the right reasons: joy, connection, discovery, adventure and belonging.
Because our memories don't just stay with us. They shape us.
Core Memories is made possible through funding from the Henry Smith Foundation, in partnership with YPF Trust, and delivered locally by Young Merton.
the criteria
For funding applications, our three essentials are simple:
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Your organisation must be a Steward Member of Young Merton
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The opportunity must benefit young people aged between 14 and 25 years old who live, study or work in the London Borough of Merton
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Young people must be actively involved in shaping the experience
We are particularly interested in supporting young people who are often underserved or face additional challenges, including young people who:
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are Care-experienced
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have been excluded or are at risk of exclusion from mainstream education
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are disabled, neurodivergent or have special educational needs (SEND)
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identify as LGBTQIA+
There are currently four ways to get involved with Core Memories.
Explore the opportunities below to discover what's possible:
Funding Streams - Memory Makers | Extraordinary Experiences
Additional Opportunities - Behind the Magic Masterclasses | Open Opportunities
Have questions? Take a look at our FAQs for more information about eligibility, what we can fund and how to apply.
MEMORY
MAKERS
A rolling fund offering quick and simple access to small grants.
Memory Makers grants are for one-off experiences that create lasting memories. From theatre trips and seaside adventures to sporting events and cultural visits, Memory Makers helps local organisations turn exciting ideas into unforgettable moments for Merton's young people.
Have questions? Take a look at our FAQs for more information.
EXTRAORDINARY
EXPERIENCES
A rolling fund supporting ambitious ideas that broaden horizons.
Extraordinary Experiences grants support bigger ideas, longer-term projects and opportunities with the potential to make a lasting difference. From residentials and overnight adventures to accredited courses, specialist training and extended programmes, Extraordinary Experiences helps local organisations bring ambitious ideas to life for Merton's young people.
Taking a fresh approach to funding, organisations pitch their ideas directly to the Community Circle at dedicated pitch days, with funding decisions made on the day.
Have questions? Take a look at our FAQs for more information.
Building confidence, capacity and capability across Merton's youth sector.
Our Behind the Magic Masterclasses are free workshops to equip local organisations with the practical skills, knowledge and confidence to create safe, meaningful and sustainable opportunities for young people.
From safeguarding, first aid and food safety to fundraising, outdoor leadership and planning residentials, the programme brings together local expertise to strengthen the people and organisations working behind the scenes.
Masterclasses are open to all Young Merton members, whether or not you are successful in receiving funding through Core Memories.
behind the magic masterclasses
COMMUNITY CIRCLE
Young voices. Community wisdom. Collective choices.
The Community Circle brings together young people and members of their wider community to shape Core Memories and make the final decisions about which projects receive funding.
By putting decision-making power directly into the hands of local people, we're ensuring that investment is guided by those who know their communities best.
Want a seat at the table? Applications to join the Community Circle are currently open, so you can put yourself forward at any time. We'd love to hear from you!
Great opportunities, ready to be explored.
From theatre tickets and outdoor adventures to residentials, sporting events and career opportunities, Open Opportunities connects Merton's young people with exciting experiences they might not otherwise access.
Working with our partners, we bring together a changing selection of free and heavily subsidised opportunities, helping local organisations open more doors and create even more lasting memories.
open opportunities
Open Opportunities is made possible through the generosity of our partners. Whether you have a space, skill, experience or resource to offer, we'd love to hear from you.
And we'd especially like to hear from Merton-based opportunities. Our borough is full of incredible people, places, skills and resources, and we're keen to help more young people discover the opportunities right on their doorstep.
Together, we can open more doors and make the most of what's already within our community.
HAVE SOMETHING TO SHARE?
currently open:
Closes: Friday 4th December 2026
Opening soon!
2. RESIDENTIAL IN
THE NEW FOREST
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions? We're here to help you explore your ideas and understand what's possible. Get in touch at corememories@youngmerton.org