Support young people today
One in four young people feel excluded from society due to a lack of money.
Every young person deserves the chance to challenge themselves, discover what they're capable of and find a sense of direction for their future. But right now, some are at risk of missing out because money is tight at home.
Your donation can help change that. Will you help ensure financial hardship doesn't prevent young people like Dylan from doing their DofE this year?
Meet Dylan
When Dylan was at school, he struggled in the classroom, thinking that he wasn’t capable of much academically and couldn’t wait to leave. Thanks to funding, he was able to start his DofE – this unlocked opportunities he never thought possible. Today, he’s thriving as an apprentice Valve Technician and building a brighter future for himself.
Dylan's story shows what's possible when a young person is given the chance to do their DofE. The funding available through the DofE is so important because it's specifically designed to support those from the lowest income families. For young people facing the greatest barriers, that support can be a lifeline.
“I probably wouldn’t be where I am today without the DofE. It’s given me belief in myself, and it makes you think, 'Oh, I can actually do this.'”
Dylan, Silver Award holder
I think everyone should have the opportunity to do the DofE, it's a life-changing experience. It showed me that life is actually really beautiful.
I've realised that getting involved with things like the DofE helped me get a part-time job. It's helped me learn how to work with other people, and it's going to help me more in the future.
The DofE has helped me gain confidence as the expedition is not something that I would normally do! But I stepped out of my comfort zone and completed it.
In 2025-26:
A record number of young people started their DofE in 2025-26 for the fifth year running - as we continue our work to widen access and remove barriers to participation.
With the support of our donors, we are partnering with community organisations, schools in deprived areas, Further Education colleges, prisons, and centres supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities. Together, we’re providing targeted support to young people and organisations facing barriers to participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the DofE need my help now?
Young people are facing growing challenges like securing a job in an unpredictable market, coping with the effects of the cost-of-living crisis and rising levels of poor mental health.
We want young people who face barriers to not get left behind, to use the DofE to enhance their skills and level the playing field. With 70 years experience helping young people transform their worlds, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is more relevant than ever – and ready to help.
How will my donation be used?
Your donation could go towards funding:
- Bronze, Silver and Gold participation places
- Bursaries to help a young person with costs e.g. equipment (walking boots, sleeping bag etc)
- Expedition equipment for Licensed Organisations e.g. tents, cooking equipment, first aid kits etc
Can I give in other ways?
Thank you for supporting the DofE – more young people at risk of missing out will be able to take part in a life-changing DofE Award thanks to your generosity.
You can donate online by clicking here or by post. Please make cheques payable to The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and send to:
Individual Giving and Legacies Manager
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award,
Blue Fin Building,
110 Southwark street,
London,
SE1 0SU
The DofE charity relies on generous support to keep doing what it does best, and we’re committed to raising funds in a way that’s safe, respectful and transparent. Our responsible fundraising policy is designed to underpin this approach.
Read our policy here.
