Give the gift of opportunity
For young people from marginalised backgrounds, their ambitions can often feel out of reach. Like you, we want to ensure that financial barriers don't stand in the way of a young person's aspirations.
With your support, we can ensure no young person is left behind and those who could benefit the most can start their DofE and access the opportunities they need to thrive.
Sophie's story
Sophie’s childhood was filled with financial struggles. Her experiences taught her the importance of saving, and during the pandemic, she was even able to help her mum financially. When Sophie showed interest in the DofE, her mum feared it would be another financial burden. But thanks to funding, Sophie was able to participate without the added worry of costs. Through her DofE, Sophie has developed a passion for helping other young people to achieve their Award, as she did. We believe every young person deserves this opportunity.
“Because I’ve grown up without having lots of money, I’ve learnt how to keep my money and save it from Christmases and birthdays so when money became a big problem, I could help my mum with buying food...
After my DofE, I got offered an apprenticeship, and it's made me want to go into youth work and help other people do their DofE and give them this experience."
Sophie, Gold Award holder
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 almost 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 will ensure as many young people as possible have the opportunity to participate in the DofE, particularly those facing financial barriers.
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
These are essential to meet the goals of our Youth Without Limits strategy which aims to break down barriers to participation.
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
In 2023-24:
A record number of young people started their DofE in 2023-24 for the third 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 financial barriers to participation.
