Right now, too many young people are being left behind. Youth clubs are closing, the cost of living is rising, and the happiness and confidence of 16–25-year-olds is at a 14-year low – with young people most worried about money and their mental health. Their futures feel uncertain, and the benefits of taking part in the DofE have never been more important to young people.
4.5 million young people in the UK live in poverty and that means missed chances, lost confidence, and futures shaped by hardship. The DofE can act as a protective shield against these challenges by helping young people to:
- Boost their wellbeing: young people doing their DofE have higher life satisfaction, happiness and a sense of purpose.
- Build a sense of belonging: 78% of participants feel a strong connection to their communities compared to just 53% of their peers nationally.
- Gain hope for the future: DofE helps young people build confidence, resilience and essential life skills – enabling them to discover their full potential.
We want to reach 250,000 more young people by 2026 and remove financial hardship as a barrier to a life-changing DofE programme. And it starts right now, with young people already waiting for the chance to start their DofE journey today.
Together, we can make sure that no young person is left behind.
Alyas's story
Alyas moved to the UK from Afghanistan and was determined to make his family proud. Thanks to funding Alyas was able to begin his DofE and purchase the equipment he needed: a cricket bat, ball, and camping gear. He was able to take part fully and thrive.
Alyas has built confidence, improved his English and discovered a passion for helping others. These are all opportunities that were made possible through the DofE. But without financial support, stories like Alyas’s may not exist.
Together, we can make sure that no young person is left behind.
“Through DofE, I've learnt English, made friends, and gained confidence. The volunteering and activities like cricket have helped me feel a part of my community and opened doors to new opportunities.”
Alyas, Silver Award Holder
I've grown up without lots of money, so we were incredibily grateful to receive funding; it was a big weight off my mum's shoulders.
DofE has helped me to try new things and push myself to do things I wouldn't normally do.
If I didn’t receive funding, I wouldn't have had the chance to do DofE.
Your impact
A record number of young people started their DofE in 2024-25 for the fourth 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, 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 to fundraise?
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a charity (charity number: 1072490), and while we generate income through license fees and participation places, it isn’t enough to cover our full costs or reach all young people.
Fundraising helps us to extend the DofE to all young people, from all backgrounds – to benefit both them and the wider community. Our goal is to reach 250,000 more young people across the UK with the DofE by spring 2026, including young people who couldn’t take part without financial support.
How will donations be used?
Your donation could give more young people the opportunity to do their DofE, particularly those facing barriers to participation.
With the support of our donors, we are working with community organisations, schools in deprived areas, Further Education colleges, prisons, and centres supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
Your donation could go towards funding:
- Bronze, Silver and Gold participation places
- Grants to help a young person with costs e.g. for equipment (walking boots, sleeping bag etc.)
- Expedition equipment for Licensed Organisations e.g. tents, cooking equipment, first aid kits etc.
Financial support is essential to enable the charity to meet the goals of our Youth Without Limits strategy, which aims to increase access to the DofE.
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
