Summer of Sailing – Community Youth Activation Fund

With new funding available through the sportscotland Summer of Sport initiative, RYA Scotland is pleased to announce a new opportunity for Scottish clubs and centres. The £40,000 “Summer of Sailing – Community Youth Activation Fund” is open for applications from organisations that want to introduce more young people to sailing and boating, get them active and keep them active. 

What are the priorities for the Summer of Sport? 

The sportscotland Summer of Sport initiative is intended to provide support for all young people and children aged 3-26 while targeting those that are at a higher risk of poverty, including from the following family types: 

• Lone parent families 
• Minority ethnic families 
• Families with a disabled adult or child 
• Families with a mother aged 25 and under 
• Families with a child under one 
• Families with three or more children 
• Young Carers 
• Care experienced young people 

Additional consideration will be given to innovative approaches for remote or rural areas, ensuring equitable access for all participants. 

The aim is to deliver inclusive, engaging, and inspiring opportunities with pathways into sustained participation in sport. This could build on and enhance existing provision, particularly during the summer and/or provide long term engagement beyond the funding period. The Summer of Sport initiative is also intended to support training and development for instructors, volunteers and leaders. 

Can I work in partnership with anther organisation?

Absolutely! There is a clear desire from sportscotland that Summer of Sport opportunities should involve community partners. This is an opportunity for your club or organisation to build new, or strengthen existing, partnerships.

What might be funded? 

Examples of activity that might be supported by the RYA Scotland “Community Youth Activation Fund” include: 

• Taster sessions and holiday camps that encourage engagement, fun, and skills development. 
• Family-focused opportunities to promote joint participation and social connection. 
• Learning and development for the local workforce delivering activities during the summer 
• Targeted support for inclusion such as travel assistance, equipment provision, or additional coaching for children from target groups. 
• Community and club linkages to facilitate sustainable pathways from taster activities into inclusive and accessible participation 
• Recruitment and development of young leaders, volunteers, and sessional staff. 
• Support to increase workforce capacity for long-term delivery in clubs and community settings. 

How do I apply? 

We will operate a Rapid Response Application process to the “Community Youth Activation Fund” and seek applications for support from £500 to £2500. 

There will be two phases to making awards. 

What if I have questions? 

If you have any questions relating to this opportunity please contact development@ryascotland.org.uk