The North Northamptonshire Council is set to decide on a new plan that would shift £68,000 of existing community funding toward projects dedicated to young people, including those in Wellingborough.
The proposal for a Youth Empowerment Grant Scheme will be discussed by the council executive on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, at 10am at the Corby Cube. The plan aims to repurpose money currently held in the Ward Member Empowerment Fund, which has historically allowed local councillors to direct money toward smaller community initiatives.
The idea was initially brought forward earlier this year but was withdrawn from an April meeting to allow for further review. Following a positive reception from the Corporate Scrutiny Committee in April, the proposal is now back before the executive for a final decision. If approved, the new scheme is expected to launch in Autumn 2026.
The council intends to develop the grant scheme in partnership with the Youth Advisory Council. This group, made up of members aged between 13 and 19, or up to 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities, will help determine how the money is spent. The goal of the project is to allow young residents to influence local decisions, support initiatives that improve outcomes for children, and address community safety and anti-social behaviour.
The current fund, established in 2022, provided 68 councillors with £2,000 each per year to spend on local projects. While this fund saw significant use, with 58 councillors participating in the last financial year, the council has described the current setup as underutilised. Moving forward, the proposed changes are expected to save the council £68,000 annually starting after the 2026/27 period.
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