On 9 March 2026, the Northamptonshire Community Foundation launched a new £150,000 fund in Northamptonshire to help young adults move from the care system into living on their own. The Pathways to Independence: Care Leavers Fund will provide grants over the next three years to local charities and community groups that support people aged 18 to 25.
The money is designed to help with practical and emotional needs as young people start their adult lives in Northampton. This includes support for finding work, getting an education, buying essential items for a new home, and accessing mentoring or wellbeing services.
This local initiative is part of a wider national programme supported by the Henry Smith Foundation and UK Community Foundations. At a launch event held at the University of Northampton, Olympian Fatima Whitbread MBE spoke about how important community support is for those navigating life after care.
Local organisations like Right Resolution CIC and Springs Family Centre are working to help ensure the fund reaches those who need it most. The foundation aims to use this investment to fill gaps in local services and help vulnerable young people across the county build a stable future.
