Right now, too many young people face financial barriers that put opportunities like the DofE out of reach. Some never get the chance to start. Others struggle to continue when budgets become harder to manage.
One in four young people feel excluded from society due to a lack of money. At a time when so many feel left behind, the DofE is more important than ever – providing opportunities to build confidence, purpose and self-belief.
With your support, more young people can access the life-changing opportunities of a DofE programme. Your donation can help make sure that money doesn’t stand in the way of a young person discovering what they’re capable of.
Dylan’s story
When Dylan was at school, he really struggled in the classroom and couldn’t wait to leave. Thanks to funding, he was able to start his DofE – this unlocked opportunities he never thought possible. Today, he’s thriving as an apprentice Valve Technician and building a brighter future for himself.
Hear more from Dylan.

Families across the UK are facing real hardships. Headteacher Ed sees this every day as they struggle to afford the basics and anything beyond that feeling impossible for many.
“The cost-of-living crisis hasn’t gone away. Young people and families are having to make hard decisions about what they do with their money, but also with their time, with more and more young people being expected to work after school for long hours in order to contribute to the family home.
The DofE gives young people a compass that they can look at and set some direction when they’re feeling a little bit lost.”
How you can support young people
Every young person deserves the chance to challenge themselves, gain confidence and discover what they’re capable of. Right now, too many are at risk of missing out because money is tight at home.
Will you make a donation today to help ensure financial hardship doesn’t prevent a young person from doing their DofE?
Your donation could help:
- £33 could enable a young person to start their DofE journey, helping them rewrite the rules on what they think is possible
- £75 could provide the extra support needed to continue their DofE when money is tight, helping cover the costs of materials, kit or transport
- £250 could fund a complete Bronze DofE experience for someone facing financial hardship.
Whether it’s helping someone start their DofE or providing the extra support they need to continue, your gift can help ensure money doesn’t stand in the way of a life-changing DofE journey.
