Organisations which help to support grieving young people can now apply for grants thanks to a new fund.

Co-op Foundation has partnered with Co-op Funeralcare to make £50,000 available through the Co-op Foundation’s #iwill Fund to youth bereavement projects.

Swindon-based initiatives have from now to apply for grants of up to £10,000, until noon on Friday April 3.

Funding will be available for up to five social action projects that equip young people with the skills they need to provide peer support or help young people use their experiences as a way to speak up and recommend how local services can help other bereaved young people.

Jim Cooke, Head of Co-op Foundation said: “Losing a close friend or family member is difficult at any age, and it can be particularly tough for young people who might be dealing with other pressures at home, at school or in their social lives.

“Helping others going through similar experiences is a great way for young people to build their confidence, skills and sense of belonging. And by recommending how others can support bereaved young people better, they can make a long-term difference for their peers.”

To make an application visit www.coopfoundation.org.uk/funding_support/iwill-fund-bereavement/