Hope Funded: Genuine Futures Wins National Lottery Backing to Empower Youth
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Bolton, UK – June 2025 — A powerful new wave of opportunity is coming for young people across Greater Manchester as Genuine Futures proudly announces it has been awarded funding from the National Lottery Community Fund to expand its mission of changing lives.
This crucial funding will allow Genuine Futures to reach even more young people aged 15–24 who are not currently in education, employment, or training — offering them meaningful support, positive experiences, and the tools to build brighter futures.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to receive this funding,” said Sam Smith, Founder of Genuine Futures. “It’s not just a win for our team — it’s a win for every young person who feels left behind. This grant allows us to scale up our support, reach further into communities, and help more young people turn their potential into purpose.”
The funding will enable Genuine Futures to deliver targeted programmes directly in schools and organisations that support young people, including those working with children at risk of exclusion. These sessions will include personal development workshops, enterprise activities, and real-life talks from people with lived experience — all designed to build confidence, spark ambition, and prevent young people from slipping through the cracks.
In addition to its work in education and community settings, Genuine Futures provides practical, hands-on opportunities that teach life and work skills, promote emotional resilience, and create clear routes into employment, training, or entrepreneurship. From outdoor team projects to digital learning and creative enterprise, the organisation creates safe and inspiring environments where young people are empowered to reset, grow, and thrive.
The funding will also support new outreach efforts to engage those most at risk of long-term disconnection — offering them hope, belonging, and a tangible path forward.
Mike Alleyne, Director of Genuine Futures, added: “This support from the National Lottery Community Fund couldn’t have come at a better time. With so many young people facing uncertainty, exclusion, or lack of opportunity, we’re determined to meet them where they are — and walk with them towards something better.”
This funding marks a powerful step forward in tackling youth disengagement and offering real, lasting change for the next generation.
Congratulations to the entire Genuine Futures team — the future just got a whole lot brighter.