Funding Available for Inclusive Summer Activities Across Mid and East Antrim

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has launched a new £12,000 Inclusive Summer Opportunities Grant Funding Scheme to support organisations delivering free summer activities for children and young people with disabilities. Grants of up to £4,000 are available in Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne areas. Applications are now open for projects running between July and August 2026.

Mid and East Antrim Council Launches Inclusive Summer Funding Scheme

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has introduced its first-ever Inclusive Summer Opportunities Grant Funding Scheme to help create more accessible and inclusive summer activities for children and young people with disabilities across the Borough.

The new funding initiative will provide a total of £12,000 to support organisations delivering engaging, accessible and free activities during the summer months.

The scheme aims to encourage:

• Social interaction
• Confidence building
• Learning opportunities
• Physical wellbeing
• Mental wellbeing

Projects must run between 1 July and 31 August 2026 and involve multiple sessions rather than one-off events.

What Activities Can Be Funded?

Eligible projects may include:

• Inclusive sports and recreation activities
• Creative arts activities
• Inclusive day activities and local trips
• Community events
• Educational and developmental programmes

The Council says the funding is designed to support children and young people with complex disability needs while helping families access meaningful activities during the summer period.

Up to £4,000 Available Per Area

Funding of up to £4,000 is available across the Borough’s three main areas:

• Ballymena
• Carrickfergus
• Larne

Local charities and community organisations are being encouraged to apply.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the funding, applicants must:

• Be a formally constituted not-for-profit organisation
• Have a current committee in place
• Be based within Mid and East Antrim
• Have experience supporting children and young people with complex disability needs

The Council said feedback from parents and carers will also play an important role in assessing the success of the programme.

How to Apply

Guidance notes and online applications are available through the Council website:

Apply for the Inclusive Summer Opportunities Grant Scheme