YOUNG people across Wiltshire starting vocational courses or apprenticeships this September could be eligible for grants of up to £1,000 to help cover the cost of training.

Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation has opened applications for its Vocational Grants programme, which supports 14 to 24-year-olds from low-income families with the expenses that can make education difficult to afford.

The funding can be used for essential equipment, laptops, specialist tools, uniforms, study trips and, in some cases, travel costs.

It is available to students taking vocational courses ranging from engineering and construction to hairdressing, health and social care, business, IT and professional cookery, as well as apprentices.

Programmes director at Wiltshire & Swindon Community Foundation Heather Kiel said: “Our Vocational Grants programme provides vital support to young people across Wiltshire and Swindon each year, helping them take their next steps.

“The programme supports young people as they pursue their vocational studies and access opportunities that may previously have felt out of reach.

“By easing some of the financial barriers to training and education, these grants can make a real difference.”

One previous recipient, Liam, used the grant to buy a laptop and safety footwear for his college courses.

He said: “This support has really helped me to progress on my courses. My mum is a single parent raising two children, so that extra bit of support really helped.”

Applications for the 2026/27 academic year are now open and close on October 16.