Hidden Voices programme now open for applications!
Introducing the Armed Forces Covenant Fund: Hidden Voices Programme; one of the exciting new initiatives we’re launching under our three-year Covenant Fund Framework.
From today, we’re accepting applications for grants up to £20,000 to support projects that provide accessible mental health and wellbeing services for under-represented serving Armed Forces personnel, Reservists, Veterans and families.
What is the Hidden Voices programme all about?
We’ve designed this programme to implement a collaborative approach between Armed Forces and specialist non-Armed Forces organisations, aiming to address the specific needs of seldom-heard groups and their access to defined mental health and wellbeing support, as well as to identify known and unknown gaps in service provision.
In our Covenant Consultation last year, you told us that we should have a particular focus on reducing isolation and loneliness for Armed Forces communities. This programme will enable and deliver accessible mental health and wellbeing support to meet this need.
Our consultation findings are available to read on our website.
The Hidden Voices programme will tackle this issue directly by requiring projects to achieve all the following programme outcomes:
- Build collaborative partnerships between Armed Forces organisations and specialist non- Armed Forces organisations
- Identity and address known and unknown gaps in service provision
- Provide accessible, preventative and defined interventions
- Increase knowledge and understanding with mainstream voluntary sector of the unique needs of the Armed Forces community
Who can apply?
UK-based registered charities and Community interest Companies (CIC) with substantial recent experience of supporting Armed Forces communities can apply. A full list of eligibility guidance is available on our programme page at the link below.
What type of projects are we looking to support?
We are looking for projects that can focus on supporting those who are ‘seldom heard’ in the Armed Forces community; enabling them to access tailored mental health and wellbeing support. You’ll need to show us how your project will emphasise prevention and early intervention through collaborative efforts aimed at identifying both known and unknown gaps in service provision.
The first application deadline is 12pm on 11 September 2024. You will receive a decision before end of December 2024. There will be a second round of funding closing early in 20225.
Find out more
You can find full details of the programme, eligibility and how to apply on our dedicated programme page.
We’ll be launching more Covenant Fund programmes in the coming weeks – keep an eye on our website and social channels for more information…