Supporting You
The RAF Central Fund Enrichment Grant Programme supports personnel on a larger scale, traditionally awarding bids to stations and units to benefit the maximum number of personnel.
As a charity, it is vital to us that we continue to understand and respond to the evolving needs of the serving RAF community. We work to gain a better understanding of how the challenges of service life affect the RAF community with regards to health and fitness and tailor our support accordingly.
Our grants team will work closely with you to ensure your tailored application is complete and ready for consideration by the Grants Committee. Applications may require significant support and therefore please do factor in sufficient time for this in advance of any deadlines.
Objectives
- Increase the number of serving personnel participating in sport and physical activities
- Increase the provision of sport and physical activity opportunities on stations and units
- Provide an opportunity for RAF serving personnel to detach from operational demands
- Provide positive experiences to support an increased sense of wellbeing
- Provide an increased sense of inclusivity within the RAF serving community
- Ensure RAF serving personnel feel valued
Timetable for 2025
Applications may be submitted throughout the year. Small to medium grant applications (up to £5,000) are reviewed for decision on a monthly basis. Large grants (up to £50,000) are subject to review by our Grants Committee at one of three meetings scheduled throughout the year.
Deadlines for completed applications for large grants:
- 14 February 2025
- 09 May 2025
- 12 September 2025
How to Apply
Please read our Grant Policy for further information about our Enrichment Grant programme.
Please contact our grants team to discuss your requirement for grant funding, establish which grant category is best suited to your project, and to receive the appropriate form. We will put you in touch with our relevant RAF Central Fund Station Ambassadors who can assist with your application, and it may also be beneficial to proactively engage your Station PEd Flt, Community Development Officer or SWO as part of your initial due diligence.
Applications will only be reviewed for decision once they have been:
- discussed with our grants team
- submitted on a 2025 form
- endorsed by your Station Commander
Get your Ambassador's Support
All major RAF Stations have an RAF Central Fund ambassador who provides support as a liaison between their station and the Fund. If you would like to contact your station ambassador about a project idea for your station or to get their support with an application then get in touch.
Latest News
View AllLatest News
Central Fund supports 2025 Alpine Challenge
The Alpine Challenge continues to provide a fantastic opportunity for personnel to enhance their wellbeing by taking on physical challenges whilst developing mental resilience and building social connections. Charitable funding from RAF Central Fund grant programmes supported this year’s Alpine Challenge in several ways.
14th February 2025
Latest News
RBL continue support for RAF Sport into second year
The RAF Central Fund is delighted to welcome the Royal British Legion (RBL) into their second year as a proud supporter of RAF Sport. Further strengthening this partnership enables RBL to showcase their commitment to inclusivity and to enhance brand awareness amongst serving personnel.
22nd January 2025
Latest News
Babcock commit to supporting RAF Sport with new agreement announced
The RAF Central Fund is delighted to announce that after a successful first year, Babcock International Group (Babcock), the defence and aerospace company, has agreed to continue its partnership as a proud supporter of RAF Sport into 2025.
11th December 2024
Latest News
Celebrating RAF Sportsman of the Year 2024: Mike Cutler
The 2024 RAF Sport Awards represented an opportunity to honour the finest athletic talent within the RAF Community, and this year’s RAF Sportsman of the Year award belonged to a truly extraordinary individual - Mike Cutler.
6th December 2024