100:100 – Cairngorms youth fund marks double milestone
100:100 – Cairngorms youth fund marks double milestone
The Cairngorms Youth Local Action Group (Youth LAG) is celebrating two major milestones as it surpasses £100,000 in support for over 100 projects across the Cairngorms National Park.
Building on this success, a new £25,000 youth-focused funding pot is now open for applications, continuing the group’s mission to empower young people living, learning, and working in the National Park.
From funding training for young aspiring tennis coaches and mountain leaders, to film and photography equipment, woodworking tools, school orchards, bike sheds and book clubs for young people experiencing isolation, the Youth LAG fund has supported a wide range of inspirational projects for young people since its launch in 2021.
The fund’s criteria ask projects to consider skills development, nature connection, inclusion and inter-generational activities. The initiative is managed by young people, for young people, and is a partnership project delivered through The Cairngorms Trust, funded by the Cairngorms National Park Authority. The fund is open to individuals and groups under the age of 30 who live in the Cairngorms National Park or plan to carry out their project activities within the National Park boundaries.
Phoebe Nicol, member of the Cairngorms Youth LAG, said: "Being part of the Youth LAG has been incredible. It’s amazing to support projects that make a real difference, whether it is helping young people or groups start a nature project, giving them the tools to run a community event or supporting individuals to further their learning in a certain topic. This new round of funding is another opportunity for young people to take the lead."
Alan Smith, Outdoor Learning and Engagement Manager at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said: "This fund has grown into a powerful platform for youth empowerment and is one of the most established Youth LAGs in Scotland. The young people involved in running this fund have inspired groups in other parts of Scotland and have been invited to visit other groups to share knowledge on how the Cairngorms LAG works and how to manage funds effectively.
“It’s inspiring to see young people shaping their futures and contributing to the communities and landscapes of the Cairngorms."
The new round of funding is open for applications until 23 June 2025. Full details and application forms are available on The Cairngorms Trust website.
Alert
Latest from the National Park
Glenmore and Strath Nethy wildfire update - 26 July at 8pm
Grant Moir, Chief Executive of the Park Authority, shares an update from the scene of the wildfire in Nethy Bridge.
Glenmore and Strath Nethy wildfire update - 25 July at 11am
A brief update on the Glenmore and Strath Nethy wildfire
Glenmore and Strath Nethy wildfire update - 24 July at 8.30pm
A major incident has been declared as residents of Nethy Bridge are evacuated.
Relevant alerts
-
There is an ongoing wildfire situation at Glenmore within the Cairngorms National Park. Click here for all the latest. We would encourage members of the public to follow current guidance and be aware that the situation may change.
Due to the this wildfire incident, the following paths and routes are closed:
- All the paths around Loch Morlich, Glenmore and Badaguish are closed.
- The Ryvoan pass is closed, this includes all access to the Green Lochan (Lochan Uaine).
- Routes providing access to Cairngorm Mountain, the Northern Corries, Meall A’Bhuachaille, Strath Nethy and Bynack more should be avoided.
- The Abernethy Forest area to the south of Forest Lodge and towards Ryvoan bothy is closed.
-
Very high fire risk - 15 to 24 July
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has issued a very high wildfire warning impacting areas of the National Park on Wednesday 15 until Friday 24 July. If you are out and about in the Cairngorms National Park please observe the following guidance:
- Do not light any fire or barbecue, in line with the new fire byelaw
- Always ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished and take your litter (including glass) away with you
- Enjoy the outdoors responsibly - most wildfires are caused by human activity
- Stay alert - with dry vegetation and warm weather, fires can start easily, spread rapidly, and burn intensely
- If you see a wildfire, dial 999
For further updates on wildfire risk across Scotland, visit the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service website. To find out more about the fire byelaw, and to see your questions answered, visit our fire byelaw page here.