Grants of up to £5,000 are available to UK registered charities, community and voluntary groups for projects that engage the public with the topic of dementia and the life-changing research going on into the condition.
The Fund is part of Alzheimer’s Research UK’s work to engage and empower the public by improving understanding of dementia and sharing the benefits of dementia research. Alzheimer’s Research UK wants to support new perspectives, talent and expertise to shed a spotlight on this important issue, and the scheme is open to anyone with the passion and skills to make that possible.
Inspire Fund projects must meet both core criteria:
- Projects must engage with underserved audiences on the topic of dementia, such as minority ethnic communities, marginalised or socioeconomically disadvantaged people, and
- Build knowledge and understanding about brain health (in the context of dementia risk reduction) and explore ways to encourage behaviour change.
Applications are encouraged from people, organisations and communities with ideas, passion and ability to realise innovative public engagement projects on the topic of dementia. From those within or outside the research community, those with a track record in public engagement and those looking to apply their skills to this important issue for the first time.
Through the scheme, Alzheimer’s Research UK wants to build relationships between communities and researchers, and are especially interested in proposals led by community groups or organisations. The Charity strongly encourage applicants to forge links with collaborators or groups to strengthen ideas. It recognises this can take time, and will therefore support relationship building in funded projects.
Projects can use a range of methods to engage with their audience. Applicants are advised to consider their audience when selecting methods of engagement, to ensure people are able to take part.
Grants of up to £5,000 per project are available to organisations that have not previously received an award from the Inspire Fund. The total budget available for allocation is £75,000.
Please note that past grant holders are eligible to apply for follow-on funding, and should contact the Involvement & Engagement team for more information by emailing engage@alzheimersresearchuk.org
Further information, guidance, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and details about how to apply are available on the Alzheimer’s Research UK website.
Alzheimer’s Research has scheduled an online information webinar for potential applicants to find out more about the scheme and ask questions. This will take place on Tuesday 17 September 2024 from 12-1pm. Register at this link.