How your trust can change lives

Every year, thousands of young people miss out on the chance to step beyond the limits of their everyday lives. 

Many face barriers that hold them back - financial, social, and emotional. At The Outward Bound Trust, we offer something different: the chance to push forward, not fall behind.

Thanks to the support of over 80 trusts and foundations, over 1,900 young people aged 9 to 24 participate in Outward Bound programmes each year. For many, it’s the first time they’ve seen themselves as capable, connected and full of potential.

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What your support makes possible

Your funding makes a difference where it matters most. With your support, we can:

  • Open the door to young people who wouldn't otherwise be able to take part.
  • Reach priority communities and develop targeted programmes for wellbeing, employability and leadership.
  • Fund evidence-based evaluation so we can learn, improve and demonstrate long-term impact.
  • Invest in places and people - from improving existing centres or developing new facilities, to training the instructors who make it happen.

Together, we’ll ensure young people don’t just survive tough times - they grow through them.

A young woman climbing out of water, smiling, wearing a blue and red waterproof jacket and a backpack, with water and a dock in the background.

The difference you make

Backed by belief

Each year, Trusts and Foundations help over 1,900 young people step outside their everyday and into something bigger. 

Your support doesn’t just fund places, it opens doors to stronger futures.

Five minimalist line-drawn figures representing different genders and identities, with symbols above their heads indicating diversity and inclusivity.

Confidence that lasts

85% of young people who received a bursary say their course helped them feel more confident. 

The experience may last days, but the self-belief it builds lasts far longer.

A circular infographic showing 85%, with the percentage in the centre and a partially filled outer ring indicating the proportion.

Stronger together

By the end of their course, 88% of young people say they’re better at connecting and communicating with others. 

Skills like teamwork, empathy and collaboration shape individuals and strengthen communities.

A circular progress chart showing 88% completion, with a teal blue ring filled almost entirely and a central percentage displayed in bold text.

I used to feel embarrassed when I was wrong, but now because I’ve gotten closer with my team, I feel confident no matter what. 

Abdullah, 12, Dixon’s Trinity Academy, Bradford.

If your trust or foundation shares our belief in the power of outdoor learning, we’d love to explore how we can work together.

Get in touch

Who we work with

We’re proud to be supported by a wide range of funders, including:

  • The Thompson Family Charitable Trust
  • The Constance Travis Charitable Trust
  • Ernest Cook Trust       
  • Philip Gower Foundation
  • Old Hall Trust
  • North West Young People's Development Trust
  • UK Youth
  • The Ingram Trust
  • The Steel Charitable Trust
  • The 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust
  • The Scott (Eredine) Charitable Trust
  • Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
  • The Hutchinson Charitable Trust
  • The Eveson Trust
  • The Hutchinson Charitable Trust
  • The Sir James Knott Trust
  • Wax Chandlers' Charitable Trust / William Kendall's Charity
  • The Johnnie Johnson Trust
  • The Edward Smart Charitable Trust       
  • The Bawden Fund
  • The Andrew Harris Charitable Trust       
  • Simon Gibson Charitable Trust
  • The Derek Raphael Charitable Trust
  • Edith Murphy Foundation
  • Michael Cornish Charitable Trust
  • P F Charitable Trust     

Your trust could be part of this story too.