We at ECCAN believe everyone should have a chance to be part of the climate conversation, no matter what. That's why we've created the Participation Fund. It's here to help cover costs that might stop you from joining our workshops, events, and other activities we host. 

Who Can Apply? 

If you are a network member and you’re facing any barriers that stop you from coming to our events, you're welcome to apply. We especially want to hear from folks from groups who are often marginalised and anyone who's passionate about climate action. We look at each application individually, so just tell us your story. 

What We Can Help With: 

We can cover costs directly related to getting to our events, like: 

• Travel: Bus, train, tram – whatever gets you there (and back!). If you need someone to come with you, we can usually cover their travel too. If public transport isn't an option, we might be able to help with other transport. 

• Childcare: Need someone to look after the kids while you're at one of our events? We can help with that! This could be through a babysitting agency (we might even have a preferred one we work with), or by funding travel arrangements for a trusted friend or family member to look after the kids in your own home. 

• Carer Support: If you need a carer to come along, we can cover their travel and maybe even some respite care for the person you're caring for. 

• Other Access Needs: Need something else to help you take part, like sign language interpretation, translation, or special equipment? Get in touch, and we'll see what we can do. 

How to Apply: 

• Just fill out a Participation Fund application form – you can find it here or ask us for one. 

• Try to send it in at least 3 weeks before the event, so we have time to sort things out. If it's a last-minute thing, get in touch anyway – we'll see what we can do. 

• In your application, tell us:  

• Which event you want to go to and what barrier is stopping you from attending. 

• Exactly what costs you need help with (travel, childcare, etc.), and if you can, send us some proof (like travel quotes or carer companion costs). 

• If childcare's involved, let us know how many children you are needing looked after, and what your childcare preference is. 

What Happens Next? 

• Someone at ECCAN will look over your application. 

• We'll decide based on your needs, how much money we have in the fund, and the specific event details (ie, we will not provide childcare for events held during school hours). 

• We'll let you know our decision within 2 weeks. 

• Our decision is final (but if you have any questions, please get in touch!) 

How We Pay: 

• We'll usually pay companies directly (like the train or a childcare agency). 

• If you've already paid for something we approved, we'll reimburse you when you send us the receipts. 

• It usually takes about 2 weeks to get your money. 

Your Feedback Matters: 

• After the event, we might ask you to tell us about your experience and how the fund helped you. This helps us make the fund even better. 

Confidentiality: 

Anything you tell us in your application will be kept private. 

Get in Touch! 

Got any questions about the Participation Fund? Just email us or give us a call during office hours on 07562 595577. 

We Might Change Things Sometimes: 

Based on our learnings, we might tweak this policy every now and then, so keep an eye on our website for updates.