A YORK group which helps to provide vital opportunities for young people has stepped up its offerings after receiving a grant.

Keeping Digital Foundation in York is one of eleven projects across the north of England that has been awarded funds totalling £100,000 by Northern Trains.

The train operator’s Customer & Community Improvement Fund opened for applications in May, with schemes that focussed on early careers, education outreach and inclusive employment encouraged to apply.

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Grants were donated to charities across the North of England that offered vocational training, music lessons, training aimed at disabled and neurodivergent young people, and projects that help people get back into work - in addition to the York based coding group.

According to group co-founder, Luke Castle, the funding awarded to Keeping Digital Foundation will go towards increasing the frequency of their courses - moving classes from bi-monthly to fortnightly and free coding clubs for young people in New Earswick.

He said the grant will ensure every young person has an equal opportunity when it comes to learning STEM skills, and will ensure laptops and improved systems are in place to deal with the increased demand in services.

Luke said: "We are incredibly grateful to Northern for their generous support through the Customer & Community Improvement Fund.

“It's amazing to see a local business and such an important train operator further commit to its local community. This funding will enable us to continue our work in helping young people develop the vital digital skills needed for careers in STEM.

“By equipping the next generation with the tools and knowledge to succeed, we are not only empowering individuals but also strengthening the future of our region. We look forward to expanding our reach and making an even greater impact in the communities we serve."

He continued: “Our services work to ensure everyone can access vital services online and that everyone has equal opportunities to STEM education, regardless of their backgrounds.

“We currently do this through a range of services, from Digital Cafes that work with local residents to help them use things like the NHS app, or our digital making activities that allow young people to learn to code and develop projects in a supportive environment.”

Tricia Williams, managing director of Northern, said: “Helping to improve social mobility across our network is something we see as really important. With our support, these groups can make a huge difference to people’s lives and we look forward to hearing the many success stories that will follow.”