England

Interest-free loans are available to musicians at all stages for the purchase of musical instruments and equipment, to help ensure that more people across England and Northern Ireland can access instruments and learn to play music. 

The loans, which are made available through the Take it Away Scheme, work with 130 music retailers to allow applicants to buy almost any musical instrument and can also be used for musical equipment, software and tuition. 

The Hedley Foundation is inviting applications from small-to-mid-size registered charities helping to improve the quality of life of people in the UK, particularly those who are disadvantaged and vulnerable. 

The Foundation typically makes around 250 awards of up to £5,000 each year for initiatives that benefit the lives of young people, disabled people, elderly people, the terminally ill and otherwise disadvantaged people and their carers. Occasional larger sums are given to charities where high impact can be achieved.