The Eddie Byers Fund
The Eddie Byers Fund was created to transform lives through learning. We created the fund in the memory of a former chief executive of English UK - who was passionate about the transformative power of education - to help aspiring students study English for better employment, education and community life.
Projects we have supported
In its first three years, the Eddie Byers Fund supported refugees and asylum seekers gain employment, enter education and access essential services and feel a part of their communities in the UK. It also funded teacher training in Tanzania to help young pupils attend high school, which is taught in English, and English teaching in Palestine.
Eddie believed that education transforms people's lives and wanted English UK to more directly provide learning opportunities to those who are disadvantaged. We are proud to have created a lasting legacy in his name, focused on learning English.
Help us change lives through learning
The fund is entirely created by donations and we have been overwhelmed by supporters' kind words and generosity. We welcome donations at any time but also take on fundraising challenges such as the national and Yorkshire three peak hiking challenges.
We had to cancel our Isle of Wight Challenge planned for 2020 but hope that a new challenge will be possible soon.
How does the fund work?
The fund is open to applications from UK-registered charities only, during specific periods: we will advertise when the fund reopens, including details about the value of the awards available.
The applicant's services must be non-discriminatory and the proposed project must have English language teaching at its core.
Applications will be assessed based on the information provided in the application form. We look for projects with a tangible, positive impact; that address significant need; focus on English language; and engage and benefit the wider community.
