Atom bank re-opens fund to help sixth-form students
Atom bank, called the UK’s most trusted bank on Trustpilot, has announced the re-opening of its Atom Futures Fund, which it runs in partnership with Point North.
The fund was set up to support sixth-form students from low-income backgrounds, those in the care system, or those who are carers, to apply to and attend a Russell Group university.
The fund supports study in any subject at the 24 research-intensive universities that are part of the Russell Group.
The scheme is targeted at year 13 students in state-funded education in County Durham.
After last year’s success, Point North is once again accepting applications for Part One of the Atom Futures Fund.
This offers a £250 financial incentive to at least 20 eligible Year 13 students in County Durham who are applying to any course at a Russell Group University.
The funding can be used for various aspects of the university application process, such as interview preparation, travel expenses, and study materials.
The deadline for applications is April 6.
In 2024, Atom bank provided a total of £10,000 in support through the Atom Futures Fund, demonstrating its commitment to improving higher education access and social mobility in the North East.
The quality of the applications received last year led Point North to increase its match funding, allowing the fund to support more students in the coming year.
Edward Twiddy, director of ESG at Atom bank, said: “Attending a Russell Group University provides many young people with a future rich in opportunities and the best chance of fulfilling their potential.
“But too many talented children from low-income backgrounds, growing up in care or providing care aren’t getting these chances, and this is especially true in the North East where outcomes and opportunities for young people are amongst the poorest in the UK.
“We aim to break down some of the barriers that can be put in front of young people, and in doing so help foster excellence in our region.”
Michelle Cooper, chief executive at Point North, said: “We’re thrilled to build on the success of the first round of the Atom Futures Fund by increasing our match funding so that, together with Atom bank, we can support even more students from County Durham into Russell Group Universities.
“Poverty and its consequences steal people’s futures.
“Our grants help to interrupt that cycle.
“By removing the money worries and financial barriers that stop people from accessing or pursuing opportunities, we ensure that our young people’s futures are bright and full of promise.
“The Atom Futures Fund makes sure it’s talent and ambition, not background, that determine a young person’s future.
“We look forward to seeing the difference the fund makes in the years to come as we follow the journeys of talented County Durham students.”
A recipient of the Futures Fund in 2024 said: “The Atom Futures Fund recognises that ability, not background, is what matters.
“You putting your faith in me is not something I take lightly.
“It means that you see me for who I am, and believe my potential is a worthy investment.”
The Atom Futures Fund is part of Atom bank’s wider programme of support for young people in the North East, which includes Women in Technology Scholarships at Durham University, partnerships with Durham Sixth Form Centre and the EY Foundation Smart Futures Chartered Banker Institute Programme, as well as funding scholarships and engaging with STEM education charities.