Sparklers FAQ's

1. Do I need a support worker?
Yes. You do need a mentor for this programme.

This could be a key worker, someone providing guidance concerning training or employment such as a housing support officer, a mental health worker, or a probation officer.

• The support worker’s or mentor’s organisation must have known and worked with the applicant for at least 6 months prior to applying and be in a position to provide all the required information in the reference statement.
• One reference must be from the supporting organisation or charity.

If you don’t have a support worker or would like to discuss any aspect of the above issues raised in this point please contact sparklers@sparkchallenge.org.uk

2. Is it ok to look for funding from other sources while applying to Sparklers?
Yes, we do not have any funding restrictions in place with regard to other funding feeding into your project. In fact, we would encourage this.

3. Will Spark fund sole traders? 
Yes, we can fund sole traders.

4. Does my project have to be a social enterprise? 
Spark supports social enterprises and therefore we would like to support individuals who are setting up businesses that will have some benefit to the community. 

5. If you want to get funding to work with a specific group in society, is that ok? 
Yes, just explain the social impact the project will generate, what you want to do and the positive difference your project would make. 

6. How do I present need and demand and objectives like impact?
When it comes to need and demand for your project, it is for you to present information to us: maybe you have gone into your community and seen that the need exists by talking to people first hand, or by doing a survey. You could also run a taster session of what you want to do and also look if there are any competitors providing something similar or not. It can be a mix of first hand research and more statistical measures. For impact, you need to let us know what will change as a result of the project taking place. 

7. What costs can I include in my budget? 
You can apply for project costs that you need to cover to get your project up and running. Eligible costs include venue hire, equipment, salary costs, CRB check, volunteer costs, marketing, a website if you can demonstrate a strong need for having one etc you can include that cost too in your budget.

8. Will I need a CRB Check? 
We are committed to safeguarding all involved in the programme therefore expect all involved to share this commitment. If you will be working with children, young people under 18 and other vulnerable groups and adults you may need to have an enhanced CRB check.

If you have any questions about Sparklers please contact us on: 0116 2994466 or sparklers@sparkchallenge.org.uk.