The aim of the IYF (UK) is to raise funds and award grants that benefit a wide range of projects that help improve the lives of children and young disadvantaged Irish people in Britain and Northern Ireland. The IYF has donated over £5.75 million to projects to date and is the only national charity in Britain specifically aimed at helping young Irish people. The types of projects the IYF supports provide help and support for the homeless, employment and training schemes, women and children escaping violence, young offenders and prisoners, drug rehabilitation, and cultural activities. The people who benefit are made up of socially, economically or culturally disadvantaged young Irish adults and children, and the aim is to help them lead a more integrated and fulfilling life. Each year the IYF receives several grant applications from projects all over Britain and Northern Ireland. The IYF has an independent Advisory Committee, made up of various specialists in the sector. Our expert committee uses well-defined criteria and assesses grant applications on an annual basis. Once the Advisory Committee has made all their assessments, they then make their recommendations to the IYF Board of Trustees.