“I used my trust fund to pay for driving lessons. Now I’ve passed my test, it’s easy to get to work and it’s given me freedom. It’s changed my life! ”
There could be government money waiting for you:
Your Child Trust Fund
If you were born in the UK between 1st September 2002 and 2nd January 2011 you are likely to have a Child Trust Fund.
This trust fund account was opened by the Government with a minimum of £250, this money is completely yours, we can help you access it.
You can take control of your fund from the age of 16 with your national insurance number, and you’ll be able to access the money once you turn 18.
If your parent, guardian or carer knows which account provider it's with, reach out to them. If not, don’t worry - we’re here to help. Just check you are ready to claim your money, then fill out our free ‘Find CTF’ online form and we'll help you find it.
Don’t forget to click YTF in the ‘how did you hear about us’ section!
Estimates suggest there are more than 32,000 unclaimed Child Trust Fund accounts in the North East and the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority is backing the youth lead, YTF campaign to help young people in the North East of England recover their lost trust funds. Don’t forget to click YTF when you fill in the web form so we know where you’re from!
In care, or a care leaver
If you are a young person in care or a care leaver, there is some good news. If you have ever been in care for 12 months or more (after 2nd January 2011) , the Government has set aside money for you savings account. This with either be called a Junior ISA or a Child Trust Fund.
With both accounts can take control of your fund from the age of 16 and you'll be able to access the money once you turn 18.
This money is yours to claim, all you need to do is check you are ready to claim your money, fill out our online form & don’t forget to click YTF in the ‘how did you hear about us’ section!
Boost your fund
If you are currently in care, you may be able to get paid to take part in life skills programmes:
Stepladder Plus- Learn how to manage your money, explore your future options and become more independent
Stepping Forward - Express yourself, try new things, and connect with other people.
Check you are ready to claim your money
Find Your Fund
To find your Child Trust Fund or Junior ISA you need to share your personal details:
Your name, date of birth and contact details
Any previous addresses you have lived at
Your National Insurance number (CTF only)
Take Control
To take control of your account you will need to show ID. Each account provider decides what ID they need to see, so you'll need to check their website. They may ask to see:
Photo ID - such as a Passport, Driving licence or PASS card
Proof of address - Bank Statement, Utility Bill, Council Tax bill, or a letter from HMRC or DWP
Get Your Money
You will also need a UK current or savings bank account in your name to withdraw the money. Don't worry if you haven't got one, it is free and easy to open one with most high street banks, building societies, credit unions or the post office.
Need help?
Get in touch with the team at ytf@sharefound.org
Your questions, answered
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You will need proof of ID, your national insurance number and be able to identify your full name and date of birth.
If you have ever changed your name, you will probably need to share this information to. -
No. Legally you can only have one or the other - not both.
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Your savings account is for you only, so to claim the money you will need a bank account in your name.
If you need support in opening a bank account speak with someone you trust, or you can get some advice from Citizens Advice
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That’s why we are here! Just fill out our FREE online form and we will be in touch:
findctf.sharefound.org -
YES! If you are a young person in care (and have been for 12 months or more continually can ‘earn as you learn’ though The Share Foundations Life Skills Programmes. Find out more