The Air Cadet Charity is launching a new dedicated Adventure Training (AT) Equipment Grant to help more cadets access safe, high-quality outdoor activities across Royal Air Force Air Cadets.

Opening on 29^th May 2026, the new programme has been designed to support squadrons and wider RAFAC units in building reusable equipment banks that can be used again and again by cadets taking part in AT activities.

Rather than relying on cadets to source expensive kit themselves, the programme focuses on providing shared equipment that removes barriers to participation and helps more young people get involved.

AT plays a huge role in cadet development. From first expeditions and overnight camps through to wider outdoor challenges, these experiences help build confidence, resilience, teamwork, leadership and practical life skills, often in ways that classrooms simply cannot.

Supporting access, not ownership

The new grant forms part of the Charity’s wider move towards dedicated funding programmes for specific activities and equipment types, creating a more consistent and strategic approach to grant-making. To help manage the anticipated high demand of this grant programme, the launch will be divided into phases.

For Phase 1, the focus will be on equipment supporting:

• Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions 
• RAFAC Blue Badge AT activity 

Importantly, the grant is designed around reusable loan kit rather than personal ownership. Equipment such as rucksacks and sleeping bags may be funded where they will be retained and managed by the squadron, sector, wing or region for ongoing cadet use.

The aim is simple: fewer cadets missing opportunities because they do not have access to suitable equipment.

Encouraging shared-use applications

The Charity is particularly keen to support applications that benefit multiple units and maximise long-term impact.

Sector-level applications, shared kit banks and collaborative approaches between squadrons are strongly encouraged, helping equipment reach more cadets across wider areas.

This not only improves value for money, but also helps create sustainable local resources that can support AT activity for years to come.

What equipment will be supported?

Phase 1 will support a range of core expedition and outdoor equipment, including:

• Waterproof clothing 
• Sleeping bags and sleeping mats 
• Rucksacks 
• Headtorches 
• Group first aid kits 
• Tents 
• Camping stoves 
• Compasses 
• Other approved expedition equipment 

To ensure consistency and appropriate standards, applications will need to align with an approved AT kit schedule.

The programme will not normally support personal clothing, food, individual ownership items or specialist higher-level AT equipment during Phase 1.

Key dates

Applications for the AT Equipment Grant are expected to open on 29 May 2026 and close on 30 June 2026.

The grant will be open to squadrons, sectors, wings, regions and relevant RAFAC HQ departments.

Applications will be submitted online through the Air Cadet Charity grant portal using a dedicated AT Equipment Grant pathway.

Questions about the programme can be directed to: grants@aircadetcharity.org.uk

The Charity hopes the new programme will help more cadets take part in outdoor activity regardless of background or financial circumstance.