Chance to See
Where creativity meets opportunity
Too many families face financial barriers that limit access to music lessons, theatre trips and other creative opportunities.
This fund tackles those barriers head-on, connecting young people with artists, organisations and experiences that spark joy and build confidence.
Named after The Lathums' 2021 single How Beautiful Life Can Be, the fund supports young people to discover their creative potential and take steps towards careers in the arts.
We distribute funds through local arts organisations and targeted youth services, providing direct support to the young people and families who need it most.
As the Wigan Borough Mayor’s Charity for 2025–26, we’re proud to shine a light on what’s possible when creativity is made accessible to all.
Creativity and joy amidst economic challenges
The Lathums' band members feel a strong calling to give back to the Wigan area, the place that nurtured their creative journey.
Every child deserves access to creative opportunities, regardless of their background or circumstances. Yet we know that for too many young people and their families, financial barriers stand in the way. The Chance to See Fund directly addresses this inequality by covering the costs that prevent participation - from buying instruments or paying for singing lessons, to tickets, food and transport.
It is our commitment that financial circumstances should not determine who gets to be inspired or explore their creativity.
The Chance to See Fund is already supporting many young people in Wigan and Leigh as they pursue their passions and talents.
Music makes me feel like I am wanted in life. It is the only thing keeping me sane.
A young Chance to See grant recipient
Apply for a grant
If you are based in Wigan Borough, you could qualify for funding for your creative activity or project. The Fund has been distributing grants to young individuals (ages 11–18) and community-based organisations since early 2024.
When to apply
Watch this space for new rounds of funding to be announced shortly.
We see firsthand the impact and joy that creative opportunities continue to have on young people in Wigan every day.
Zha Olu, Music and Media Co-ordinator, Wigan Youth Zone
Every donation helps to spark a brighter future
By making a one-off gift or a monthly contribution, you are bringing creativity within reach, opening doors for young people in Wigan to dream bigger, grow in confidence and shape futures filled with possibility.
Fundraise
Are you ready to get involved at a deeper level? Join us as a Chance To See fundraiser!
Maybe you're a local business or community group. Perhaps you're an individual who wants to help. We invite you to reach out to us. Your fundraising can change lives and spread hope.
Spread the word
Help us shout about the Chance To See Fund.
By sharing our mission with your friends, family and social networks, you can play a crucial role in fostering creativity and hope in Wigan Borough.
- Share our story: Post about the Chance To See Fund on your social media channels. Use our hashtag #ChanceToSeeFund and tag us to spread the word.
- Tell a friend: Talk to your friends, colleagues and community about the impact of creativity on young lives. Personal referrals make a huge difference!
Every share, mention and conversation helps us reach more people and make a bigger impact.
Hear from The Lathums
At an event to mark the launch of the Chance to See initiative, The Lathums spoke about what the Fund means to them and why they were inspired to join forces with Curious Minds to make it a reality.
Curious to know more?
If you’re interested in learning more about the Chance to See Fund or Curious Minds' wider work to make creative education and cultural learning more available and accessible, we’d love to hear from you.
You can email us or get in touch using the contact details below.
