Acumen Legacy Fund

Supporting people in East Durham to overcome barriers to work, training and opportunity.

Empowering people into work

First established

Awarded in 2024/25

£ 0

People supported 2024/25

About Acumen Development Trust

The Acumen Community Enterprise Development Trust, also known as Acumen Development Trust, was a long-standing charity based in East Durham that supported people into work and training.

When the Trust closed in March 2024, its remaining funds were transferred to Point North to ensure this important support could continue.

Today, Point North manages Acumen Legacy Fund, continuing Acumen’s mission to help people in East Durham overcome barriers to employment, skills development and vocational training.

The fund provides practical grants for things like training, childcare, travel and equipment, helping local people take the next step towards work and opportunity.

“This grant has massively helped me with my new role in volunteering. It is much better to be able to do assignments and coursework on the laptop rather than trying to navigate a phone screen. It has revolutionised my life. I will be able to use the equipment in my role to help people like me. This means so much to me and I can’t thank you enough”

Grant holder

More from the Acumen Legacy Fund

Acumen Legacy Fund open

Up to £1,000 available for unemployed people living in East Durham who are facing barriers to employment, skills development or vocational training programmes.

“Sometimes what stands between someone and a new job isn’t confidence or ambition, it’s a bus fare, a childcare cost, or a set of work clothes. The Acumen Legacy Fund makes sure those barriers don’t hold people back. It’s about giving people the chance to move forward and create a brighter future for themselves and their families.”

Michelle Cooper, Chief Executive, Point North

Key impact data

Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goal on Reducing Inequalities, the Acumen Legacy Fund helps create fairer opportunities in East Durham. By supporting people who face financial, social or practical barriers to employment, training or skills development, the fund promotes inclusion and equality, making sure everyone has the chance to build confidence, independence and a brighter future.