Family Support Fund

The NYFTE Family Support Fund helps members and their families who may otherwise struggle to afford costs associated with NYFTE membership. This can cover: 

•       Membership fees 
•      Residential training costs 
•      Travel expenses (petrol/diesel costs or train tickets) 
•      Costs incurred for specific performance events such as festivals 
•      Essential costume & equipment 
                                                   

Families can apply in confidence for specific fees to be wholly or partially waived or for an amount to be paid to them to cover costs. The decision to award a bursary is made by the NYFTE treasurer and at least one other member of the NYFTE management committee. 
 
The fund was established in 2022 following an initial donation in memory of Mike & Mary Isaacs. Mike and Mary were dancers and folk enthusiasts. They danced with Whirligigs, (a North London dance team), together with the London Corps, a specialist Folk Dance team for spot demonstrations, during mid 1950’s to early 1980’s, at the Royal Albert Hall - Folk Dance Shows. For social Folk dancing, Mike & Mary were founder members of Thatcham Folk Dance Club. Mike joined the Beaux of London City Morris Men in 1954 and remained involved until they stopped public displays in 2006.  

A folk dance to celebrate the lives of Mike and Mary was held on Sunday 15th May 2022, at Mike's bequest. Mary had died in 2016 (aged 93), whilst Mike died in January 2021 (aged 90). Funds raised at the dance were donated to NYFTE, who are very grateful for the support towards future generations of folk dancers and musicians. NYFTE have pledged to supplement this with additional funds either from general fundraising or from specific future legacy donations. 

If anybody who would like to contribute to the Family Support Fund or general NYFTE running costs, we'd be very grateful. Please visit our fundraising page for details.