Ask The Question CIC thanks QFUTURES and the Community Foundation For Calderdale for generous grant

Ask The Question CIC extends heartfelt thanks to QFutures (Quickline), and the Community Foundation For Calderdale for their generous grant support, enabling their students to overcome digital disadvantage. Through this funding, Ask The Question CIC has been able to provide digital resources and support to students in Calderdale who face a ‘digital divide’ and who otherwise would not have access to digital resources such as stable wifi and laptops.

One of the students they are supporting with this grant is Ellie (name changed for anonymity), who is living in kinship care and who has limited access to digital resources at home. Without a laptop or stable WiFi, she finds it difficult to complete school assignments, as well as explore potential university options and submit applications. Thanks to the funding received, Ellie has gained access to a quiet and warm study space in the heart of Hebden Bridge, reliable high-speed internet, digital equipment, and one-to-one mentorship from a member of the Ask The Question CIC team. The team are working closely with her to build confidence, refine her personal statement and also support with school work and revision.  Ellie’s success is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when young people are given the right tools and support. This grant has not only provided essential academic resources—it has affirmed our belief that all students, regardless of their background, deserve the opportunity to thrive.

Ask The Question CIC provides one-to-one tuition and mentorship to children and teenagers in Calderdale who have experienced adverse childhood experiences, in particular those who have suffered as a result of abuse, neglect and trauma. They have worked with over 150 students since they were formally founded in 2017, over half of which have had experience of local authority care.

Students who attend sessions through Ask The Question CIC have consistently reached their potential, with every student passing their Maths and English GCSE, and three students this year going on to attend a Russell Group University. They recently celebrated all of their 11+ students passing the 11+ exam.

Jo Austin, founder of Ask The Question CIC, said, “The support from QFutures (Quickline) and the Community Foundation for Calderdale reflects a shared commitment to breaking down barriers in Calderdale and building a more equitable future for students from disadvantaged backgrounds in our community. We are incredibly grateful for their partnership and belief in our mission. Together, we are showing young people that their aspirations are valid, achievable, and worth investing in.”