After a successful launch in 2024, British Ice Skating are pleased to announce that applications are now open for the second round of recipients of the John Hayward Athlete Support Fund, which aims to support up and coming skaters to reach their potential within figure skating and help reduce financial barriers associated with competitive skating.
The fund is made possible by a generous donation from the John Hayward Memorial Challenge, a charity that focuses on supporting children's recreational activities when there are limited funds available.
Last year, we successfully awarded the grant to six skaters across the UK and have worked to develop the funding to increase its impact and visibility. Now in its second year, we are excited to invite new and previous applicants (including those who were awarded a grant) to put themselves forward for this year’s funding opportunity.
Find out more about the fund and how you can apply:
About John Hayward
When John Hayward was growing up, he was a lively, exuberant youngster, always full of fun and laughter; when he discovered ice skating, the sheer joy of performing and entertaining on skates became the focus of his life.
His family supported and encouraged him as he worked hard, not just on the ice but, once he became old enough, in various jobs to help pay for extra training, extra practice time and additional equipment such as stilts (yes stilts - he used them in one of his on-ice gala performances!)
He may not have had the television appearances of a Curry, Cousins or Torvill & Dean but he sure knew how to entertain the crowd! This exceptional talent eventually gave him the chance to travel far and wide performing with “Holiday on Ice” - the spectacular show bringing colour and excitement into the lives of so many people in so many different countries around the world.
Sadly, shortly after celebrating his 30th birthday the family were devastated to learn of John's untimely death in France. The words that sprang to mind for all who knew and worked with him were ‘what a waste. A waste of talent - and of a vibrant young life!' It was John’s zest for life, love of performing and dedication to his skating that prompted the family to set up the Fund and here we are now, helping to bring it to the BIS Membership.
About the John Hayward Memorial Challenge
The charity’s sole aim is to support a child's willingness to learn a recreational activity when there are limited funds available. The charity is established using the name of John Hayward, a young man who had a passion for ice skating. John’s struggle to become a world class ice performer was supported by hard work and love. And like for so many, it wasn’t easy. The Trust's aim is not to make learning easy, but to provide the access to the necessary skills and equipment when they don't exist in your local area.
2025 Funding Awards
In this second funding cycle, there are six individual £500 awards to be presented to skaters to support their competitive skating. The funds must be spent within 12 months of being awarded on skating equipment, training camps, competition entries, skating-related travel expenses or other skating-related learning opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
Athletes applying for the fund must meet the eligibility criteria below:
Age between 7 - 14 years of sporting age.
Minimum Skating level:
7-8 years old (sporting age): BIS level 1 skills
9-11 years old (sporting age): BIS level 3 skills
12 – 14 years old (sporting age): BIS level 5 skills
Must be in full-time education (a requirement of the charity)
Be a valid BIS Member.
Not be serving any suspensions relating to Anti-Doping or disciplinary offences.
Application and Selection
Application forms must be fully completed and sent to Andrew.Hibberd@iceskating.org.uk by 17th February 2025.
The Selection Panel will be made up of representatives of British Ice Skating - across all Figure Skating disciplines and will be announced before the close of applications.
Selection will be based on the following criteria:
The need for financial support to continue training and competitive opportunities.
Results and progression through British Ice Skating pathways and Club competitions.
Full funding information and the application form can be downloaded here:
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