A new £5m grant scheme, designed to provide up to 1,000 paid training opportunities delivering traditional conservation skills to people across the UK, has been launched by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Skills for the Future will support organisations offering vocational learning in a range of traditional skills, as well as the use of new media and technology for people looking for a career in heritage. Organisations will be able to apply for funding between £100,000 and £1m to provide traineeships over a five-year period. The closing date for applications is 19 March 2010, with awards being made in May 2010.

HLF chair Dame Jenny Abramsky said: "More than ever in these difficult times, HLF wants to focus on offering people skills that will give them a future career and, at the same time, meet the needs of the sector. "This £5m commitment will ensure our heritage is protected for the future and represents a hugely exciting chance to attract people who might not usually consider a career in the heritage sector."

It is hoped that the Skills for the Future scheme will complement the HLF's Training Bursary Programme, which was handed a £2.85m boost in October to help seven projects deliver a wide range of skills training.