The Tinsley Fund – Helping to Overcome Barriers to Training

The Tinsley Fund was set up in memory of Mike Tinsley, a respected engineer and IOR member whose career reflected professionalism, resilience, and support for others. The fund offers targeted financial help for people facing barriers to entering or progressing in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector.

The fund’s scope is specifically designed to support individuals who face challenges such as physical or long‑term health conditions, learning differences, mental health conditions, or difficulties accessing training or equipment, including ex‑service personnel moving into technical roles.

Grants of up to £1,000 can be used for training courses, specialist tools, practical training support, or assistive technology. Successful applications will also receive a one-year IOR student membership or EngTech subscription. Applications are simple and open year‑round, with successful applicants asked to share a short update afterwards to help inspire others to join and progress within our sector.

Who Can Apply

You may be eligible if you:

• Are early‑career, retraining, or returning to work
• Are seeking support for training or work‑related development
• Face additional barriers, such as:
  • Physical or long‑term health conditions
  • Learning differences or additional educational needs
  • Mental health conditions, including PTSD
  • Being an ex‑service man or woman transitioning into civilian employment
  • Other circumstances that make access to training more difficult

What the Fund Can Support

Grants of up to £1,000 may be used for:

• Training courses
• Specialist tools or equipment
• Practical training support
• Assistive technology or reasonable adjustments related to training or work
• Your first year's membership of the IOR or subscription to the IOR Eng Tech section.

How to Apply

Applications can be made at any time. We keep the process simple and supportive.

You’ll be asked to explain:

• What support you are applying for
• Why it’s needed
• How it will help your training or career development

Successful applicants will be asked to share a short update afterwards, helping us show how the fund makes a difference.

Please see the fund rules here.

Please submit applications or questions to ior@ior.org.uk.