As 2025 begins, we are delighted to share an exciting development that promises to create meaningful change for young people. Mind of the Student and YourStance are proud to announce that we have successfully secured £227,664 in funding over the next five years. This transformative grant, provided by The National Lottery Community Fund, will enable a collaborative programme to support young people in Havering, Barking and Dagenham, Lambeth, and Croydon.
This initiative addresses a critical issue: in 2023, 33% of young people who participated in YourStance workshops reported experiencing traumatic incidents such as stabbings, shootings, or serious assaults. Alarmingly, many of these young people had not accessed the support services they needed.
At the same time, research shows a growing demand for mental health services among young people in the UK. According to NHS Digital, mental health needs among young people have significantly increased, while Healthwatch highlights that many young people hesitate to seek help.
Our joint programme will provide young people with:
- Vital life-saving skills for those vulnerable to youth violence.
- Comprehensive mental health support and resources.
- Practical coping strategies to manage immediate and ongoing challenges.
- Tools to address the long-term mental health impacts of trauma, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
By combining expertise in youth engagement and mental health support, this partnership offers a holistic and forward-thinking approach to addressing the needs of young people affected by violence.
The programme is designed not only to provide immediate support but also to foster long-term resilience, equipping participants with the tools to build brighter, healthier futures.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to The National Lottery Community Fund. Your support makes this vital work possible and ensures that young people facing significant challenges can access the help they need.
This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration in tackling some of the most pressing issues affecting young people today. We look forward to launching this programme in the next few months and to sharing the positive impact it will have in the years to come.
Together, we are transforming futures and empowering young people to overcome adversity and thrive.
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