Youth Unity Mentoring Programs
Empowering Futures: Our Mentoring and Gang Exit Programs
At Youth Unity, we are unwavering in our commitment to the well-being and transformation of young individuals through our impactful mentoring and gang exit programs. These initiatives serve as beacons of hope, offering safe and effective solutions to engage and assist young people in understanding the profound consequences of serious youth violence and disentangling themselves from the grip of harmful gang associations.
Mentoring with Purpose:
Our mentoring programs go beyond guidance; they are a lifeline for those seeking a path to positive change. Dedicated mentors work side by side with young individuals, offering support, encouragement, and a steadfast presence as they navigate the challenges of adolescence and beyond. Through these meaningful connections, we aim to inspire confidence, resilience, and a sense of self-worth.
Gang Exit: Breaking Chains, Building Futures:
Our gang exit program is a testament to our success in creating tangible, life-altering change. We have achieved significant milestones in reintegrating numerous young individuals into more sustainable lifestyle choices. Breaking free from the clutches of harmful gang associations, these individuals find a renewed sense of purpose and direction, paving the way for a brighter and more positive future.
Our Approach: Supportive, Transformative:
Our programs are not just about exiting negative influences; they are about creating comprehensive, holistic transformations. Through personalised mentoring, targeted support, and a community-driven approach, we empower young individuals to break free from cycles of violence and exploitation. We believe in fostering resilience, instilling essential life skills, and building a foundation for success.
At Youth Unity, our mentoring and gang exit programs are more than interventions; they are beacons of hope illuminating the path to a better future. Join us in empowering young individuals to rewrite their stories, break free from the past, and embrace the possibilities of a positive and fulfilling life.
Please see our impact page for our data.
Youth Unity Copyright
Youth centre closures linked to greater risk of young people entering criminal justice system
Whilst youth services have been cut by 77% over more than a decade, violent offences among young people remain at unacceptably high levels warn the National Youth Agency (NYA), in its latest report, The social cost of youth work cuts: Preventing youth offending through youth work, published at the start of Youth Work Week, from 6 -12 November. Despite these startling figures, it costs four times more for a young person to enter the criminal justice system (£200,000 by the age of 16), than it does for them to avoid it through youth work provision (less than £50,000). (1)
The social cost of youth work report provides an analysis of 74 sources of academic literature and research evidence relating to the impact of youth work on young people in contact with the youth justice system. The report shows a clear association between reduced funding for youth provision and an increase in crime rates for some young people.
Despite this, open access youth service expenditure has been disproportionately affected by austerity cuts. Furthermore, young people themselves are crying out for safe spaces with 24% of young respondents to a recent survey by the youth charity OnSide, reporting that they do not have a safe space to go to where they feel they belong. (2)
Whilst convictions have fallen by a third, for every 1,000 children in the population, 4.6 are still in the youth justice system, and their needs are becoming increasingly complex in the wake of the pandemic, as mental health rates soar and amid a cost-of-living crisis. (3)
Meanwhile, youth work saves £500 million on public spending through crime reduction alone and social return on investment research reveals that £1 investment in youth work is estimated to return £3.20 – £6.40 of value. (4)
The report cites the 2020 All-Party Parliamentary Group for Knife Crime focused on the impact of youth centre closures across the country, which revealed that each reduction in the number of youth centres corresponded to an increase in knife crime. This trend is echoed in a PhD study, completed earlier this year, which reviewed London youth centre provision published in 2023 by Carmen Villa-Llera, in the Economics Observatory at the University of Warwick. The research found that crime participation amongst 10-15 year olds increased by 10% in those London boroughs affected most by youth centre closures between 2010-2019. Furthermore, young people in these areas are 12% more likely to be suspended from school since the reduction in youth provision. (5)
Examples of where youth work is having a positive impact on youth crime rates, include the Linx Youth Project, Middlesbrough, which saw a significant reduction in crime amongst young people as a result of youth workers delivering support in the community (detached youth work), with the number of first-time entrants to youth justice decreasing by 79% over a four year period from 2016 to 2020. Furthermore, the project evaluation found that the social impact value for the service is £5.50 for every £1 invested. (6)
Meanwhile a Redthread youth work team working in the Emergency Department at St Mary’s hospital has brought about a 59% reduction in young people’s involvement with violence, and 37% reduction in involvement with crime, as a direct result of their engagement with a youth worker in the hospital. (7)
The launch of The social cost of youth work cuts report from National Youth Agency coincides with their annual Youth Work Week national campaign, which this year is focussing on the added value that youth workers bring to the outcomes of young people through providing their particular support in a range of contexts and professional settings.
Leigh Middleton, Chief Executive, National Youth Agency, said: “A lack of youth work isn’t just failing our young people, it’s also putting a strain on the public purse. Where youth workers are working in partnership with other allied professionals such as prison officer, youth offending teams, healthcare workers and teachers, we know that they are able to use their particular set of skills to capitalise on that ‘reachable moment’ and work with, and for, the young person to help them recognise that they can make positive choices about their future lives.
“The NYA is working to build back the skills and capacity of the sector working closely with our academic and training partners, and through schemes such as the DCMS funded bursary and leveraging the government’s apprenticeship levy to enhance opportunities to attract people to youth work and to retain and upskill those already working in the sector.”
Empowering Futures: Transformative Educational Programs at Limes Farm Primary School – PFCC
In an inspiring initiative aimed at fostering positive development among young people, Youth Unity CIC www.youthunity.org in partnership with Limes Farm Primary School has successfully implemented a comprehensive program that combines transition-based education, one-to-one mentoring, and engaging after-school activities. This innovative approach has also been designed to support students during critical hours between 3pm and 6pm, often referred to as the “lost hours,” when many children are most vulnerable to negative influences.
At the heart of this program is the recognition that the transition from primary to secondary school can be a challenging period for many students. By integrating tailored educational support with dedicated mentoring, Youth Unity CIC has looked to enhance academic achievement but also equipping pupils with the social skills and resilience needed to navigate their formative years. The one-to-one mentoring sessions provide personalised guidance, helping pupils set goals, build confidence, and develop a strong sense of self-worth.
The after-school activities play a crucial role in keeping young people engaged in positive pursuits. From sports and arts to academic clubs and life skills workshops, these activities offer students a constructive outlet for their energy and creativity. Importantly, they also serve as a deterrent against anti-social behaviour (ASB) and criminal exploitation, which can often arise during unstructured time.
There has been reports of a reduction in ASB and criminal exploitation in the area since the program’s inception. By providing a safe and supportive environment, Youth Unity CIC is not only addressing immediate concerns but also laying the groundwork for a brighter future for its students. The skills and experiences gained during these formative years are invaluable as students prepare to transition to secondary school, instilling a sense of responsibility and community engagement that will serve them well throughout their lives.
Parents and guardians have expressed their welcomed the initiative, highlighting the positive changes they have observed in their children. Increased attendance, improved behaviour, and a newfound enthusiasm for learning are just a few of the benefits that have emerged from this holistic approach to education.
As the program continues to evolve, Youth Unity CIC remains committed to fostering a nurturing environment that prioritiSes the well-being for those participants. By combining transition-based education, personalised mentorship, and enriching after-school activities, Youth unity CIC IS not only preparing young people for secondary education but also empowering them to become positive contributors to their community.
Simeon – “in every challenge a young person may face, there lies an opportunity for growth. My role is to help and them see that and work towards a positive future”
Showcasing Our New Artwork at Romford Unity Hub
This week has been truly special at the Romford Unity Hub as we unveiled a new, vibrant piece of art to mark our official opening. The response from the community has been incredible, with people of all ages stopping by to admire the creativity on display.
The new artwork, designed to embody the spirit of unity and community, was painted with great care and attention by the talented artist Cize_One, symbolising our commitment to making the hub a welcoming and safe space for all. This initiative was made possible through our partnership with Havering Council’s Community Safety Partnership. During the process, we received enthusiastic feedback from passersby. Families, young people, and even the local police paused to watch the painting take shape, sharing words of praise and excitement. It was heartening to witness such positivity and support from the local community.
We hope this colourful addition will serve as a beacon, drawing in young people from Romford and beyond. Our vision for the Romford Unity Hub is to create a vibrant environment where young individuals can come to feel safe, seek advice, and enjoy spending time together. The new mural is just the beginning, representing the promise of growth, creativity, and collaboration.
As we continue to develop this space, we invite everyone to come and see the art, explore what the hub has to offer, and join in our journey. The Romford Unity Hub is now open, and we are excited to welcome the community to be part of this shared experience. We are also pleased to announce that we will be holding a soft launch in December, providing an opportunity for more people to visit and celebrate the start of this new chapter with us.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
BEFFTA Award, Best Youth Organisation
We are thrilled to announce that Youth Unity has won the prestigious award for Best Organisation at the BEFFTA Global Awards 2024! The event, held on 26th October as part of the UK’s Black History Month celebrations, was an incredible experience for our team. It was an honour to be recognised among such inspiring global leaders, and the evening was made even more special with our team attending in tuxedos, adding to the glamour of this star-studded event.
The BEFFTA (Black Entertainment Film Fashion Television and Arts) Awards, founded by Her Excellency Professor Pauline Long, celebrates outstanding achievements in the Black and ethnic minority communities. Being part of this prestigious event is a momentous occasion for Youth Unity, and we are immensely proud to have received this recognition for our work.
We would like to extend our gratitude to BEFFTA and everyone involved in making the evening unforgettable. It was a night filled with joy, pride, and a strong sense of community, and we look forward to continuing our mission of making a positive impact on the lives of young people.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to strive for excellence in all that we do!
We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible team at Youth Unity. Their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to supporting young people are the driving force behind our success. Winning the award for Best Organisation is a testament to their hard work and the positive impact they have on the community every day. We are so proud to have such an amazing team, and this recognition would not have been possible without each and every one of them.
Thank you for all that you do!
We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible team at Youth Unity. Their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to supporting young people are the driving force behind our success. Winning the award for Best Organisation is a testament to their hard work and the positive impact they have on the community every day. We are so proud to have such an amazing team, and this recognition would not have been possible without each and every one of them.
Thank you for all that you do!
Finally, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Kristy Prince for putting us forward for this nomination. Her unwavering support from the very start of Youth Unity has always been deeply appreciated, and we are truly thankful for her continued belief in our work.
Understanding the New Laws on Zombie Knives: What You Need to Know
Youth Unity uses informative leaflets, like the one shown, as a key part of our educational outreach both in schools and during detached youth work sessions. These materials are designed to raise awareness about critical issues such as the new laws banning zombie knives and machetes. By presenting clear, factual information, we aim to educate young people on the legal risks and personal dangers associated with carrying these weapons.
During our school visits, youth workers distribute the leaflets and engage students in discussions, helping them understand the broader implications of knife crime, while also promoting safer behavior and responsible decision-making. Similarly, during our detached work in the community, we use these leaflets to reach out to young people directly, offering support, resources, and guidance. By providing accessible information and helplines, we strive to empower youth to make informed, positive choices, contributing to a safer community for all.
This information is intended for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. It aims to provide information on safe knife disposal options and related resources. For legal matters or specific inquiries, please consult a qualified legal professional or the appropriate authorities.
Video produced by Paul McKenzie
Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust, Ambition Project
At Youth Unity CIC, we are dedicated to nurturing the potential of young people and guiding them on their journey to success. As part of our mission, we have partnered with Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust to deliver a comprehensive mentoring program through our acclaimed Ambition Project. This initiative is designed to support personal development, boost confidence, and equip young people with the skills they need to thrive.
The Ambition Project: Supporting Personal Growth
The Ambition Project is at the heart of our mentoring efforts. Developed with evidence-based practices, it offers a structured approach to helping young people build essential life skills, such as resilience, effective communication, and self-management. Our mentors guide participants through personalised sessions that empower them to overcome challenges, set achievable goals, and navigate their personal and professional development paths with confidence.
Continuous Support for Mentors
Youth Unity CIC places great emphasis on the development of our mentors. Each mentor receives independent practice supervision, allowing them to reflect on their experiences, enhance their skills, and maintain their well-being. This approach ensures that mentors are not only equipped to provide high-quality guidance but also grow personally through the process, leading to more impactful mentoring relationships.
Measuring Success and Impact
We believe in the power of accountability and continuous improvement. That’s why we carefully track the progress and outcomes of our mentoring program, monitoring the frequency and quality of interactions between mentors and mentees. Our evaluation process includes both qualitative and quantitative methods, such as surveys, focus groups, and case studies, to capture meaningful insights. This data helps us understand the program’s impact, enabling us to fine-tune our approach and maximise the benefits for participants.
Strengthening Mentorship in the Community
A key component of our work with Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust is ensuring that mentoring extends beyond individual sessions. We are dedicated to building a community where young people feel supported, heard, and empowered. By fostering strong connections and encouraging collaboration, we aim to create an environment where participants can grow not only through the guidance of their mentors but also through their interactions with peers.
Why It Matters
The partnership between Youth Unity CIC and Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust through the Ambition Project is more than just a mentoring program; it’s a commitment to helping young people unlock their potential and achieve their dreams. We focus on developing essential life skills, promoting well-being, and building self-confidence, which are all critical for success in today’s world. Whether it’s preparing for future careers, enhancing social skills, or gaining the confidence to face new challenges, our program offers a solid foundation for lasting growth.
We are proud to collaborate with Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust in this initiative and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of young people. If you’d like to learn more about the Ambition Project or find out how you can get involved, contact us today and be part of a community that’s shaping a brighter future.
Marks Gate in Barking & Dagenham, Levelling Up Program
Exciting New Partnership: Youth Unity and London Borough of Barking & Dagenham Bringing Youth Engagement to Marks Gate!
We are thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration between Youth Unity and the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham, aimed at engaging and empowering young people in the Marks Gate community! Over the next month, our dedicated Youth Unity team will be out and about, delivering detached youth work sessions. These sessions, including interactive street interviews, are designed to connect with local youth, listen to their voices, and build awareness of the exciting new youth centre coming to the area.
