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James Hensman
Chief Executive Officer

by James HensmanTeam Members
James is the Chief Operating Officer at Youth Unity CIC, with over 20 years of experience and a proven track record in strategic planning and operations. As a key leader within the organisation, he drives growth and ensures that Youth Unity remains focused on its mission: achieving better outcomes for young people.
 
He oversees a wide and diverse portfolio of early intervention and social care services, ensuring that delivery remains responsive to emerging vulnerabilities. His approach prioritises partnership working, system change, and innovation, enabling Youth Unity to adapt to the challenges faced by communities today.
James is committed to improving the lives of vulnerable groups and brings exceptional skill in building purposeful, multi-agency collaborations. These partnerships strengthen Youth Unity’s ability to respond effectively to issues such as criminal exploitation, county lines, and organised crime.
 
Driven by a passion for quality improvement, James works across diverse communities to support young people at risk of involvement in gangs or serious youth violence. His leadership consistently enhances service delivery and long-term outcomes.
 
Before joining Youth Unity, James worked with county police forces and community safety partnerships, where he developed frontline training, best practice strategies, and intervention services tackling gangs, county lines, and organised crime. He also has extensive experience in commissioning, integrated service design, and advising safeguarding partnerships, education trusts, and regional NHS trusts.
 
Earlier in his career, James achieved a BA (Hons) degree in Visual Communications from the Kent Institute of Art, specialising in graphic design and photography. He continues to apply this creative background within Youth Unity’s project environment, engaging young people through innovative and artistic approaches.
 
Shirley Jackson

Shirley Jackson
Managing Director & Founder

by Shirley JacksonTeam Members

Shirley Jackson is the Founder and Managing Director of Youth Unity, where she turns good ideas into well-run, high-impact programmes. With a background in corporate finance and 25+ years in project management, marketing and branding, she leads end-to-end delivery, scoping need, designing projects, securing partners, setting budgets and overseeing, risk and compliance. Clear KPIs, monitoring and evaluation, and transparent reporting sit at the core of her approach so every project is accountable and effective.

Shirley’s path began with creative platforms successful online radio stations and major community events that drew people in and gave them a voice. As a single mum of two (now grown), she understands the pressures families face and builds support that is practical, inclusive and dignified. Her focus is consistent: empower young people, back families, and create the systems that let staff deliver their best work.

She also oversees Youth Unity’s brand and creative strategy, ensuring the organisation communicates with clarity, authenticity and pride in the communities it serves.

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Racing to School
collaborating with Youth Unity #horseracing

by British Racing SchoolNew Projects

Racing to School is pleased to be collaborating with Youth Unity to engage young people in hard-to-reach communities, offering our free interactive and healthy outdoor Schools’ Education Programme to those pupils and their schools that might otherwise face financial barriers to accessing outdoor learning opportunities. Using racing’s venues to provide this unique learning experience, our fully inclusive and accessible activity days support the learning of a diverse young people through access to the assets and opportunities of horseracing.

Through this collaboration we aspire to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people across Great Britain; sparking a lightbulb moment and what we hope will be a lifelong interest in the sport. 

Racing to School is an education charity that aims to inspire young minds through the provision of free, interactive, and healthy outdoor educational events for schools, staged at a variety of racing venues. They achieved another record year in 2023, delivering 410 events across the country and engaging a diverse group of over 16,200 young people.

The charity works with young people with special educational needs and over one third of their output is targeted to engage those from inner city, rural and deprived areas. The staff have a range of industry backgrounds including former jockeys who have retrained to develop their second careers, and their experience is invaluable as the charity introduces horseracing as an accessible sport to young people.

Magnifier focuses on the word case study. Education concept.

Case Study 9

by Case Study

Case Study 9 was referred to Youth Unity by Family Solutions due to her prolonged absence from formal education, spanning over a year. The referral was prompted by concerns regarding Case Study 9’s diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), coupled with underlying emotional and behavioral challenges. Additionally, Case Study 9’s recent diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and past history of substance misuse underscored the complexities of her situation.

Case Study 9 and her older sister, CS9 entered the care system at ages 3 and 4, respectively, owing to parental substance misuse. Initially fostered, they later transitioned under the guardianship of family members following a legal process culminating in a Special Guardianship Order (SGO). Notably, a younger brother is also under care, albeit by a separate foster family, while two older siblings stem from their mother’s previous relationship.

Case Study 9: Initial contact was established with Case Study 9 and her family in early November. Accompanied by a colleague who facilitated the introduction, I commenced building a constructive rapport with Case Study 9. I initiated our engagement by elucidating the scope of our mentorship and youth work relationship, seeking clarity on her expectations. Case Study 9 articulated her desire for candid communication, the opportunity to discuss her concerns, and the inclusion of enjoyable activities within our interaction. Subsequently, I meticulously outlined the protocols governing safeguarding and confidentiality, ensuring her comprehensive understanding. Furthermore, I assured Case Study 9 that any necessary disclosures to the safeguarding lead would occur transparently, in accordance with Article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

In pursuit of understanding Case Study 9’s circumstances, I prompted her to share insights into her current situation and personal background. This dialogue facilitated a nuanced comprehension of her needs, enabling tailored support strategies. Notably, Case Study 9 disclosed recent diagnoses of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which profoundly impacted her emotional state. Expressing feelings of anger, hurt, and fear, she expressed concerns regarding the perceived limitations imposed by these diagnoses.

During interactions with Case Study 9’s guardians, who graciously welcomed our engagement, I gleaned invaluable contextual information. Conversations revealed the challenging circumstances precipitating Case Study 9’s placement under their care. Notably, the guardians articulated the adverse effects of the recent diagnoses on Case Study 9’s well-being and familial dynamics. Demonstrating unwavering dedication, the guardians actively participate in meetings concerning Case Study 9, alongside other family members. Their commitment reflects a profound sense of responsibility and love, underscoring the demanding nature of their caregiving role.

Interventions

During our weekly meetings, held either at her residence, in a café, or during beach walks, Case Study 9 (CS9) expressed interest in art, prompting her attendance at local art classes. Despite missing formal education for over a year due to past bullying and attacks, CS9 aspires to return to mainstream schooling, with a particular goal of attending her school prom. Moreover, she harbors ambitions of pursuing a career in fashion design, necessitating a reintegration into mainstream education to undertake her GCSEs.

CS9’s familial background reveals a history of substance misuse, leading to her and her older sister’s placement in foster care before being granted a Special Guardianship Order under their guardians’ care. Despite familial support, CS9’s journey is marked by challenges, including her recent diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), which exacerbates her impulsivity and susceptibility to substance misuse.

Furthermore, CS9 grapples with complex emotional issues, including rejection sensitivity dysphoria, a symptom of ADHD, and recent suicidal ideation, requiring constant monitoring and support from her guardians. As CS9 navigates through therapy and educational support, it’s imperative to maintain open communication, uphold safeguarding protocols, and foster a sense of hope and resilience.

Moving forward, the focus remains on providing a safe and nurturing environment for CS9’s growth, emphasising the importance of self-esteem building, managing impulsive behaviours, and fostering healthy relationships. Additionally, acknowledging the need for levity and diversion from CS9’s challenges, a person-centered approach ensures her autonomy in steering conversations while addressing underlying familial tensions and rivalries constructively.

In summary, the journey with CS9 underscores the delicate balance between addressing immediate concerns and nurturing long-term aspirations. With unwavering dedication and a commitment to holistic support, the aim is to guide CS9 towards a future marked by resilience, self-discovery, and fulfillment.

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Gratitude to the Jack Petchey Foundation: Empowering Young Lives in Limes Farm, Epping

by Epping Forest District CouncilNew Projects

A special acknowledgment to the Jack Petchey Foundation for their invaluable support, which has significantly enriched the experiences of young people in our Limes Farm project.

Their generous funding has played a role in enhancing our capabilities, allowing us to acquire essential equipment that amplifies the impact of our sessions.

The Jack Petchey Foundation’s commitment to empowering youth aligns seamlessly with our mission. With their support, we’ve been able to create an environment where young individuals not only discover their potential but are also equipped with the resources they need to thrive. The acquisition of new equipment has not only bolstered our sessions but has also provided a tangible representation of the Foundation’s dedication to investing in the future of our community.

Together, we stride towards a future where every young person in Limes Farm can realise their full potential and become leaders of positive change.

The Jack Petchey Foundation was set up to inspire and motivate young people across London and Essex by providing exciting projects and programmes for them to get involved in. We also recognise the outstanding achievements of today’s young people by awarding them for their hard work and positive impact in their community.

Awards to date

Recognition Award which enabled us to purchase more equipment, also help to cover the costs of food and refreshments at each session.

Leader Award, which was given to Simeon Dennis in recognition of his passion for helping the young people every week.

Our Young Person Award which was given to Tilly Austin, who decided to use the money to have a Halloween party and also to purchase more games.

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Stories Like Ours
films that can reach young people

by Film ProductionNew Projects

These films act as more than just stories; they are powerful tools that speak directly to the hearts of young individuals, providing a visual backdrop to the empowering words shared

We are thrilled to announce that we now have access to three compelling intervention short films, aptly titled “Stories Like Ours.” These stories where given to us by Tom Watt, and the full endorsement goes to The ACED Project CIC.

These films serve as a powerful tool in our mission to connect with and inspire the young minds we engage with, particularly during our detached youth work sessions.

In these sessions, we focus on reaching out to hard-to-reach young individuals within our communities. “Stories Like Ours” aims to reignite a sense of connection and understanding among these youth, providing a platform for them to see reflections of their own experiences and challenges.

Moreover, these remarkable short films have been curated to play a crucial role in our efforts to educate young people about making informed life choices. The snippets you find here are just a glimpse into the impactful narratives that await.

If you’re intrigued and wish to delve deeper into the stories, we invite you to reach out. Consider this an open invitation to connect, and perhaps we can arrange a workshop to explore these films in a more immersive and engaging setting.

Let’s embark on a journey of storytelling, empathy, and positive change together. 🌟

Impact Report 2023 to 2024

Impact Report 2023

by IMPACT

Our Impact since 2022/23

Youth Unity CIC – Impact Report 2023-2024 Summary

At Youth Unity CIC, we are committed to empowering young people, fostering safer communities, and providing essential early intervention and support services. Over the past year, our impact has grown significantly, reaching thousands of young people across London, Essex, and Kent.

🔹 Our Impact in 2023-2024

✅ Over 5,700 young people engaged through mentoring, outreach, and training
✅ 200+ detached youth work sessions, providing frontline support in the community
✅ 250+ workshops delivered, covering trauma, gang awareness, and youth resilience
✅ 85% of young people supported through mentoring have returned to education or employment
✅ Expansion of our workforce by 200%, strengthening our ability to support vulnerable youth

Through a combination of mentoring, outreach, education, creative media, and community engagement, we are breaking cycles of exploitation, crime, and disengagement, helping young people take control of their futures.

🔹 Key Programs & Achievements

  • Mentoring & Gang Exit Support – Offering intensive 1:1 guidance for at-risk youth
  • Detached Outreach & Community Safety – Providing mobile intervention services in high-risk areas
  • School-Based Workshops & Training – Educating young people on violence prevention, mental health, and life skills
  • Sports, Music, & Media Initiatives – Using creative and physical outlets to build confidence and purpose
  • Youth Leadership & Ambassador Programs – Empowering young people to become changemakers in their communities

Our work is built on collaboration with statutory agencies, educators, and community organisations, ensuring a holistic approach to youth support and crime prevention.

🔹 Looking Forward

  • Expanding early intervention efforts, with a focus on young women and SEND youth
  • Launching new community hubs in Essex & Kent, providing safe spaces for young people
  • Growing our digital outreach, amplifying youth voices through podcasting and creative media
  • Strengthening trauma-informed and contextual safeguarding approaches, ensuring young people receive tailored, meaningful support

As we continue to evolve, our mission remains clear—to Prevent, Prepare, and Protect young people, providing them with the tools, opportunities, and support they need to succeed.

Brian Lewis

Brian Lewis (ACMA, MBA)
Chief Financial Officer

by Team Members

Brian Lewis is a vital member of the senior management team at Youth Unity. With a distinguished career in financial management, Brian brings strategic insight and expertise to the organisation’s financial operations. His commitment to excellence and passion for the organisation’s mission drive his efforts to optimise financial resources and support the organisation’s objectives.

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Insights from Our Team at Youth Unity

by New Projects

At Youth Unity, we take immense pride in the collaborative efforts of our dedicated team members. Recognising the importance of their perspectives and experiences, we recently conducted an in-house confidential survey to directly inquire about their feelings and sentiments towards working with us.

The responses we received have been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a strong sense of camaraderie, shared commitment, and mutual respect within our team. It is heartening to see that our collective efforts are not only making a positive impact on the community but are also fostering a supportive and thriving work environment for our team members.

These survey results reinforce our belief in the strength of unity and collaboration, and we remain committed to nurturing and celebrating the valuable contributions of each team member at Youth Unity.

Meet the team here

How strongly do you agree or disagree with the following statements around career opportunities?

Please provide your feedback on company leadership.

How strongly do you agree or disagree with the following statements?

Please provide your feedback on communication within the organisation.

Any other feedback you want to provide? good or bad!

"Hello. Being fairly new l am not yet sure about training and opportunities so it is hard to assess with regards to training and opportunities. I am sure they are good though. "
"Since working with Youth Unity there has been lots of positives. I've learned a great deal from my role & had the scope to evolve, within any organisation there needs to be development & increase so the organisation runs effectively. Training is the most effective practice to make any organisation better."
"Training opportunities for staff is important. "
"A fantastic CIC Caring and knows YPs needs "
"Great to part of a growing company "
"Just to continue doing what you’re doing! Everyone in the team are doing an amazing job "
"Simeon - He is always so positive and keeps spirits high! "
Just for fun ... nominate your favorite person is within the organisation and why?
"Shirley & James. They offer support very differently but I feel it's in it's own way from a good place."
Just for fun ... nominate your favorite person is within the organisation and why?
"Nick, he's a great fountain of wisdom and he works wonders with kids. I really enjoy our conversations while on outreach."
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The British Racing School Induction Week Nov 2023

by British Racing SchoolNew Projects

The British Racing School
Introduction to Racing Residential Course

The British Racing School

An Introduction to Racing, Residential Course

In collaboration with The British Racing School and the Gerald Leigh Charitable Trust, we are thrilled to share the remarkable impact of this most recent project. A week-long induction to the school provided a unique opportunity for a group of young individuals.

The response from our network was truly heartening, with over 85 applicants vying for a placement. Despite the overwhelming interest, only 6 participants could be accommodated due to limited availability. In navigating this challenge, we strategically selected young people by working closely BSix College.

This immersive experience, made possible through the generous support of the Gerald Leigh Charitable Trust, brought together individuals from diverse parts of London, representing varied socioeconomic backgrounds but bound by a shared passion for horses. We believe in the power of this transformative experience to significantly contribute to the long-term self-confidence and personal growth of these young individuals.

At the heart of this project is the spirit of collaboration and partnership, demonstrating that together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of young people. As we continue to build on these meaningful partnerships, we are excited about the positive ripple effect that our collective efforts will have on the future of these aspiring individuals.

Forging Paths to Employment: Empowering Futures

Beyond the enriching induction week, this project is dedicated to opening pathways to meaningful employment for the participants. During this transformative week, individuals are introduced to various elements crucial for their personal and professional development. The journey doesn’t end here; it extends into courses ranging from 6 to 18 weeks, each offering not just education but tangible opportunities with guaranteed work placements.

The commitment is to provide more than just a glimpse into the possibilities; it’s about equipping these young individuals with the skills and experiences that pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career. The diverse courses on offer ensure that participants can choose a path that aligns with their interests and aspirations, setting them on a trajectory toward long-term success.

By combining education with hands-on work placements, we aim to bridge the gap between learning and practical application, preparing participants for the challenges and opportunities they’ll encounter in the professional world. This project is more than an introduction—it’s a comprehensive program designed to empower individuals with the tools they need to thrive in the workforce.

As we continue this journey together, we are excited about the impact our collective efforts will have on the lives of those we serve. Youth Unity works to create a future where every individual has the opportunity to not only dream but also to turn those dreams into tangible, sustainable careers.

The course attendees who are from inner city London

“Horse riding is very expensive; I’ve always loved horses but due to expenses have never been able to do lessons. I also love animals in general and knowing how to care for them in my opinion should be a standard for all humans”. Jehan aged 17

“I have always wanted to become a jockey” 

“I volunteered at a city farm for around 4 years in which I was an assistant to a riding instructor for horse riding lessons for children with disabilities and special needs. As well as this I partook in riding lessons of my own and would care for the horses such as feeding and mucking out.”

“I would never be able to get this opportunity to ride horses and I really do desire to ride a horse as they are one of my favourite animals”.

“I spent a lot of time with horses when I was in Ukraine, but now I lack that experience. I love spending time with horses by riding and taking care of them. It has been my passion since I was very little”.

“I like animals and would love to learn to ride a horse, but never had the chance”.

This immersive journey aims to not only broaden their horizons but to provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the equine world.

With a visit to the National Stud Farm, the young minds were treated to a detailed guided tour, unraveling the intricate tapestry of horse breeding and care. The experience wasn’t just a visit; it was a hands-on exploration of the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to the well-being and development of these magnificent creatures.

The expedition continued at the British Horse Racing Museum, where the group was immersed in a wealth of knowledge. A meticulous guide led them through not only the museum’s exhibits but also illuminated the intricacies of how horses are meticulously cared for in the stables. From the history of horse racing to the day-to-day life of these majestic animals, every facet was unveiled with precision and passion.