Story
WLZ helps young people in some of the most unequal areas of London to build the relationships and skills they need to get on track socially, emotionally and academically - empowering them to fulfil their potential and thrive in adulthood.
Despite being home to some of the wealthiest streets in the UK, over 30,000 children in West London live in low-income households. 1 in 5 young people in this community are not getting the support and opportunities they need - and without it they are more likely to face challenges including school exclusion, poor mental health, unemployment and social isolation.
Our brilliant runners are taking on the London Landmarks Half this April to help us raise vital funds and ensure more young people get the support they need to thrive. The money we raise will go towards funding a Link Worker, who is based in school and will guide children through a personalised, 2-year programme based on their needs and goals. It will also contribute to ensuring that each child receives specialist support, such as catch-up literacy, skills-based activities or therapy and are able to attend fun-filled activities during the holidays.
This year, WLZ is supporting over 1,300 young people aged between 3 and 18 years old, in 45 school settings. Next year, we are aiming to reach with 1,700 young people.
Where the money will go:
- £350 - could help to fund trips and activities during the school holidays - such as to the Science Museum or a day of kayaking, providing opportunities for young people to have fun and improve their social skills.
- £400 could fund a term of specialist support, enabling a child to attend activities throughout the term such as confidence-boosting skills sessions, 1:1 catch-up tutoring, or therapeutic and mental health support.
- £600 could contribute towards Link Worker support for 40 children in a school, providing children with a trusted mentor who is there for them in school everyday, and will help them to understand their needs and set aspirational goals.