In 2020, a group of like-minded individuals from East London came together with a shared vision: to support local schools and the children who attended them. As we engaged with the schools, we were confronted with a stark reality - many children were living in poverty, lacking even the most basic necessities. While numerous charities focused on providing toys during the Christmas season, the schools we worked with highlighted a more urgent need: essentials such as clothing and food. It was heart-breaking to learn that some children were attending school with socks on their hands instead of gloves and without proper undergarments. This was a powerful wake-up call for us.

That same year, they launched our first Christmas Gifting Initiative, providing over 400 parcels and food hampers to children in need. These care packages included underwear, socks, hats, gloves, and scarves - items that would bring warmth and dignity to those who needed them most. This was the beginning of something much larger, and from this initial effort, Start Young UK was born.

As they continued to support these children, it became clear that their families were also in desperate need of assistance. Many were struggling financially, and the impact of COVID-19 only exacerbated their difficulties. Our mission evolved: we expanded our efforts to include not just the children, but their families as well. We prioritised those living in poverty, understanding that long-term solutions were necessary to truly make a difference. The challenges we encountered were greater than we had anticipated, but they only strengthened our resolve to offer sustained support and meaningful change.

I have recently become a Board of Trustee for Start Young UK and are looking to further our partnership with them to support and empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in the world of work.

Your donation to support them as they navigate their lives would be life changing for them. Thank you for your support!