New Initiative Supports Young People in Leeds to Strengthen Communities

Collaborative funding aims to address social division and empower youth leadership

A new three-year programme worth £3.4 million has been launched to support young people in Leeds in building stronger, more connected communities. The initiative, called Lead the Change, is a partnership between several UK funders including BBC Children in Need, Co-op Foundation, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Henry Smith Foundation, Joseph Levy Foundation, Paul Hamlyn Foundation, Postcode Justice Trust, UK Community Foundations, and The National Lottery Community Fund.

Background and research findings

Research indicates that young people are among those most affected by social fragmentation and polarisation in the UK. Studies have found that many young people feel disconnected from each other and decision makers, and are increasingly cautious about expressing their views, particularly online where polarising and harmful content is common. Additional research commissioned by the Lead the Change funders, involving young people from communities affected by unrest, highlighted feelings of insecurity, lack of welcoming social spaces, and the ongoing pressures of the cost-of-living crisis impacting their wellbeing and opportunities.

These challenges contribute to isolation and increased time spent socialising online, often exposing young people to harmful narratives. The evidence points to an urgent need for investment in youth spaces, trusted facilitation, and genuine youth participation to help repair and strengthen social cohesion.

Programme aims and delivery in Leeds

Lead the Change focuses on two main areas: addressing systemic issues that cause division in communities and promoting youth social action. The programme aims to amplify youth voices and nurture young community leaders by providing safe spaces for young people to share experiences, build positive relationships, and lead community projects.

Leeds Community Foundation will deliver the programme locally, supporting organisations working with young people through workshops, mentoring, and community-led initiatives. Participants will develop skills to challenge misinformation and harmful narratives both in their daily lives and on social media.

Power will be shifted to young people through a designated youth panel, which will have a significant role in governance and decision making, including making final funding recommendations for board approval.

Statements from key partners

• Fozia Irfan OBE, Interim Chief Officer for Children and Families at BBC Children in Need, said: “It is vital that young people are empowered to lead conversations around the future of their communities and the divisions they face. This initiative provides tools and platforms to support young people to address these issues, investing not only in their future but in a more inclusive and compassionate society.”
• Steph Taylor, Chief Executive of Leeds Community Foundation, stated: “This funder collaboration marks an important national investment in youth leadership and community strength. It recognises the vital role young people have in promoting understanding and building strong relationships. For Leeds, this means local support alongside being part of a broader national movement.”

For more information on the Lead the Change fund, visit Doing Good Leeds.