Funding Supports Youth Projects on Mental Health and Inclusion

New initiative targets challenges faced by young people in local communities

Leeds Community Foundation, in partnership with HUDL, The Youth Association, and the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation, has invested £90,000 in seven community organisations through the Involving Young People Fund. The programme aims to support projects addressing key issues affecting young people, including mental health and wellbeing, homelessness, and LGBTQIA+ inclusion.

Organisations receiving funding

• Central HEaRt
• Empath Theatre CIC
• GASPED
• Learnest CIC
• Music Local
• Soundproofbox
• A1 Football Factory

Funded activities and focus areas

The projects supported by the fund include a range of activities designed to help young people develop resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Examples of these activities are:

• Arts therapy, group work, mentoring, and holistic therapies aimed at building resilience and self-acceptance among young people.
• Writing narrative poems themed around myths and legends inspired by local artefacts, which supports wellbeing, creativity, and professional skills.
• Developing a youth involvement board and structured youth programme to create a safe environment for LGBTQ+ young people.

Place-led approach and pilot programme

This pilot of the Involving Young People Fund has focused on testing a new way of working with young people by concentrating on specific areas, including Wakefield and Barnsley. The partnership’s approach emphasises youth-led change and decision-making that engages deeply with local communities to ensure their unique needs and perspectives are prioritised.

Further information about the impact of the programme will be shared once the funded projects are completed.

Source: Leeds Community Foundation