London Youth works to improve the lives of young people and challenges them to become the best they can. London Youth was founded in 1887 because the individual youth organisations of the day knew that they were stronger and could achieve more for young people by working together. Since then, much has changed for young Londoners, but the need to work together is more pressing than ever.

London Youth’s vision is that all young Londoners grow up healthy, able to express themselves, navigate a fulfilling career and make a positive contribution in their communities. They look to work with all young people, focusing particularly on those who wouldn’t otherwise have access to the kind of opportunities they offer.

Last year, London Youth worked with over 27,000 young people through programmes including 2,500 on Talent Match London, their flagship employability programme for those aged 18-24, that have been out of employment, education and training for at least 12 months and not receiving support from statutory services.

London Youth Case Studies

Jody

After leaving school at sixteen, Jody had no idea of what career he wanted to pursue. He was unemployed for a year before he eventually began working at a fast food chain. After a year Jody felt unsatisfied with his role and left his job. It was then that he signed up to London Youth’s employability programme, Talent Match London, and got involved with their Youth Board.

“Working to secure employment and work experience opportunities for other young people, taught me so many skills. Doing presentations at the business breakfasts helped develop my communication skills and gave me the confidence to speak to senior business managers. I also learnt how to work in a professional environment”.

During one business breakfast Jody was approached by an employer who recognised his excellent communication skills and recommended he consider a career in recruitment. Jody took on her advice and has since managed to carve out a long-term career in recruitment. Speaking on his new career Jody said,

“Before Talent Match London I never imagined I would be doing anything worthwhile, now I’m in a rewarding job with prospects”.