About Us

The Young Lives Foundation (YLF) is an award winning children’s charity in the South East of England with expertise in Advocacy, Mentoring, Befriending and Activity Programmes

Our Vision

We want all young people to live in communities where they are heard, are safe and supported; with opportunities to thrive.

We aim to support young people to thrive through highly effective and accessible programmes where they:

• are given a voice, are heard and empowered
• are supported by consistent adults through times of challenge and change
• have opportunities and resources to be happy and thrive

Our Impact

34,000

voluntary hours given per year

3,500

vulnerable people supported each year

94%

of people feel listened to and supported

£300k

of fundraised income every year

Our Support

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We support those who are:

Looked after children / care leavers

Children in need / on the edge of care

Young offenders / at risk of offending

NEET young people / disengaged in education

Vulnerable adults

Unaccompanied asylum-seeking children

Families in need of support

Children who have been adopted

Our Values

Our staff and volunteers are committed and passionate, and strive to do the best they can for every young person who needs our support.

We demonstrate the values of our organisation in every aspect of our role and work hard to meet the increasing demand for our support. We are ambitious about achieving positive outcomes and making a difference to young people's lives every day.

Passion

To love our job – be helpful, friendly and gain an understanding from the individuals we want to make a difference to

Principles

To be there and be respectful – have good manners, listen and stay in touch with young people and each other

Integrity

To be trustworthy and dependable – have an open mind and be approachable, show kindness and remain consistent

Innovation

To be a great team player – show creativity and share ideas but also get actively involved and be sociable

Our Aims

Plugging the Gap

Building, researching and responding to areas of need whilst mobilising services

Diverse Income

Continued development of diverse income streams

New Skills

Skills and expertise to support YLF’s growth

Technology

Investment into technology and digital platforms

Accommodation

Secure and suitable accommodation for our future

Marketing

Development of our brand and marketing resources

Competencies

Introduction of key competencies with a pay and reward structure

Our Commitment To Safeguarding

The Young Lives Foundation is committed to the safeguarding and well-being of children and vulnerable adults both in society as a whole and in our own operations and activities.

Visit our Safeguarding webpage for further information and policies that demonstrates our commitment to high quality and best practice across our services.

What People Say

“You are all such a pleasure to work with and we enjoyed every moment helping you. Thank you for all you do within Kent. I wish you all the best for the future.” Nim, Kent Reliance

“What a wonderful group of people and a fantastic charity. It been an absolute honour helping out. Wishing you many fabulous times to come. Here’s to YLF!” Lisa

“Feel like part of the family, before I worked here, and after! YLF have helped me personally and professionally.” Paddy

What Next?

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Volunteer for Us

If you support our vision, spare some time to volunteer

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Donate

Donations are crucial to the delivery of our services. Donate today!

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Support Our Cause

Fundraisers, supporters and partners are vital – can you help?