Downing Street!

14th April 2016

By kind permission of Rt Hon George Osborne MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Global’s Make Some Noise welcomed YLF and friends to a very special reception at 11 Downing Street.

The event celebrated the work of Global’s Make Some Noise, and YLF were invited last night to speak in front of the audience about the vital projects we deliver supporting vulnerable children across Kent.

Global’s Make Some Noise is a national charity which gives a voice to small charities and projects across the UK that struggle to raise awareness. We have been heavily involved in the campaign throughout the past year, including our dressing 'loud' day!

Amongst those in attendance at the exclusive event were Rt Hon John Whittingdale OBE MP, who introduced us, and LBC breakfast presenter Nick Ferrari who interviewed our CEO, Stephen Gray. Two of our young people, Paddy our Apprentice, and Tiff a service user, also told their stories of being in care and how they had been supported by YLF.

Stephen Gray said, “It was a privilege to be invited to Downing Street and a very proud moment to see our young people tell their stories to a busy room. With this generous support YLF can now work with many more children across Kent ensuring we are making a positive difference in their lives.”

During the event, Smooth’s Kate Garraway and Capital’s Marvin Humes presented YLF with a cheque from Global's Make Some Noise and we were surprised to find a much bigger grant than expected!

In fact, the amount was doubled to a massive £40,000!

This grant will help fund the additional positive activities required in 2016 to meet the ever increasing demand the charity faces and with this extra money we will now be able to expand the activities programmes to over 250 children in need in Kent and Medway!!

"It's really nice to hear that people were blown away. It has genuinely been an unforgettable experience!" said Tiff

"Being at Downing Street was an experience I certainly will not forget. I received some really positive feedback from those in the audience - being told by celebrities that my story was inspirational was just amazing!" said Paddy

YLF is incredibly grateful for all the support and recognition Global have given and also very thankful to have had the privilege of a studio tour at Global HQ prior to the event.

In addition to our visit to Downing Street we were invited to tell our story about the experience and surprise cheque to Heart Kent this morning! Stephen and Paddy joined breakfast show presenters James and Becky on air! Check us out...