Why Mentoring Matters
Behind Every Statistic Is a Young Person
New figures highlight the growing mental health pressures facing children and young people, and the importance of having someone in your corner.
New figures published today have revealed that 75,491 children aged 6–17 attended A&E in England with a recorded mental health concern in 2025, a 36% increase since 2019.
Behind that number are 75,491 individual experiences. Young people who may have been struggling, feeling overwhelmed, or simply not knowing where to turn.
The figures are a stark reminder of the growing pressures facing children and young people today.
But they also raise an important question: what can we do to make sure young people have the right support around them?
Sometimes, one person can make a difference
At YLF, we know that a mentor cannot replace professional mental health support, and they aren’t expected to. What a mentor can provide is something much simpler, but incredibly powerful: a consistent, trusted adult who listens.
Someone who shows up.
Someone who doesn’t judge.
Someone who takes the time to get to know them.
Someone who can encourage them to recognise their strengths and believe in what they’re capable of.
For a young person, that relationship can become an important part of their support network.
Could you be that person?
The latest figures show that the need for support is growing. While no single intervention can solve the mental health challenges facing young people, creating strong relationships and supportive communities is something we can all play a part in.
By becoming a volunteer mentor, you could help a young person feel listened to, valued and supported.
You could be the person they look forward to seeing.
The person who encourages them to try something new.
The person who helps them recognise their own potential.
The person who keeps showing up.