Mayor announces new funding for London youth mentors

The Mayor of London has announced a further £10 million to support mentoring organisations in London.

Sadiq Khan is aiming to provide a mentor for 100,000 young Londoners most in need of support.

Similar schemes have seen mentoring support for more than 50,000 young Londoners so far

The support is for those young Londoners vulnerable to exploitation or being drawn into violence.

This includes children and young people who are not in mainstream education, those who have been excluded from school or college, as well as young people impacted by exploitation, domestic violence, living in poverty, and those involved in the care system.

The Mayor said: “Mentors are also absolutely crucial in supporting those most vulnerable to exploitation being drawn into violence.

"This investment will play an important part in our efforts to tackle violence in the capital as we work to build a fairer, more equal city for all Londoners.”

Zara Chaudhury, Year 9 pupil at City Heights Academy, said: “Having a mentor has been incredibly beneficial to me as they provide invaluable support and guidance.

“Whenever I face problems or challenges, I can always turn to my mentor for help and advice. Knowing that I have someone available to assist me has had a significant positive impact on my mental health.

“Previously, I felt alone and struggled to fit in, but having a mentor has provided me with a safe and nurturing environment where I can freely express myself.

“Through my mentorship experience, I have gained a newfound self-confidence. I have learned how to navigate social media issues and have gained clarity about my goals and aspirations in life.

“The relationship I share with my mentor is a mutual and reciprocal one. It feels like a secure bubble where I can openly discuss my thoughts and concerns, knowing that my mentor will actively listen and provide guidance.”