The Journey

London-based children (aged 8-12) are initially referred to us by a professional who is working with them – often a Social Worker, CAMHS practitioner or their school. We prioritise offering support to those with the highest level of need, who may struggle with less specialist provision.

They are initially invited to attend a five-day residential trip. Based in beautiful natural environments and supporting children to try new and adventurous activities, the project helps us to build trust, better understand the child’s needs and assess whether they would benefit from longer term support. 

Following this, we feed back and work with referrers to identify what ongoing support we can offer to the children who are most in need. From returning on future residentials, to accessing one to one mentoring, to joining our Journey Programme, a series of specifically tailored residential projects with the same group of high need young people over an 18-month period. 

 Where children need ongoing support, we work alongside them for as long as they need – often throughout childhood and adolescence. Children move between the various interventions we offer as needs develop or change. Throughout, we aim to work closely with the other organisations in their support network, providing feedback after each project.

When young people become too old to attend our main residential projects, some train with us and are supported to become peer mentors for the younger children through our Young Leaders’ Programme. We also support Young Leaders with personal development opportunities and coaching. At age 18, they are supported to transition into our adult volunteering team.