A Christian youth charity is celebrating its reach to young people following years of funding cuts.
London-based youth charity XLP has offered support to 1,776 young people in nine boroughs, delivering over 2,000 sessions in schools and community centres aimed at breaking the cycles of violence.
The charity provides mentorship, safe spaces, and opportunities for personal development, offering young people the chance to learn new skills and broaden their horizons. The charity has also organised 49 trips to give young people experiences outside of their usual environments.
The charity’s work comes at a time when youth services are struggling, with cuts of nearly £1bn over the past decade. Research shows that young people who participate in XLP's programmes report high levels of trust, safety, and support. However, the charity faces increasing pressure as demand for services rises.
A spokesperson from XLP said: “Young people don’t need tougher laws. They need real opportunities, real support and real belonging. This fight needs all of us. Parents, teachers, charities, policymakers and communities all have a role to play. It starts with listening, creating safe spaces, staying informed and backing youth work. When we invest in young people, we don’t just fight knife crime."
