A New Chapter for Children and Young People: TKN Welcomes the National Youth Strategy

Welcoming the National Youth Strategy.

The publication of the National Youth Strategy is an exciting moment for everyone working to support children and young people. At The Kids Network, we welcome this renewed national commitment to ensuring every child has the support, voice and opportunities they need to thrive.

Looking Ahead

We are encouraged to see national recognition of what we see every day: early, consistent, relationship-based support from a trusted adult can change a child’s future. As the Strategy begins to guide policy and investment, The Kids Network will continue to champion the voices and experiences of the children we work with, and we are keen to play an active role in delivering the ambitions set out at national level and to work with more schools and more volunteers to do so.

Children’s Voices at the Centre

A central theme of the National Youth Strategy is the importance of listening to young people and involving them in decisions that shape their lives. This principle reflects our own mission. Supporting children to express themselves confidently, to have their voices heard and to be able to make their own choices, is at the absolute core of what we do and why we exist.

We are proud that our mentoring pairs took part in the survey that helped shape the Strategy. Their ideas, concerns and hopes contributed directly to the national evidence base, ensuring the perspectives of the children we support were represented in the final document.

Building Strong, Trusted Relationships

The Strategy highlights how trusted adult relationships and early support can improve wellbeing, confidence and long-term outcomes. Our volunteer mentors offer exactly this kind of consistent encouragement. By meeting weekly, they help children discover their strengths, build resilience and feel more connected to their communities. We know that these relationships have an impact on children’s wellbeing, their social and emotional skills and their health. We are glad there is a national strategy that recognises this too.  

Championing Community and Connection

Another focus of the Strategy is creating strong, inclusive local communities where young people feel safe and supported. The Kids Network’s place-based model aligns closely with this aim. We work within neighbourhoods, partnering with schools, families and volunteers to build a network of support around every child. Every one of our volunteers commits to giving their time and their support to their local community and has seen the individual impact that their support has.

Could you join us in supporting our children to have brighter, stronger futures?:
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