New research highlights challenges facing young people as Shropshire Community Foundation champions local youth projects

News from our partners: Shropshire Community Foundation

Shropshire Community Foundation (SCF) is highlighting the importance of grassroots youth organisations across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, as new research reveals the challenges facing young people.

The call comes following Youth Work Week, 2 to 8 November, which celebrated the people and places helping young people grow, belong and thrive.

Research published by the National Youth Agency on 3 November found that 54% of youth workers surveyed identified low confidence and self-belief as a significant barrier, while 50% highlighted mental health and wellbeing challenges. Of respondents, 64% identified long-term trusted relationships as youth work’s most distinctive contribution. The findings draw on responses from more than 200 youth work practitioners and organisations across England.

Shropshire Council’s 2024-25 Children and Young People Needs Assessment estimates that around 6,291 children aged 8–16 could have a probable mental disorder, based on national prevalence data from 2023. This is a modelled estimate rather than a count of diagnoses.

Shropshire Community Foundation works with Shropshire Council, Telford & Wrekin Council, local businesses, donors and community organisations to fund practical support, skills development and opportunities for young people.

Its £20,000 DENSO JCE Grant, supported by DENSO Automotive UK Ltd and JCE and Sons Ltd, has awarded funding to five grassroots organisations supporting 16–25-year-olds facing barriers to education, employment and training. Recipients include Crane Quality Counselling, awarded £6,095 to support 25 young people; Fordhall Community Land Initiative, awarded £3,000 for outdoor learning; and the Cavalier Centre, providing equine-assisted learning.

Shropshire Community Foundation also partners with Shropshire Council and Telford and Wrekin Council to support youth leadership, volunteering and trusted adult relationships through the Shropshire Youth Transformation Framework; for example Brightstar Boxing Academy in Shifnal, who were funded to pilot youth leader training.

Joe Lockley and pupils at the Brightstar Boxing Academy. (Image: Shropshire Community Foundation.)

The £15,000 Dodd Group Fund aims to introduce young people, particularly young women and under-represented groups, to opportunities in STEM, engineering and construction.

It has helped organisations such as Landau, who delivered construction and employability workshops for young people aged 16–24, with a particular focus on those facing barriers to employment.

Debbie Evans from Shropshire Community Foundation Luke Hunter from L to R – Emma Johnson from Landau Luke Hunter from Dodd Group and Debbie Evans from Shropshire Community Foundation. (Image: Shropshire Community Foundation.)

Joanna Morris, CEO of Shropshire Community Foundation, said:

“Every young person deserves the chance to thrive, but we know that not everyone has access to the same opportunities or support.

“Across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, there are some fantastic grassroots organisations working hard to change that. They understand the challenges young people face and provide the encouragement, trusted relationships and opportunities that can make such a difference to their confidence and wellbeing.

“We’re proud to work alongside local businesses, donors and community partners to support these organisations. Investing in young people now is one of the most meaningful things we can do for the future of our communities.”

Shropshire Community Foundation is encouraging continued support for local organisations helping young people across the county. Find out more at www.shropshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk

About Shropshire Community Foundation

Shropshire Community Foundation (SCF) is a registered charity connecting Shropshire people, businesses and funders with the local causes that matter most.

Through a trusted network of independent, local experts, SCF manages funds, delivers grant programmes and connect communities across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, helping local giving create lasting, meaningful impact.

NOTES FOR EDITORS 

Website: https://www.shropshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk/

Youth Work Week: 2nd–8th November 2026; National Youth Agency theme: “Where Futures Begin”. https://nya.org.uk/yww26/

National Youth Agency, “Where Futures Begin” youth work report, published 3 November 2026. https://nya.org.uk/where-futures-begin-youth-work-report/ . Percentages reflect the responses of youth work practitioners and organisations, not prevalence among young people.

Shropshire Council, Children and Young People Needs Assessment 2024–25. https://next.shropshire.gov.uk/media/h3xlijzv/school-aged-children-chapter.pdf . The 6,291 figure is an estimate based on national 2023 prevalence and relates to the Shropshire Council area.