The Island Refocuses to Meet Growing Needs of Young People in York

The Island is refocusing its priorities to respond to the growing demand for its services across the city. Since 2007, The Island’s team of volunteer mentors has supported more than 3,000 young people, helping them to thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. Recent data shows that out of approximately 25,000 young people in York aged 8–18, around 3,500 do not have a trusted adult in their lives. Additionally, one in six children live with mental health or addiction challenges within their family, one in nine experience poverty, and one in twelve are referred to mental health services each year. (Source: 2024–2025 Director of Public Health Annual Report)

With demand for mentoring services predicted to increase, The Island has undertaken a comprehensive review of its service provision. As part of this review, the Board of Trustees has concluded that the community is best served by investing in The Island’s core mentoring services rather than a new building at this time. Planning permission was granted in December 2024 for a new Children’s Centre at New Lane, Huntington, but with significantly increased build and running costs, the charity will focus its resources on expanding its existing programs to reach more young people in need.

All enquiries regarding the land should be addressed to Elliot Newby of Stephenson’s Estate Agency, elliot.newby@stephensons4property.co.uk

Paul Devlin, Trustee and Interim Chief Executive Officer said: "Both the economic environment and the funding landscape have changed fundamentally in the last 6 years, and since Covid the needs of young people have also evolved. As a charity dedicated to mentoring, it is vital that we focus on our core activities. While a new Children’s Centre remains a long-term aspiration for the city, our immediate priority is helping young people who need us most. Every charity has faced challenges in recent years, and now more than ever, young people require our support."

The Island continues to work closely with the City of York Council and other partners, in line with the Young People’s Plan 2024–2027, to ensure children and young people have the building blocks to feel safe and supported. Founded in 2006 by former Youth Service worker Bob Purrington, The Island has empowered thousands of young people across York. The charity is always seeking new volunteer mentors to help meet the rising demand.

Laurence Beardmore, Chair of Trustees added: "We want to continue helping young people overcome challenges. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer mentor and making a real difference, please get in touch."

For more information or to volunteer, please visit our mentoring pages.