Includem has used funds from its reserves to donate to other charities who are helping young people

A youth charity has dipped into its own pockets to help support other organisations.

Includem has decided to use some funds from its reserves to help other organisations working with young people who are struggling in the current coronavirus crisis.

The charity has donated £5,000 to 10 voluntary and charitable groups around the country to help see them through the Covid-19 emergency, making sure they can continue to deliver essential services to vulnerable young people.

Includem chief executive, Martin Dorchester said: “Many charitable groups who rely on fundraising activates for their main income are really struggling at the moment due to the restrictions placed on people’s movements. This does not mean the vital services they provide to some of the most at risk young people are no longer needed, in many cases due to the current insecure employment situation these services are required more than ever.”

Includem works with young people across the country who are experiencing challenges dealing with day-to-day living. It offers tailored intensive support to build confidence and social skills to help them progress towards better lives.

Dorchester added: “These are organisations that we work alongside every day and realise how much value they can add giving a young person the best possible start and helping to improve their life chances. We are determined to help them through this current situation if we possibly can.”

Organisations being helped include foodbanks, a charity that gives clothes to families who need them, an organisation supporting youth within the Muslim community, bereavement and autism support groups, SAY Women, who help provide accommodation to vulnerable young women and PEEK who provide educational support for young people.

Michaela Collins, PEEK chief executive, said: “We’d like to say hank you so much to Includem for this generous donation. It is warmly welcomed in such an uncertain time. It will go towards making healthy meals for some of our city’s most vulnerable children, young people and families.”

Includem works with around 300 young people offering one-to-one support to help turn their lives around.

“These are tough times for charities and I would urge people not to forget the often vital work that goes on behind the scenes and consider helping out with their time or a donation if they can,” added Dorchester.