We’re pleased to announce the first round of funding from our newly established Transitions Commission, which has seen us award £247,000 in grants to three London-based charities which are dedicated to helping young people move successfully into education and employment.
This initiative comes at a critical time. Across the UK, nearly one million young people are not in education, employment, or training (NEET)—the highest level in over a decade. In London, youth unemployment stands at 14.6%, significantly higher than other age groups.
Launched earlier this year, our Transitions Commission aims to tackle local challenges in areas of deprivation and economic inactivity. Its mission is to provide targeted funding to organisations supporting young people at risk of falling out of education or work, ensuring they have the skills and confidence to thrive.
The first round of funding
The funding awarded to three organisations will deliver intensive, tailored support to 250 at-risk young people through three innovative programmes:
- Construction Youth Trust – Building Opportunities (£75,000)
A two-year pilot offering early intervention for students in Years 10 and 11. The programme provides mentoring, workplace exposure, and one-to-one coaching to improve transitions into further education for 75 individuals. - Hackney Quest – New Futures HQ (£92,000)
An employability and wellbeing programme for young people aged 14–25 facing barriers such as trauma, poverty, exclusion, and poor mental health. It will support 75 individuals through mentoring, accredited skills, and practical assistance. - Voyage Youth – Horizons Youth Project for the Environment (HyPE) (£80,000)
A job club and renewable energy training programme for 16–21-year-olds at risk of offending or disengagement. The project will provide mentored training, personal development workshops, and work experience for 100 individuals.
Why this work matters
Speaking about the funding, Laura Jane Rawlings MBE, Chair of the Transitions Commission, said:
“Supporting vulnerable young people to successfully transition into training and employment is critical for a positive future. These grants represent a significant first step towards ensuring everyone can realise their potential.”
Junior Smart OBE, Founder of SOS Gangs Project, member of the Transitions Commission and City & Guilds Fellow, added:
“This funding will positively impact communities and help prevent young people from becoming marginalised or excluded.”
The Transitions Commission complements the Foundation’s existing grant-giving schemes which are focused on removing the barriers faced to accessing skills. To find out more about the Transitions Commission, click here. https://cityandguildsfoundation.org/what-we-offer/funding/transitions-commission/