Lead the Change

A growing body of research shows that many young people feel disconnected, less heard by decision-makers, and increasingly cautious about expressing themselves – especially online, where exposure to polarising or harmful content can be widespread. Combined with financial pressures facing families and communities, these factors can deepen isolation and weaken young people’s sense of belonging. Our commissioned research by More in Common with 13-18 year olds across the UK living in communities experiencing polarisation and division confirmed these insights.

Lead the Change responds to these issues by investing in youth leadership, community connection and opportunity.  The programme will enable youth‑led projects, create safe spaces, strengthen relationships across communities and help young people build skills, including navigating online information and shaping positive narratives.

Lead the Change aims to:

• Strengthen community connection and safety
• Empower young people as leaders, storytellers and changemakers
• Support young people to build digital literacy and challenge harmful narratives
• Increase opportunity through skills and leadership pathways
• Build a national movement for youth‑led connection and change.

UK Community Foundations is supporting the initiative by working with BBC Children in Need to co-ordinate the participation of 17 community foundations, who will deliver the grants to local community groups and also raise further funds.