Supporting Young People

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”Let us create opportunities to call forth young people in our parishes and schools,
in loving and humble service to others”

━ Archbishop John Wilson

Life’s not always easy when you’re growing up — and for many young people today, the challenges can feel overwhelming.
At Caritas Southwark, we’re here to listen, support, and help create spaces where young people feel safe, valued, and encouraged to thrive.

Whether it’s through honest conversations, community activities, or just showing that someone cares, we’re working alongside schools, families and parishes
to make sure young people know they’re not alone — and that there’s hope, help, and a future worth reaching for through Christ.

Why Does It Matter?

Pope Francis’ Teachings:

As Pope Francis reminded us in Christus Vivit, many young people suffer from violence in many forms, from human trafficking, slavery, sexual exploitation and extortion.
Some young people are forced into a life of crime and violence, while others end up in the criminal justice system due to abuse, addiction, or lack of alternatives.

Scripture:

“… encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good” (Titus 2:6-7).
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).
“Anyone who welcomes one little child like this in my name welcomes me” (Matthew 18:5).

What Does Caritas Southwark Do?

In Lewisham and Southwark, we have been supporting various Catholic schools in developing a new programme to help pupils use social media in a positive and thoughtful way. It includes workshops for children and parents, plus conversation cards to spark honest chats at home.

In Orpington, the Good Neighbours to All fund is stepping in where NHS services can’t, offering free counselling sessions to teenagers facing mental health challenges, so they get support before things reach crisis point.

We have also been supporting a partnership between the English Martyrs parish in Walworth and Surrey County Cricket Club. Their weekly events introduce children to cricket who haven’t played before, giving them a chance to make friends and feel part of a caring community.

What Can I Do?

We are called to respond to the needs of young people with care, compassion and a definite sense of service. We are working on creating a bank of resources for each of the below points, so please check again soon or reach out to us if you are looking for more practical advice in the interim.

Pray and Reflect:

Take time to pray for younger people in your parish, community, and family. Reflect on their needs and how you can be a source of support.

Provide Meaningful Support:

Raise awareness about the underlying causes of youth violence and the importance of early intervention by hosting community seminars, workshops or social media campaigns.
Build sustainable networks, partnering with other churches, NGOs and local authorities to create a more coordinated response.
Partner with mental health professionals to provide counselling services, group therapy and support for young people.

What Can I Do?

Create Safe Spaces:

Start a sports or arts club that provides a positive, creative outlet for young people.
Form a parish Youth Club which brings young people together in a safe space and gives them something fun to do.

Install a Knife Bin:

We know knife crime disproportionately affects young people, so giving them a safe, anonymous way to dispose of knives and other dangerous items—helping make our communities safer for everyone