A Greenwich dad is running the London marathon this month to help raise awareness of the struggling youth charity sector.
Stanley Watts, 48, will take on the famous 26-mile challenge on April 27 to support UK Youth, after experiencing its work first-hand with his son.
Data from the charity shows funding for young people’s services has decreased by more than 50% in 10 years, leading to the closure of nearly half of youth clubs nationally.
UK Youth support more than 9,000 organisations delivering outdoor learning, job skills, and mental health support for young people, but say the sector is struggling with funding, recruitment, and demand.
Stanley was inspired to support the charity after visiting Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre in the New Forest with his son and seeing how the outdoor activities were accessible for all children.
He said the centre had opportunities for all kids and something for everyone.
The charity run funded-outdoor-learning residentials for those with special educational needs, disabilities or barriers to participation, allowing them to learn whilst connecting with the natural environment.
Stanley said training is going well but added: “There is a natural anxiety when you know what is approaching.”
He said that his son is his biggest supporter and that he is spurred on by the community of regulars at his hair salon in Greenwich.
Oscar Bingham, researcher at UK Youth, said: “We’re totally in awe of Stanley and our amazing London Marathon runners, the training, dedication and the fundraising effort is incredible.
“Every pound raised is helping to unlock youth work, and is making a huge difference to the lives of young people today and long into the future.”
Through work like its Summer Jobs initiative, a six-week course for 16 to 20-year-olds at risk of violence, UK Youth help young people gain skills and confidence in the workplace with partners like Burger King and KFC.
Stark funding cuts have led to reduced services and support for young people as organisations struggle to maintain staff levels and program quality.
More than a quarter of children in the UK live in poverty, with UNICEF delivering parcels to UK families for the first time during the 2020 pandemic.
Oscar added that support from events like the London Marathon is crucial for sustaining programs that provide essential skills and opportunities for young people.
Image credit to Miguel A Amutio on Unsplash
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