There is so much to enjoy about summer. Like BBQs in the park, sunshine on your skin and the excitement of not knowing where a long summer day might lead.
And right now, with rising costs and a world that can sometimes feel increasingly in conflict, summer can still offer moments of escape, be with people we care about and switch off for a while.
But not everyone can enjoy summer.
For many of the young people supported by St Giles, longer days can also mean loneliness, fear and exploitation.
But with the right support at the right time, this time next summer could look very different.
Be there this summer, so someone can look forward to the next one.
Why your support matters
Many young people affected by violence and exploitation are navigating manipulation, fear, poverty and pressure from people they believe they can trust - while searching for safety, belonging or escape.
Often, exploitation presents itself as protection, belonging, friendship or safety.
“I don’t care” can often mean “I’m scared.”
“Leave me alone” can sometimes mean “I need help.”
St Giles provides trusted relationships, practical support and early intervention for young people facing violence and exploitation - with many of our staff drawing on lived experience to help others feel understood and safer.
That can mean supporting someone in hospital after a violent incident, mentoring young people, helping them move away from exploitation or providing specialist support during difficult periods.
Sometimes, being identified as at risk is only the beginning.
Many young people are not immediately ready to trust services or ask for help. Our lived experience means we understand trust must be earned - and support often begins long before someone feels ready.
Building trust takes time. That is why support like yours matters.
Sometimes the biggest step is simply knowing you do not have to face things alone.
Futures are built over time
The people featured throughout this campaign have been chosen because their stories reflect both the realities many young people are facing today and what becomes possible with the right support at the right time. Their stories are still being written - and with your support, the next chapter can bring safety, confidence and new opportunities.
Like anyone else, young people deserve consistent support as they rebuild their futures. With your support, more young people can continue moving forward and building futures they choose for themselves.
Sydney
“It felt like being thrown into a zombie apocalypse.”
After turning 18, the support Sydney had previously relied on reduced significantly, leaving her trying to navigate adulthood with far less guidance and stability than before.
Louis
From challenging unsafe housing conditions to advocating for young people in crisis, Louis provides the consistent support many young people are missing while facing instability and exploitation.
Jordan
“Even on mornings when he wouldn’t get out of bed, Waleed would somehow get him up and ready.”
After sustained bullying and intimidation left Jordan too afraid to leave the house, St Giles provided support to help him return to school and rebuild his confidence.
Natalie
“Thank you for never giving up on me.”
After years of addiction, trauma and instability, Natalie began rebuilding confidence, education and hope for the future while breaking the cycles of generational trauma that had shaped her life from childhood.
Eve
“It was a lot of relief knowing someone had my back.”
After experiencing homelessness, unsafe living conditions and financial instability, Eve began rebuilding confidence and imagining a more hopeful future.
Our Impact 2025/2026
12,761
new clients were supported
3,045
new clients engaged with our violence & exploitation projects
10,625
of our clients were provided with risk and safety support
8,250
of our clients improved their wellbeing
8,515
new clients engaged with our justice projects
5,543
of our clients were provided with education, training and employment support
8,739
visits were made to our Pantries
5,513
of our clients were provided with finance, benefit and debt support
£10 a month
Could fund access to a trusted adult mentor, keeping a young person supported and safe
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£100 a month
Could support people rebuilding their lives after exploitation, homelessness, addiction or involvement in the criminal justice system through long-term support, advocacy and education opportunities.
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£20 a month
Could provide practical support around unsafe housing, overwhelming bills, emotional well-being, and navigating systems that can feel impossible to face alone.
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Other ways to support us
Put your best foot forward for St Giles! We have a range of challenge events and other fundraising opportunities where you can achieve your goals whilst supporting our work.
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£50 a month
Could fund one-to-one mentoring, hospital-based interventions and specialist support for young people affected by county lines exploitation and serious youth violence.
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Stay in touch
Sign up to receive our monthly email updates where you can find out all the latest news and events going on at St Giles.
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