Every young person deserves a safe place.
Together, we can make that place the Church.
Every donation made to Urban Saints makes a significant difference towards our mission of equipping youth leaders with everything they need to disciple young people in every context.
When a young person is hurting, where do they turn?
Safeguarding reviews show they are most likely to open up in informal, trusted environments – and that often means a youth group. It’s the youth leader they confide in. The one who listens. The one who shows up.
And when that moment comes, it can be anything: a teenager admitting they’re self-harming. A young person grieving a family loss. A child scared to go home. A disclosure of bullying or risky behaviour – or sometimes, abuse.
This year, our safeguarding team has stood alongside 160 youth group leaders and safeguarding coordinators in over 80 youth groups, offering support and guidance in exactly these kinds of moments.
“The Lord is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in who I trust.” – Psalm 91:2
Week by week we’ve helped leaders respond to concerns ranging from self-harm and suicidal thoughts to bereavement, bullying and risky behaviour – always with the goal of ensuring young people are protected and cared for. Every step matters, because behind each number is a young person who needs to know they are safe.
We long for every environment where young people gather – whether that’s a church, a school, or a community group – to be a place of refuge: where they are welcomed, protected, and heard, and where leaders have the confidence to respond with compassion and care.
But youth leaders can’t carry this alone. Safeguarding systems are complex. The legal boxes need ticking, yes – but when a teenager is sat in front of you, breaking down, leaders need more than paperwork. They need confidence, training, and resources they can trust.
That’s where your gift comes in.
