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We’re raising the alarm.   
Are you with us?

We’re raising the alarm.   Are you with us?

Why Save Teenhood?

It can be a difficult journey, from childhood to adulthood. But it’s a truly formative time. 

One that should be defined by experimentation – and a healthy dose of fun. 

But too many of Britain’s teens are in crisis. Let down by failing systems, they’re missing trusted role models, trapped in poverty, and facing abuse, on and offline. It’s no wonder they’re the unhappiest in Europe. 

That’s why we want to make sure every teen has a safe place to go, and an expert to talk to, whenever they need it. We want to open more drop-in centres, provide  lasting support – and champion long-term change with and for teens. 

Because at The Children’s Society, we believe in setting teenagers up to thrive. That they all deserve the chance to enjoy this brilliantly unique life stage. 

Because the truth is, if the future’s better for teens, it’s better for all of us. 

We’re raising the alarm to Save Teenhood. 

Are you with us? 

4 million
children are living in poverty
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Donate now

Our most popular gift — £10 a month could help fund weekly sessions between a support worker and a teen in crisis.

How will we collectively Save Teenhood? 

By providing the support young people urgently need, by challenging those with the power to change things, and by putting young people’s voices at the heart of every decision, we can Save Teenhood. 

Teens are already raising their voices. We’re already listening and taking action. Now, with more people standing alongside them, we can turn that action into lasting change 

Together, we can create a future where every young person feels heard, supported, and able to enjoy their teenhood.

mabel quote

Mabel quote
- Mabel, young person
Sam walking next to the trees

“I think if I didn’t get that support, I wouldn’t be here.” “I think if I didn’t get that support, I wouldn’t be here.”

– Sam

In their own words

Teenhood today is full of perils and young people are facing things they should never have to.  

“It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, it can be hell.” - Rachel, young person

By sharing their stories, they help us to understand what it’s really like for young people – and what we need to do to make sure every teen has the chance to grow up safe, happy, and healthy. 

 

One in five young people in every classroom in England struggle with their mental health.

Being bullied was torture.

- Sam, young person

One in five young people in every classroom in England struggle with their mental health.

If you’re one of them, you’re not alone. Support is available if you need help with or advice with something.

Youth Experience Survey Report

This particular research aims to highlight the sense of overwhelm, constant demand, and underlying isolation. It aims to provide credible, evidence-based insights to strengthen emotional storytelling and help drive engagement.

Read the report
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