Focusing on the 1 million young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET), The Lord Mayor’s Appeal utilises the Lord Mayor's unique convening power to help young Londoners develop the knowledge, confidence, skills and experience they need to obtain meaningful employment.

The impact of young people being NEET is very damaging, both for the individuals affected and for the country's economic prosperity. While London experiences slightly lower levels of youth unemployment than some other regions, the challenge remains acute, especially for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and care-experienced young people. 

The Lord Mayor's Appeal identifies and supports a portfolio of charities tackling different aspects of the NEET challenge to work in partnership with.

West Ham United Foundation – Driving positive change through sports, education and community support

The Foundry is West Ham United Foundation’s new community hub in Beckton, East London. It delivers over 35 programmes across education, employment, health, youth engagement and football, reaching over 60,000 people of all ages and abilities each year. With spaces for fitness, wellbeing, entrepreneurship and a community kitchen offering free meals, The Foundry is a place of opportunity, building stronger communities and inspiring better futures.

Combined Cadet Force Association – Supporting schools to delivery inspiring, skills-building experiences for young people

A youth organisation working with 12-18 year-olds, building confidence, leadership, resilience and real-world skills through adventure and practical training. Continued investment will support expansion to over 20 schools across the City, giving thousands more young people the chance to fulfil their potential.

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