Roots & Wings

Roots & Wings supports young people who lack positive role models and are at risk of criminal exploitation, as well as those who are experiencing violent crime or live in fear of violent crime on a daily basis.

The programme has been running annually since 2020 and has seen 28 young people graduate from the scheme, earning a total of 72 AQA qualifications between them in the process. The programme is supported by Mandela8 patron, LFC and England international, Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The programme includes restorative justice practices and aims to find enduring solutions to prevent young people from becoming involved in crime and violence and supports them to recognise consequences; understand cause and effect; reduce naivety; and increase their resilience and strength to 'not get involved'.

Roots and Wings also supports cultural change around the acceptability of carrying weapons and succumbing to peer pressure.

"The young people on the programme live in areas of high deprivation with high levels of crime and are frequently disengaged from school and at risk of permanent exclusion. We are delighted to see our programme supported by businesses and organisations that are part of the infrastructure of our communities. Working together to develop cohesive solutions is critical to the opportunities for our young people and sustainable communities."
- Sonia Bassey, Chair of Mandela8

If you are interested or want to refer someone, please contact mandela8.org.uk