On today's episode, I am joined by Vanessa Longley, Chief Executive of Chance UK. Chance UK is a leading children's charity dedicated to supporting children aged 5-13 with early intervention and mentoring programs. Since its founding in 1995, Chance UK has focused on supporting children facing adversity by providing individualized support to enhance self-esteem and develop essential life skills. The organization also extends its efforts to families, offers workshops, and advocates for policy change, recently addressing the devastating long-term impact of primary school exclusions.

Vanessa Longley is the Chief Executive of Chance UK, bringing over 25 years of senior leadership experience in healthcare charities, including her previous role as Director of Development at YoungMinds. Vanessa has been instrumental in leading initiatives to address the mental health crisis among young people, with a focus on amplifying youth voices and centering their experiences in advocacy and services. Vanessa is also a qualified bereavement counsellor and Trustee for SignHealth and is deeply committed to the transformative power of early support.

In this conversation, we explore the crucial work of Chance UK in supporting children and families through early intervention. We delve into the current challenges facing children today, including the rise in primary school exclusions, behavioural issues, and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and education. Vanessa Longley shares her insights on the importance of addressing these issues early, fostering a sense of belonging, and building strong, connected communities. We also discuss how Chance UK’s unique approach creates lasting change by providing support at the point of earliest need, preventing future crises, and helping children find hope and connection in an often isolating world.

If you would like to find out more about Chance UK please check the links below:

Website: https://www.chanceuk.com/

Research & Information on exclusions: https://www.chanceuk.com/exclusions

Full report on long term impacts of primary school exclusions:

https://www.chanceuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Too-Young-to-Leave-Behind-full-branded-report_Final.pdf

Donations: https://www.justgiving.com/chanceuk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chance_uk/

Podcast Host - Fenella Hawksley-Walker

Instagram: fenellaphoebe

Music - Composed, performed and produced by Athena Octavia

https://www.athenaoctavia.com

https://www.instagram.com/athenaoctavia

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