“The levels of engagement FYA achieve consistently – both from YP and from influencers and local stakeholders – are really impressive, as are the beneficiary demographics reported.”
Matt Robinson, Funding Manager at City Bridge Foundation
“This peer support group was a great example of coproduction because not only did the young people co-design and co-deliver the peer support group but they filmed the process and compiled a list of recommendations for other CAMHS services across the country. Mental health support services are under unprecedented demand and peer support is a very effective way to provide extra support to young people transitioning from children to adult services.”
Rachel James, Clinical Services Director at Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust
“Being a Champion has changed my life. I used to think I was useless and worthless...It was the start of a new me and I would say my dream came true literally...I have been able to do so many things as part of this project. I have gained so much confidence and this is where I belong. The team are also amazing and my kids are part of everything with me instead of having to find childcare or not being able to bring them. That is so important for so many of us as parents to be able to be part of it as a family.”
B, Local Artist, Community Champion
“I am so impressed by the work of Young Guardians and Community Champions and excited by what they might do next. This partnership between FYA, the residents as champions and us from the Youth Service has been inspiring and a testament to all involved, but also illustrates how important partnership work is in order to serve residents best. The projects have not only highlighted issues we can work on, but highlighted how much incredible work is being done by so many organisations and services already too.”
Eugene Griffin, Head of Camden Youth Service
“The Peer Mentoring programme and subsequent trip went down really well with our 11 Wellbeing Club members. FYA did a really good job and our students learnt and had fun at the same time 😊! We would love to use your programmes again. Peer Mentoring is something we can do again for a different group of students as of the next academic year and we are interested in Peer Education too, thank you FYA!”
Grigorios Kirmizoglou, SEMH Mentor, Parliament Hill School
“Working in partnership with Fitzrovia Youth in Action has seen our project exceed previous successes, both in the numbers of young people we have been able to engage, and the quality of provision we have been able to deliver. With 17 young people engaged in the peer education project that we invited them to facilitate, we’re now keen to explore how we can continue to work in partnership with FYA in the future as their passion and commitment for developing young people clearly shines through.”
Andy Forse, Project Co-ordinator: Young People for Inclusion (Elfrida Rathbourne)
“Our partnership with Fitzrovia Youth in Action has been nothing short of amazing! The time and effort from all the staff at FYA has reflected in the outstanding work that the students have produced. Students who have started at FYA have lacked confidence, ambition and enthusiasm, however, after they return with a new outlook on their future. The growth in their personal skills and personality is remarkable and it makes my role so worthwhile. I look forward to continuing our partnership with Fitzrovia Youth in Action to provide opportunities to as many students as possible.”
Olivia Rogers, Westminster Kingsway College
“I am so grateful for all the work FYA have done with our students who were going through a really difficult time adjusting to life with lockdowns and not being at school consistently. I would like all students in this year group to get the chance to work with FYA. I love the youth-led approach and the staff are so friendly and work well with the classes.”
Candice Clark, LSU Deputy Headteacher (Pastoral)
“Working with FYA is an easy, co-operative, exciting and growing partnership, and Ellie makes it all doable and feel possible, for both partner organisations and participants."
Daniel Pitt, Creative Director and Chief Executive, Old Diorama Arts Centre

