This blog explores why 2026 is a critical moment to back young people, especially those facing complex challenges – and how mentoring can make the difference. We’ll share what’s changing, what’s working, and how you can be part of real impact this year.
A New Year. A New Chance to Show Up.
The turn of a new year often brings talk of resolutions, routines, and new beginnings. But for many young people – especially those facing disadvantage, trauma, or instability – January doesn’t feel like a fresh start. It feels like more of the same: uncertainty, overwhelm, and feeling unseen.
At Lexia, we believe that every young person deserves someone who backs them, consistently and wholeheartedly. And if there’s ever been a time to double down on that belief, it’s now.
Why 2026 Matters More Than Ever
The world feels heavy for young people right now. Mental health struggles, school disengagement, youth violence, and family breakdowns are no longer fringe issues – they’re daily realities for far too many.
According to The Children’s Society, 1 in 6 children aged 5–16 are likely to have a mental health problem – a figure that’s steadily rising.
And yet, the right support at the right time changes everything.
A consistent, trusted adult can be the difference between a young person giving up – or giving themselves a chance. That’s what Lexia mentors and tutors offer. Not just advice or check-ins, but real connection. The kind that helps a young person re-imagine who they are and what’s possible for them.
How Mentoring Changes Lives
We’ve seen it again and again: when a young person feels backed, they start to back themselves.
Here’s what that looked like in 2025:
- A 14-year-old excluded from school now re-engaging in learning through mentoring sessions built around their strengths.
- A care-experienced young person finally feeling heard, resulting in fewer placement breakdowns.
- A previously isolated teen building trust, self-worth, and even applying for college.
These aren’t one-offs. They’re outcomes of intentional, consistent, relational support.
What It Means to Back Young People
When we say “back young people,” we’re not talking about grand gestures.
This is what we mean:
- Showing up on the hard days, not just the good ones.
- Listening without judgement.
- Offering structure, encouragement, and belief.
- Helping them build the life skills they need to thrive – not just survive.
And crucially, understanding that progress isn’t always linear. But presence? That always counts.
Lexia’s 2026 Commitment
This year, we’re focused on growing our impact. Here’s how we’re planning to back young people even more in 2026:
- More trained mentors, ready to walk alongside young people facing challenges.
- More personalised pathways, tailored to individual strengths, not just struggles.
- More partnerships with schools, councils, and care services, to reach those who might otherwise slip through the cracks.
Whether it’s a young person at risk of exclusion, in foster care, or struggling with confidence – we want to be there.
How You Can Help in 2026
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to care enough to start.
Here’s how you can support young people this year:
- Partner with Lexia – If you work in education, youth services or local government, let’s talk about how we can support the young people in your care.
- Become a Lexia Mentor – We’ll train and support you every step of the way.
Let’s Make 2026 Count
There’s a young person out there right now who doesn’t believe things can change.
Who’s used to adults giving up – or giving in.
Who’s waiting – without knowing it – for someone to back them.
Let’s make this the year we show them they matter.
