One-in-four young people in London have been victims of violence†.
Knife crime and gang violence remain one of the most pressing issues in London today.
Facing high inequality and a lack of real support, some of the most disadvantaged young people feel they have no choice but to resort to gangs and violent activity.
Almost half of young people committing violent acts have themselves been a victim of violence†.
SW!TCH Lives works with young people at risk of, or currently involved in, criminal behaviour to help them find a better path.
Through our award-winning VIP Mentoring framework, young people are supported by our Youth Development Workers to improve their self-esteem and confidence, address negative behaviours, and develop their own positive aspirations for the future.
One-to-one mentoring
Weekly sessions give a young person the opportunity to build a trusting relationship with their mentor while they gain confidence, self-determination, and agency over their future.
Working in partnership
Our team works closely with statutory bodies and professionals to identify at-risk young people, respond to developing issues, and ensure a truly joined-up approach to mentoring
Fostering agents of change
Young people with leadership potential are invited to become SW!TCH Ambassadors, where they'll develop these skills in order to drive further change in their own community.
Co-designed solutions
Each young person helps to develop their own learning plan, and their unique situations and needs are examined to help shape the course of their mentoring to ensure the best possible outcome.
What is VIP Mentoring?
VIP Mentoring helps young people to find their vision, their identity and their purpose.
Young people consistently tell us that they want more support, particularly when it comes to questions of mental health and the social and emotional pressures they face.
What’s often missing for young people are trusted adults—someone that can be relied upon when facing challenges in their lives. But trusted relationships that encourage positive self-esteem, resilience, and growth take time to flourish. This simple truth often gets overlooked when systems and professionals are facing increasing pressure to deliver results.
VIP Mentoring empowers young people to discover a sense of vision for their lives, to understand their identity and be comfortable in their own skin while providing positive activities within safe boundaries that help them to unpack their purpose.
VIP Mentoring was recognised by the CYP Now Awards in 2009 and the Philip Lawrence Awards in 2010.
Want to refer a young person?
Know someone in need of help?
Whether you’re a parent, school, or other organisations, simply fill out our referral form to get a young person help.
Want to join in?
Looking for something fun to do?
Check out our full timetable of activities to see when our SW!TCH team are out and about in your area!
The Reclaimed Project
This is our year‑long programme to support girls and young women affected by gangs, violence, or exploitation.
We're creating safe and welcoming local spaces where you can connect, be heard, and support each other.
This is about reclaiming your voice and your future. Because you're more than what you've been through.
You’ll be able to take part in weekly sesssions as part of a small group, where you can:
Just be yourself
Talk if you like, or just listen if you want
Take part in a range of fun and engaging activities
Build your confidence and be supported
You’ll also have the opportunity to share any ideas and opinions you might have and help us change how services work for girls and young women like you!
Make a referral to the Reclaimed Project
Please note that there are only limited places available.
Interested in bringing SW!TCH Lives to your area?
We’re working closely with local probation and youth justice services to reach young people at their most vulnerable. With many being victims of violence themselves, it’s important that we show them a way to break the cycle and choose a better path in life.
Jenna-Marie Singh
Head of Young People's Services, LifeLine Projects
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