SUPPORTING POSITIVE FUTURES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Fears about the future have become part of daily life for more than 1 in 3 young people across the UK, according to our new research with Barnardo’s.

We believe every young person deserves better. That’s why Co-op is working with Barnardo’s to bring communities together and support young people.

23%

of young people in the UK have started the day without a meal.*

41%

of young people in the UK have worried about their mental wellbeing in the last 6 months.*

59%

of young people in the UK are not optimistic about future opportunities in life.*

How we're making a difference

Alongside in-person support, we’re helping young people online too — sharing practical advice, information and reassurance across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube — so young people can find the right support when they need it.

Co-op and Barnardo's: creating positive futures

What does support look like to a young person? By lifting the load with services and information, we're helping thousands of young people.

Watch on YouTube

We’re bringing food organisations together to support young people

Food partnerships bring together local groups, charities and businesses to create fairer, healthier local food systems. Read our Deeper Roots, Stronger Futures report to see how these initiatives especially support young people in need.

Read our report on food partnerships

Raising awareness for young people

Our double-decker trucks, created with logistics partner Buffaload, deliver fresh food while raising awareness of our work with Barnardo’s to support young people across the UK.

Learn how we’re supporting young people

How we’re changing lives

Justin attends a Co-op and Barnardo’s service, where he’s found a safe space to talk, get support and feel part of a community. He knows not all young people have somewhere to turn — which is why he’s passionate about the partnership helping others build positive futures too.

After losing several family members in a single year, Lilli found stability and support through a Barnardo’s and Co-op programme. With a safe place to talk, learn and connect, she celebrated her GCSE results and now looking ahead to sixth form — and hopes one day to help young people just like her.

How we fund and inform change

Together, Co-op suppliers have raised over £500,000 for our partnership, such as Cadbury, Muller, Haagen Dazs and more. So, treat yourselves to one of the products knowing your purchase is supporting positive futures for young people.

One of the largest studies of its kind, ‘Young People: Fairer Futures’, looking at aspirations of over 5,000 10–25-year-olds across the UK, shows young people face a very uncertain future.

Donate online, and in-store

A small donation can make a big difference — helping give young people the support, confidence and opportunities they deserve.

At Co-op, we’ve raised £6m for Barnardo's to support the positive futures of 750,000 young people across the UK. We’re now closing in on our £7m target.

You can make a contribution next time you’re in a Co-op store, or donate online now.

Donate to Barnardo’s now