Spear uses coaching techniques to get young people from disadvantaged backgrounds into work, training and education. We focus on equipping young people with the confidence, attitudes and the vital skills they need to succeed in long-term employment. Our aim is that each young person will realise their unique qualities and potential and go on to generate a sustainable income.

Since its launch over five years ago, generous donations and funding from charitable trusts has enabled Spear Bethnal Green to work with 470 young people. 78% of those who completed Spear have gone on to enter work or education and were still there a year later.

Demand for Spear is higher than the number of places we can provide, and we are working in an area of extremely high need. Tower Hamlets has the highest levels of child poverty in the UK at 53% and youth unemployment is higher than the rest of London and the UK.

However, Spear Bethnal Green is currently facing a short-term funding shortfall and is at risk of not being able to deliver our next Spear Programme to young people who need it. But with your support, we can continue to support young people in East London like Zach (below) to realise their full potential.

Here is Zach's story: