Burgess Hill charity responds to national report on young people's wellbeing

The Children's Society's Good Childhood Report 2026, published this week, finds that young people's wellbeing is still in decline, with about one in ten reporting low wellbeing. Its focus this year is belonging, and it shows that having a trusted adult outside the family really matters. Young people with low wellbeing are more than three times likely to say they have no trusted adult to turn to (21.7% compared to 6.1%).

Inkpots Youth Mentoring, a registered charity based in Burgess Hill, took part in the research. The charity provides one-to-one and group mentoring to young people age 10 - 18 across mid Sussex.

The report found that young people feel that what makes an adult trusted includes listening without judgement, being honest and holding clear boundaries. This closely reflects the approach set out in the charity's own Mentoring Manifesto which has also been published this week.

Gill Pawley Founder and CEO of Inkpots Youth Mentoring said: 'We were delighted to take part in the research for the Good Childhood Report as it always shines an important light on young people's needs. We firmly believe in the importance of really listening to young people and respecting their views.'

The report also calls for long-term support for youth provision and Inkpots Youth Mentoring is working to develop lasting, reliable mentoring for local young people.