1625ip celebrates 10 years

1625ip CEO, Dom Wood and Cllr Asher-Craig at 1625 Independent People celebration. 

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1625 Independent People celebrates a decade of achievement

 
Needless to say, the charity sector has taken a few hits over the years, especially since the 2008 economic crisis, but rising strong out of this time is charity, 1625 Independent People (1625ip).  A youth homelessness charity, created from a merger in 2009, has helped countless young people build a better and hopeful future.  In September, they celebrated 10 years as 1625 Independent People.

Dom Wood, CEO, said, “as we prepared for celebrating ten years since a merger and becoming 1625 Independent People, it was amazing to look back and see what has been achieved.  We set aims of improving the quality and range of services as well as being financially stronger and more resilient to the external pressures.  With a 68% growth in turnover, a doubling of the staff team and a tripling in number of services the 10 years have been a massive success which is down to the staff, Board, partnerships and especially the young people who drive our services forward.” 

With over 100 supporters and leaders turning out for the celebration, it was a genuine reflection of the power of partnership.  1625ip values those past and present, who have enabled them to deliver the vital, life-saving services.  From leaders of local authorities in the South West, to funders like the National Lottery Community Fund to businesses such as Triodos, who hosted the event, the cross-sector effort has touched many young lives. 

The best part of the evening was hearing from young people, who told the audience why they needed 1625ip, how their lives transformed and what they are planning to do in the future.  One young man is leaving for university this year to study finance.  A 1625ip staff member said of the young man, “he has emerged to be an incredibly thoughtful and articulate person, with absolute focus, the charity is sure he will achieve all that he puts his mind to.  It is a testament to the young people’s bravery as they push through extremely difficult and traumatic experiences, stepping into their own sense of purpose.” 

The charity has supported thousands of young people over the years, now reaching over 2,500 young people per year.  The celebration was a fantastic opportunity to motivate individuals to support the cause. In the UK last year, 103,000 young people asked for help with homelessness or potential homelessness. While that number has grown, 1625ip’s determination to tackle youth homelessness is significantly greater.  The charity is resolved to see generations of young people, thriving, confident and hopeful, contributing to and leading our communities.