GMYN Theory Of Change
Our Mission:
Every young person, whatever their background, feels confident, connected, and capable of great things.
The Problem:
- Too many grow up without networks, confidence or opportunity.
- Trauma, loneliness, stigma and poor mental health cut across every system.
- Care-experienced, separated, and disabled & neurodivergent young people are over-represented in hardship but under-represented in decision-making.
- Traditional services speak for them, not with them.
- Others fall through the cracks of education, employment and training.
Our Approach:
How we work – values driven
Compassion
Trauma-informed, relational practice.
Courage
Collaboration not competition.
Learning
Data-driven reflection and evidence.
Creativity
Co-design with young people.
Fun
Strength-based and voluntary engagement.
GMYN exists so young people are seen, heard, and shaping what comes next.
Our Programmes:
Where change happens
Work Readiness (WREP)
Preparing young people furthest from work for life and employment.
Care Experienced (CEYP)
Supporting young people through transitions and into interdependence.
Youth Voice
Embedding lived experience and leadership.
Disability & Neurodiversity (DND)
Building belonging and influence for disabled and neurodivergent young people.
Business Support
The backbone team ensuring people, data and finance drive impact.
If we…
- Build trusted, trauma-aware relationships.
- Deliver creative, youth-led opportunities.
- Connect young people with peers, employers and partners.
- Amplify their voices in decision-making.
- Share insight and learning across systems.
Then young people…
- Feel safe, valued and hopeful.
- Grow in confidence and skills.
- Build positive networks.
- Engage in community and work.
- Are enabled to influence change around them.
So that…
Greater Manchester becomes a place where all…
YoungPeopleCan
…thrive, shape and influence.
Our Outcomes:
Improved Wellbeing
Feeling safe, supported and hopeful.
Strengthened Connections
Building trusted relationships and networks.
Developed Skills
Gaining practical, life and work skills.
Increased confidence
Believing in their potential.
Promote Community Engagement
Taking part and giving back.
Shaping Systems
Using lived experience to improve policy and practice.
