Ignite Life
Ignite Life is a youth charity that has been in operation since 2019. We provide frontline, tailored services to disadvantaged young people and families impacted by poverty, adversity, mental health challenges, food poverty, and more. We strive to deliver lasting impact and build resilience among young people through our three core services: youth 1:1 mentoring, mental health services (1:1 counselling, family counselling, talking therapy and trauma-informed parenting workshops) and food provision. We are dedicated to tackling inequality and ensuring that no disadvantaged young person slips through the net.
Project Overview
Our mental health services support around 100 people per year with vital mental health care. Whether a young person is in crisis and isolated, preferring an initial non-clinical intervention where a support worker can provide a safe space for them to talk, or seeking tools to manage future challenges with a professional counsellor, our goal remains the same: to offer comprehensive support that empowers them to navigate life's complexities with resilience and confidence.
Our food support services support around 88 children per week, and we deliver around 450 meals per week. Around 18-20 families receive delivered food parcels per week.
Why are we crowdfunding?
In 2020, one in six children aged 5 to 16 were likely to experience a mental health issue. Moreover, in Bristol alone, over one third of children live in deprivation, with children living in poverty facing a higher risk of mental health problems.
Due to rising costs, food prices have increased by 19% and there has been a 40% increase in the use of food banks. Ignite’s food bank has seen this pressure, with more people every week relying on our service to feed their families. In January 2023, the Food Foundation estimated that 24% of households with children were living in food insecurity.
Check out the live projects we're supporting
Sydenham Garden
Sydenham Garden provides therapeutic gardening and and arts and crafts groups for people with mental health difficulties and dementia - in the beautiful setting of a nature reserve and community food growing site. It is a source of peace and joy, a real sanctuary when people are going through tough times.
Hounds for Heros
We’re a small passionate team dedicated to supporting those who have served or are serving our country, who have become disabled through injury or illness. Our experienced trainers, volunteers, and staff work together to provide life-changing assistance dogs that offer not only physical support but emotional strength and independence.
