Achieving our Vision
Our Theory of Change isn’t just a graphic: it is our north star when we ask what we are here to do. It’s what shapes how we want to help change the UK, being ambitious in vision but also specific about our role in that work.
What is core to how we achieve our mission?
This Theory of Change was updated as part of our 2023-2028 strategy work with our staff team, beneficiary feedback and stakeholders, building on our model created with Pro-Bono Economics. It recognises:
- It’s about more than a set of programmes. We need to influence making this work accessible to more young people and schools as a standard. Our charity has a role in shaping the system so this is the norm, not the exception for more young people from under-served, high-need backgrounds.
- How we work. The Young Citizens team is made up of educationalists, programme designers and experienced partnership architects and experts from the worlds of law, economics, media and more. They make it interactive, relevant and skills-building.
- Young people can’t do it alone. It emphasises how we achieve impact not only for young people but our educators, volunteers and institutions by engaging them in our services. Institutions need to change and be closer to our communities if we want a stronger democracy.
- We can’t do it alone. We are one piece in a complex system of support for young people and democratic influence, where education is just the start. We specialise in working with institutions and companies to see that ‘citizenship’ is placed in the issues of today, connecting young people to those in power. We also partner with like-missioned organisations so they can continue their journey as active citizens.
Suggested next steps:
- Look to our programmes to become involved and motivate pupils to learn how to become active citizens.
- See how our mission gives a foundation for our goals in our Theory of Change.
- Read about the importance of citizenship education.