The Layberry Foundation is a Charitable Trust, created to improve the life chances and wellbeing of disadvantaged young people. This includes Care leavers, but not exclusively so. We welcome anyone who has had challenging times and those who may be struggling with mental health issues, as well as those who feel isolated and lonely.
Whilst we aim to deliver high quality mentoring programmes for young people, working with them where they are and supporting them as they make the transition to adulthood, we also work with those already in the community who are disadvantaged or struggling to survive independently.
We believe passionately in the potential of all young people and are here to work alongside them, by establishing trusting relationships that will make a positive difference in their lives.
Our aim is to equip young people with the skills and confidence to transition successfully to adulthood, and to achieve their goals. In this, we do not exclude those who have already tried their hand at independence, and who have found it difficult to find their place in society.
Support can include helping young people find suitable work experience or training, and on to employment, setting up a new home, managing money, helping them to recognise the importance of looking after their mental health, and maybe most importantly, providing a friendly ear.
Our vision is to help disadvantaged young people make sense of their world and to set high aspirations for themselves, and build their confidence to thrive in all areas of their lives.
Our Vision
To preserve and harness the unique atmosphere and surroundings of Wood Farm for the benefit of future generations, particularly disadvantaged young people.
Our Mission
To provide life changing opportunities and experiences for people who have had difficulties in their lives, in particular, those who have left or are leaving public care.
Working with other Organisations
As our work begins, we are reaching out to Local Authorities, particularly those close to the Sevenoaks area, and to young people’s charitable and voluntary organisations, as well as schools. Our aim is to work in partnership, and to augment and support the good work that they do. Please contact the Project Co-ordinator, Keith at keith.beasley@thelayberryfoundation.org or Charity and Fundraising Manager, Julia Farrell, at julia.farrell@thelayberryfoundation.org for more information, and to discuss how we can work together going forward.
The Future
We are excited to be looking to the future for the charity. The Layberry Foundation is based on in 52-acres of stunning Kentish Countryside, which inlcludes a beautiful ancient bluebell wood, home to wild deer, badgers and rare bird species.
We are making plans to use this wonderful environment to offer young people opportunities for work experience and social and life skills training. Very importantly, we want to offer an environment that helps young people from disadvantaged backgrounds reconnect with the natural world – working with animals, growing organic produce and learning about sustainability. Wood Farm is a very special place indeed and it offers tranquillity and a sense of belonging to all who become part of our growth and development.
