July 2025

As schools break up for summer, worrying statistics about young people's mental wellbeing have hit the headlines again. According to a new NHS study, sharp rises in rates of anxiety, depression and other disorders have led to one in four young people in England having a common mental health condition, with young women more likely to report them than young men. Rates in these conditions in 16- to 24-year-olds have risen by more than a third in a decade.

WLAC's disadvantaged clients often face extra stressors such as food poverty and substandard housing. Another study found that young people in the lowest income bracket are 4.5 times more likely to experience severe mental health problems than those in the highest income bracket.

Our team (pictured below) continue to provide a vital lifeline locally. Last year they offered 4400 therapeutic sessions giving children, young people, and their families a safe space to be heard, to heal, and to find practical strategies to navigate these difficult times. Thank you for standing with us in this essential work.

We hope you enjoy this month's newsletter! 

Wishing you all very best from the WLAC Team. 

FUNDRAISING NEWS

West London Action for Children moved to Gertrude Street in 2010, and we are very much part of the local community, with many of our residential neighbours among our longest serving volunteers. This year the annual street party's raffle proceeds of £3,600. were generously donated to WLAC. Read more here

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Our 14-year-old superstar fundraiser was recognised again for her inspirational fundraising efforts. This time she was commended for placing in the top three in the National Fundraising Awards. Well done Aara! read more.

SPOTLIGHT ON A FUNDRAISER

This month we shine a light on Mel Howes, a teacher at Kew Green Preparatory School, who raised money for WLAC by participating in The Bridge Run, in Oresundsbron, Denmark on Sunday 15 June. Read more

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR TEAM