Four major UK charity funders are linking up with the aim of improving their support for children and young people.

The National Lottery Community Fund, Youth Endowment Fund, BBC Children in Need and Sport England are to work together through the Serious Change Funders Partnership to improve the way they fund measures that prevent “children from being harmed by or drawn into violence”.

This will include consulting young people and children to listen to their experiences.

The partnership also aims to set shared priorities, align funding with evidence and use their “collective voice and influence” to “drive series, lasting change.

As the Serious Change Funders Partnership develops it is hoped more funders will join.

“For too many young people, growing up feeling unsafe has become a reality,” said NLCF chief executive David Knott.

“As the UK’s largest community funder, we are committed to supporting work that places young people at its heart to keep them safe and support them to thrive.

“We are proud to be joining as a founding partner of this ambitious initiative to share learning and increase impact, giving children and young people the best chances in life.”

Youth Endowment fund chief executive Jon Yates added: “By coming together and focusing on what works to prevent violence, we can make that hope more real. We’re proud to be part of this partnership and excited about the real, lasting change it can bring.”

Meanwhile, Sport England executive director of policy and integrity Jeanette Bain-Burnett said: “Access to sport and physical activity can be life-changing for young people, helping them build confidence, connect with others and feel a sense of belonging.

“For too many, especially in underserved communities, fractures and inequalities remain.

“Sport England is proud to be a founding partner of the Serious Change Funders Partnership, working with like-minded organisations on a shared ambition to bring about positive change for more young people across England.”

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