A youth charity formed over 20 years ago is exploring a proposed merger with welfare charity Catch22 after facing funding challenges.
Redthread, which provides youth work in hospitals to young people affected by violence and exploitation, has been experiencing “major financial challenges in recent times, due to the current external funding landscape”.
The charity recorded an income of £3.66m for the financial year ending 31 March 2023, while its expenditure was £3.88m.
It said the proposed merger was designed to ensure Redthread’s services can both stabilise and grow.
The two charities already work together on the Social Switch Project, which helps protect young people from online harms.
Redthread to retain brand
Redthread, which employs 70 people according to its latest accounts, said it would continue to maintain its existing brand and identity after the merger.
Its chief executive, Lucie Russell, said Catch22’s values are closely aligned with Redthread and that the proposal to merge adds “value and stability to our services and our ability to evolve and grow them”.
“Redthread and Catch22 are absolutely committed to ensuring frontline services continue with minimal disruption while the transition is taking place and beyond,” she said.
“This partnership is the right thing for Redthread. It means we can enhance our work at a time when young people need us more than ever.
“With a new government and its positive strategic proposals to prevent and reduce violence affecting children and young people, we will work together to capitalise on these opportunities, and play a key part in making a meaningful difference together.”
‘Using our collective strength’
Catch22 recorded an income of £53.5m and expenditure of £56.9m in the year ending 31 August 2023 and employed 1,120 people.
Naomi Hulston, CEO of Catch22, said: “We’ve worked closely with Redthread for a long time and know how well respected they are within the sector and how impactful – and much needed – their services are.
“Levels of youth violence continue to rise and there are many young people who are reliant on the vital support that Redthread provides.
“We’re excited about Redthread becoming part of Catch22 and using our collective strength to support even more vulnerable children and young people.
“The motivation for merging is to make sure this vital work doesn’t stop; and it’s that motivation that will ensure it’s a success.”
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