At Countrystyle Recycling, community support goes beyond waste management and recycling, it’s about making a lasting impact. As part of our ongoing commitment to the communities in Kent and Medway, Countrystyle is proud to back the award-winning charity Young Lives Foundation (YLF). This partnership not only involves financial contributions but also hands-on involvement through mentoring and befriending programs.
Supporting Vulnerable Youth Through Mentorship
YLF, an independent charity based in Maidstone, is dedicated to changing the lives of young people in care and vulnerable adults. Through advocacy, mentoring, befriending, and activity programs, YLF helps hundreds of children across the county. Now, thanks to Countrystyle’s support, 20 young people will gain access to crucial mentoring and befriending services from YLF’s 300-strong volunteer team.
Countrystyle’s Chief Executive, Martin Heathcote, was introduced to YLF by his colleague, Tony Godden, who has been actively involved with the charity. During a visit to YLF, Martin met one of the charity’s trustees, Patrick Powell (Paddy), whose own life was transformed by YLF’s work. Paddy had been in the care system since a young age and received support from YLF, which helped shape his journey.
From YLF Beneficiary to Countrystyle Success Story
Paddy’s story is a true testament to the life-changing power of YLF. His resilience and determination caught the attention of Martin, who encouraged him to reach out if he ever wanted a job. Paddy took that advice to heart, self-funding his HGV2 licence to increase his qualifications. Six months later, he called Martin and successfully applied for a job at Countrystyle.
Today, Paddy is one of Countrystyle’s top drivers, demonstrating the company’s can-do approach. He has also become a mentor to other young people supported by YLF, offering his personal insights to help guide foster carers and social workers. Paddy’s journey from a YLF-supported child to a successful professional and trustee is one of the many ways Countrystyle and YLF are working together to break cycles and transform lives.
A Deeper Partnership: More Than Financial Support
While Countrystyle’s funding of YLF’s mentoring programs is a key element of our support, the company’s involvement goes deeper. Several staff members have volunteered as mentors, following Martin’s belief that providing time and personal support is just as valuable as financial assistance.
“I firmly believe spending time with the children to prevent them taking the wrong road is important for the individual and society,” Martin said. “It’s more than simply funding the mentoring, it’s about how we actively partner with the charity as a local business to do our bit to transform young lives by also giving our time”
The company’s connection to the local community in Kent and Medway is undeniable, with most of their 900 employees based in the county. Recognising the struggles faced by young people, especially during and after the lockdowns, Countrystyle is urging other local businesses to step up and support YLF.
Breaking the Cycle
Tony Godden, Chief Financial Officer at Countrystyle, pointed out the common mission between the business and the charity. “As a business we are always looking to break vicious cycles and create virtuous ones, which is exactly what the YLF is doing every day to support children in care across Kent” he said.
Tony highlighted the critical need for support, explaining that government funding for children in care has decreased in recent years. YLF steps in to fill that gap, working hard to prevent future problems. One in four of the prison population in the UK has been through the care system, but charities like YLF aim to reduce that number by providing the guidance and support these young people need.
A Call to Action for Local Businesses
As Countrystyle encourages other companies in Kent to join us in supporting YLF, it’s clear that this partnership is about more than just business. It’s about investing in young lives, breaking cycles, and creating a better future for the next generation.
To find out more about the Young Lives Foundation or how you can support them, visit their website or contact enquiries@ylf.org.uk.
