Growing up isn’t always easy, particularly in these fraught times, but each person pictured here has made a significant improvement to a child’s life — and in the process has improved their own.
They’re part of a charity called The Kids Network, which supports those in London aged between eight and 11 during that tricky transition from primary to secondary school. The youngsters, so-called ‘Little Londoners’, are put forward by their primary schools for a range of reasons, from being disruptive in class to having problems at home.
Adult mentors dedicate three hours every week for a whole year to help children navigate that crucial time — and the effects can be life-changing for kids and grown-ups alike, as these incredible volunteer stories reveal.