Statement in response to COVID-19

The EY Foundation has taken clear, immediate action in response to the fast-evolving impact of COVID-19. 

To protect the health of the young people we support, our volunteers, delivery partners and staff, all face-to-face programmes have been postponed until the end of June and our fundraising challenges have been postponed or cancelled over this period. 

Through this difficult time we are listening to the concerns of young people and giving them a voice. To provide support we are innovating by finding alternative ways to help young people from low income backgrounds. We are taking a co-design approach, working with our Youth Advisory Board (YAB) to ensure we respond to the specific needs of young people.

Central to our response is to harness online platforms to help prepare young people for the world of work. Activity will be delivered in partnership with employers and young people, drawing on our experience of bringing both groups together to achieve meaningful impact.

Throughout this extremely challenging period we are working closely with employers to ensure we understand the extra support young people will need following the impact of COVID-19. In addition to looking inwards to adapt our delivery model; we are looking outwards to contribute to the national conversation about the systemic change needed to help young people facing barriers to unlocking their potential.