The difference you make

Since 2021 We’ve helped 178 young people discover what they’re capable of.

With the support of schools, funders, volunteers and donors, we're helping young people across Yorkshire build confidence, resilience and hope for the future.

Because every young person deserves the opportunity to realise their potential.

The need for our work

Across Leeds, too many young people are growing up without the opportunities and experiences that can open their eyes to what’s possible - making it harder to discover their strengths, realise their potential and imagine a future beyond what they know.

One in three families lives in poverty.
Around 17,500 children and young people are estimated to be experiencing a probable mental health condition.
More than 1,000 young people are not currently in education, employment or training.
Thousands of children need additional educational support to reach their potential.
Basecamp exists to give young people life-changing experiences they might not otherwise have access to.

Our Response

Sources
Leeds City Council: Director of Public Health Annual Report: Children and Young People (2022) - View Report
Leeds Joint Strategic Assessment (2024) - View Report
Leeds Safeguarding Children Partnership - Annual Date Report (2025) - View Report

View Our Annual Report

Support Our Work

For us, success isn't reaching the top of a mountain. It’s seeing a young person believe they can climb it.

Using the Outcomes Shooting Star, we measure success through lasting changes in confidence, communication, contribution, relationships, learning and aspirations for the future.

Learn About Our Approach

Our greatest measurement of success is stories from the people who have experienced Basecamp first hand.

Read Their Stories

The Journey That Was Just What He Needed: Jayden’s Story

“They helped bring him back to his happy self and gave him a new found sense of confidence, and had him doing things I never thought I would see him do!”

Read Jayden's Story
Two Years On: Tom’s Story of Reflection

“The staff on Basecamp are people who I will never forget for the rest of my life. They were very helpful to the team and the children and they always had the best activities in store for us.”

Read Tom's Story
A Parent’s Perspective: Zaina’s Triumph

"In the narrative of Zaina's life, Basecamp played a pivotal role - a place of solace, growth, and friendship"

Read Zaina's Story
From Quiet Beginnings to Unstoppable Confidence: Hannah's Story

“I would say that Basecamp has been a completely life changing experience for me.”

Read Hannah's Story
The Adventure That Changed Me Too: Gilly’s Volunteering Story

"I come ready to give my all, but honestly I get so much more back from the experience. I feel part of something really special."

Read Gilly's Story

our Partner Schools

"Your manner, eye for detail and passion to ensure every child has a voice and an experience that is right for them is crucial to the success. Thank you to the entire team and we look forward to the next adventure!"

— Assistant Headteacher, Partner School
"When my student comes back to school after a Basecamp trip she is always so energised and ready to take on anything! It's been amazing to see how much confidence Basecamp has given her."

— Teacher, Partner School
"It has been so lovely to see how the programme has supported the development of confidence and relationship building. We have seen a notable change in the participants - they are literally standing taller!"

— Headteacher, Partner School
“It’s so apparent that you know the children you work with so well - I think it’s the deeply personal and connected way that you work that sets you apart.”

— Funder