Lee’s Story: ‘I want to be life changing to others the way Newcastle United Foundation was to me'

Lee’s turbulent childhood often left him without a safe space to call home. Now 16 and an apprentice with the Foundation, he hopes to help change the lives of other young people.

Lee’s turbulent childhood often left him without a safe space to call home.

He saw the devastating effects of poor mental health on his family and used the wrong crowds for support.

With his own wellbeing deteriorating and school attendance dropping, he was referred to Newcastle United Foundation’s Premier League Kicks Targeted and YOLO programmes to cut his links to local gangs.

Moving into foster care just days before the first national lockdown in 2020, Lee had a fresh start. His relationships flourished with Foundation staff and he returned to school with perfect attendance.

Now 16 and an apprentice with the Foundation, he hopes to help change the lives of other young people.

I would love to meet someone who was in the position I was in and help change their life

- Lee