Guidance

Community

Access to community resources

Availability of youth programmes, counselling services, recreational facilities, and other support services provides safe spaces, promotes engagement, and fosters positive development.

Neighbourhood cohesion and safety

Living in communities with strong social bonds, mutual trust, and low levels of crime reduces exposure to harmful influences and increases informal safeguarding.

Positive adult role models outside the family

Mentors, coaches, faith leaders, or community figures can offer guidance, support, and a sense of belonging, especially for children and young people lacking strong family connections.

Community engagement and participation

Opportunities for children and young people to contribute to community activities (e.g. volunteering, youth councils) can build confidence, responsibility, and social connectedness.

Cultural and faith-based support networks

Involvement in cultural or religious communities can provide additional layers of emotional and moral support, especially when inclusive and safeguarding-focused.