Our Story
The Wolfpack Project, a youth charity situated in Nottingham, is dedicated to providing vital support for young individuals aged 16-35 across Nottinghamshire. Our mission centres on delivering assistance for mental health challenges and addressing the pervasive issue of loneliness within this demographic.
Founded in 2019 by Damien Reynolds; The Wolfpack Project was established to combat the substantial, growing issue of youth loneliness as a serious public-health problem of our time. As a result of his own experience of loneliness, Damien set up the charity in his hometown of Nottingham.
Five years on and the charity is growing to meet the need for timely, relevant and accessible support for young people in the city and county.
Damien Reynolds
Founder and Former CEO of The Wolfpack Project
I rarely saw friends or family and found myself becoming less socially active, struggling to meet people and form new friendships. I felt isolated and lonely, and my mental health and confidence suffered as I lacked the ability or willingness to leave the house and connect with others. It was this longing for social and emotional nourishment that inspired me to create The Wolfpack Project, to help others avoid the same loneliness I experienced.
OUR VISION
For young people and adults to become better connected with the community around them, empowered to combat loneliness, broaden their support networks, and establish new friendships.
OUR MISSION
To provide a variety of opportunities for young people to access support that helps reduce barriers they may face around isolation, loneliness or low mental health. Through these opportunities, young people develop meaningful connections, build a sense of community and develop the tools that can help them now and in the future.
OUR VALUES: P.A.C.T
Principled
We respect each other, thrive on diversity, and will always act in the best interests of the communities we serve.
Ambitious
We’re determined to drive change and focus on how we make the most impact. We adapt and always strive for better; pushing ourselves and our boundaries.
Connected
We collaborate internally and externally, to create a fairer society. We listen and share; learning and growing with the expertise of others.
Transparent
We’ll be respectful, open, honest and accountable, and ensure the partners and agencies we work with, share the same approach.
Our Reach
Since launching, The Wolfpack Project has become a vital resource for young people aged 16-35, working tirelessly to combat loneliness and promote positive mental health. Our services span Nottingham city and Nottinghamshire, offering support through a wide range of events, one-to-one sessions, and welcoming social gatherings. In collaboration with local organisations and educational partners, we’ve enhanced our in-person presence, hosting stands and workshops to engage students in meaningful conversations and connect them to our support.
Each connection we make strengthens our community, turning isolation into a network of belonging. With plans to expand further, we’re committed to ensuring that every young person in our growing reach can find the support they need.
%
Of young people who experience a mental health problem aren’t getting the help they need.
Why we are needed more than ever?
Less than 1 in 3 young people with a mental health condition get access to NHS care and treatment
(YoungMinds)
16-24 year olds are the age group most likely to feel lonely often or all the time
(Office of National Statistics)
1/4 students have mental health problems (77% have depression, and 74% have anxiety)
(YouGov)
But there is opportunity to make things better...
58% of young people say they are “more motivated than ever” to work for a positive future
(Coop Foundation)
Almost two thirds of young people (65%) say they are more likely to reach out to friends who they think may need help
(Coop Foundation)
89% of young people have taken an action that has helped to combat their feelings of loneliness
(Coop Foundation)
OUR IMPACT
At The Wolfpack Project, we believe in transparency and accountability in our mission to support the young people of Nottinghamshire. We are proud to present our Impact Report for the year 2022-2023, showcasing the strides we’ve taken in fulfilling our commitment to reducing loneliness and promoting positive mental health among young individuals aged 16-35.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of our activities, accomplishments, and the tangible impact we’ve made within our community. Through a combination of one-to-one support, social groups, events, and more, we have worked tirelessly to create support networks and foster a sense of belonging among isolated young people.
