Breaking the Cycle Programme Shortlisted for Children & Young People Now Awards 2025
We are proud to announce that Breaking the Cycle (BTC), Osmani Trust’s early intervention programme for young people, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Early Intervention category at the prestigious Children & Young People Now Awards 2025. This recognition highlights the impact of our youth violence prevention programme, which supports children and young people through culturally responsive mentoring, early help, and targeted intervention designed to reduce serious youth violence and improve long-term outcomes for young people and families.
A recognised early intervention programme with a strong track record
This latest recognition continues a strong track record for the organisation. In 2023, we were shortlisted for the third consecutive year, highlighting our consistent impact and commitment to supporting young people through early intervention, prevention, and community-based support. Being recognised once again in 2025 reinforces the value and effectiveness of our work with children, young people, and families across the region.
What is Breaking the Cycle?
The Breaking the Cycle programme offers a targeted and culturally responsive approach to help prevent and reduce serious youth violence, primarily working with children aged 10 to 16. Developed and delivered in close partnership with local schools, social services, and youth justice teams, BTC is rooted in early intervention strategies and preventative youth support that respond to the real challenges facing young people today.
By working directly with children at an early stage, the programme aims to reduce risk factors, build positive relationships, and create safer futures for young people who may be vulnerable to exploitation, conflict, or involvement in violence.
How Breaking the Cycle supports young people
Through regular one-to-one mentoring, experiential learning, and engagement with new environments and activities, Breaking the Cycle helps young people to:
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Develop effective conflict resolution skills
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Build emotional resilience
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Learn from lived experiences
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Strengthen their sense of belonging and self-identity
These outcomes sit at the heart of the programme’s approach. By combining trusted mentoring with meaningful experiences, BTC supports young people to make positive choices, develop confidence, and feel more connected to their communities.
A culturally responsive youth violence prevention programme
One of the key strengths of Breaking the Cycle is its culturally responsive model. The programme recognises that effective early intervention for young people must be grounded in trust, lived understanding, and strong relationships with families and local services. This approach helps ensure support is relevant, accessible, and able to meet the needs of young people in a way that is both practical and respectful.
Delivered in partnership with Dream Chaser Youth Club, a trusted community organisation dedicated to empowering young people across the region, the programme reflects the power of collaboration in creating safer pathways for children and young people.
Recognition for meaningful impact in the lives of children and families
“We’re honoured to be recognised for the work we’re doing through Breaking the Cycle,” said a spokesperson for the programme.
“This nomination reflects the resilience and strength of the young people and families we work alongside every day, as well as the importance of culturally competent early intervention in addressing youth violence.”
This recognition is a testament not only to the programme team and partners, but also to the young people and families whose journeys continue to shape and inspire the work.
About the Children & Young People Now Awards 2025
The Children & Young People Now Awards celebrate innovative and impactful work across the UK that is transforming the lives of children, young people, and families. To be shortlisted in the Early Intervention category is a significant achievement and reflects the growing recognition of community-led programmes that tackle issues such as youth violence, exclusion, and vulnerability before they escalate.
Winners will be announced later this year.
For more information and enquiries please contact abdul.hasnath@osmanitrust.org or call 020 7247 8080.
